How many food trucks are in ZIP 49686?

ZIP 49686 has 6 food trucks — a moderate level showing the market is active with room for differentiated concepts.

Is ZIP 49686 a good market for a food truck?

ZIP 49686 scores 56/100 on our food truck opportunity index — a fair market. The score is calculated from walkability, median income, population density, and existing food truck competition.

What is the median household income in ZIP 49686?

The median household income in ZIP 49686 is $71,198, 5% below the national median of $74,580. Moderate incomes support a balance of quality and value-priced menus.

How does food truck competition compare to restaurants in ZIP 49686?

Food trucks are 9.2% of the food service market in ZIP 49686 (6 trucks vs. 59 restaurants). Moderate truck presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Home › Michigan › ZIP 49686

Food Truck Costs Near Traverse City, MI (49686)

Opportunity Score

56 / 100 Fair

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

Market Profile

ZIP 49686 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 49686 is an urban area. with a population of 25,181 and household incomes near the national median ($71,198). With 6 food trucks and 59 restaurants, this is an active food scene.

Area Profile

25,181

Population

$71,198

Median Income

-5% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

Median Age: 47.1 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 34.9% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food Trucks and related businesses in ZIP 49686.

Food Trucks

Moderate — proven market

2.4 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

10.7 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

12.7 per 10K residents

What this means: Food Trucks are 9.2% of the relevant market in ZIP 49686 (6 vs. 59 related businesses). Moderate presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Operating Costs

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

$1,209

Median Gross Rent

$300 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$1.5 M 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.