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Home Mississippi ZIP 38863

Food Truck Market: ZIP 38863

Opportunity Score
40 / 100 Fair
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and food truck competition.

Market Profile

ZIP 38863 is a car-dependent rural area — 5.5/20 on the EPA walkability index, 5.0 points below the national average. Population sits at 19,046. Street corners won't work here. Operators who survive in markets like this run catering contracts, brewery residencies, and corporate campus routes. Walk-up customers are a bonus, not a revenue plan.

Market Summary

ZIP 38863 is an rural area with low foot traffic. with a population of 19,046 and household incomes below the national median ($49,528). The area has 27 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

19,046
Population
$49,528
Median Income
-34% vs. national
Rural
Area Type
5.5/20
Foot Traffic
Very Car-Dependent
Median Age: 37.9 — mixed-age market, broad menu appeal.
College-Educated: 13.9% — value-focused market, keep prices competitive.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 38863.

3
Food Trucks
Low competition — room to establish
1.6 per 10K residents
9
Sit-Down Restaurants
4.7 per 10K residents
18
Fast Food / Counter
9.5 per 10K residents
What this means: Food trucks are 10.0% of the food scene here (3 trucks vs. 27 restaurants). Well-established truck culture — you'll need a strong concept to stand out.

Operating Costs

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

$864
Median Gross Rent
$160 K
Median Home Value
7
Bank Branches
$590 K deposits

What to Expect Here

Go Where the Crowd Is

Low walkability means foot traffic isn't your friend. Farmers markets, corporate campuses, breweries with food programs, and private events are your revenue base. Get on Roaming Hunger or a local catering platform before you open.

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 $49,528.

Low Competition, Proven Demand

Only 3 food trucks registered here against 27 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.

Data sources

U.S. Census Bureau (ACS, ZBP) · HUD Fair Market Rents · EPA Walkability Index · USDA RUCA · IRS SOI · FDIC Summary of Deposits