How many food trucks are in ZIP 50014?

There are 3 food trucks registered in ZIP 50014. Competition is low, which is a favorable signal for operators entering this market.

Is ZIP 50014 a good market for a food truck?

ZIP 50014 scores 48/100 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 50014?

The median household income in ZIP 50014 is $57,372, 23% 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 50014?

Food trucks are 7.9% of the food service market in ZIP 50014 (3 trucks vs. 35 restaurants). Moderate truck presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Home › Iowa › ZIP 50014

Food Truck Costs Near Ames, IA (50014)

Opportunity Score

48 / 100 Fair

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

Market Profile

ZIP 50014 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 50014 is an urban area. with a population of 31,429 and household incomes near the national median ($57,372). The area has 35 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

31,429

Population

$57,372

Median Income

-23% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

Median Age: 23.2 — young market, strong street food demand.

College-Educated: 31.3% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food Trucks and related businesses in ZIP 50014.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

1.0 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

4.1 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

7.0 per 10K residents

What this means: Food Trucks are 7.9% of the relevant market in ZIP 50014 (3 vs. 35 related businesses). Moderate presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Operating Costs

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

$1,083

Median Gross Rent

$310 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$330 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 $57,372.

Low Competition, Proven Demand

Only 3 food trucks registered here against 35 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.