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Food Truck Market: ZIP 51544

Opportunity Score

23 / 100 Challenging

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

Market Profile

ZIP 51544 is a car-dependent rural area — 5.5/20 on the EPA walkability index, 5.0 points below the national average. Population sits at 843. 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 51544 is an rural area with low foot traffic. with a population of 843 and household incomes below the national median ($48,750).

Area Profile

843

Population

$48,750

Median Income

-35% vs. national

Rural

Area Type

5.5/20

Foot Traffic

Very Car-Dependent

Median Age: 41.5 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 8.3% — value-focused market, keep prices competitive.

Operating Costs

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

$1,060

2BR Fair Market Rent

$597

Median Gross Rent

$85 K

Median Home Value

Commissary estimate: This is a moderate-cost area. Monthly commissary kitchen rentals typically run $130–$330 in markets like this.

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 $48,750.