Is ZIP 49685 a good market for a food truck?

ZIP 49685 scores 80/100 on our food truck opportunity index — a excellent market. The score is calculated from walkability, median income, population density, and existing food truck competition.

What is the median household income in ZIP 49685?

The median household income in ZIP 49685 is $82,639, 11% above the national median of $74,580. Higher incomes support premium pricing and specialty food concepts.

Home › Michigan › ZIP 49685

Food Truck Costs Near Traverse City, MI (49685)

Opportunity Score

80 / 100 Excellent

Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.

Market Profile

ZIP 49685 is a car-dependent urban area. Walkability scores low — below the national average of 10.5. Most customers arrive by vehicle, so parking access matters more than foot traffic. Event catering and business park lunch routes outperform traditional street corners here.

Market Summary

ZIP 49685 is an urban area. with a population of 21,297 and household incomes above the national median ($82,639). There are 5 restaurants here but no registered food trucks — an untapped market with proven dining demand.

Area Profile

21,297

Population

$82,639

Median Income

+11% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

Median Age: 39.6 — mixed-age market, broad menu appeal.

College-Educated: 26.7% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food Trucks and related businesses in ZIP 49685.

Fast Food / Counter

2.3 per 10K residents

Operating Costs

Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.

$1,338

Median Gross Rent

$310 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$120 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.