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Food Truck Market: ZIP 38118

Opportunity Score

59 / 100 Fair

Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and food truck competition.

Market Profile

ZIP 38118 scores 11.9/20 for walkability — foot traffic is there. Income levels run 42% below the national average though, which puts real pressure on menu pricing. Value-forward concepts outperform premium ones in markets like this. Customers in this ZIP are price-conscious. That's not a reason to avoid it — it's a reason to price correctly from day one.

Market Summary

ZIP 38118 is an urban area with moderate foot traffic. with a population of 39,107 and household incomes below the national median ($43,446). There are 46 restaurants here but no registered food trucks — an untapped market with proven dining demand.

Area Profile

39,107

Population

$43,446

Median Income

-42% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

11.9/20

Foot Traffic

Walkable

Median Age: 29.1 — young market, strong street food demand.

College-Educated: 7.0% — value-focused market, keep prices competitive.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 38118.

Sit-Down Restaurants

2.3 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

9.5 per 10K residents

Operating Costs

Local cost levels affect commissary kitchen rates, permits, and event vendor pricing.

$1,181

Median Gross Rent

$110 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$220 K deposits

What to Expect Here

Fixed Location Beats Roaming

High-foot-traffic areas reward consistency. If you can secure a recurring spot near offices or transit stops, build your weekly schedule around it. Regular customers drive more revenue than novelty seekers.

Price for the Market

This is a price-sensitive ZIP. Operators who succeed here lead with value — generous portions, clear value signals, combo deals. A $15 entrée is a hard sell when the median income is $43,446.

Young Market Dynamics

Median age under 32 and solid walkability is a good combination for street food. Late lunch and post-work hours tend to outperform breakfast in younger markets. Social media discovery works here too.