How many food trucks are in ZIP 95521?

ZIP 95521 has 7 food trucks — a moderate level showing the market is active with room for differentiated concepts.

Is ZIP 95521 a good market for a food truck?

ZIP 95521 scores 52/100 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 95521?

The median household income in ZIP 95521 is $54,324, 27% 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 95521?

Food trucks are 10.4% of the food service market in ZIP 95521 (7 trucks vs. 60 restaurants). Well-established truck culture — differentiation is non-negotiable.

Home › California › ZIP 95521

Food Truck Costs Near Arcata, CA (95521)

Opportunity Score

52 / 100 Fair

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

Market Profile

ZIP 95521 is a car-dependent suburban market. 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 95521 is an suburban area. with a population of 21,684 and household incomes near the national median ($54,324). With 7 food trucks and 60 restaurants, this is an active food scene.

Area Profile

21,684

Population

$54,324

Median Income

-27% vs. national

Suburban

Area Type

Median Age: 29.2 — young market, strong street food demand.

College-Educated: 26.4% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food Trucks and related businesses in ZIP 95521.

Food Trucks

Moderate — proven market

3.2 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

17.1 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

10.6 per 10K residents

What this means: Food Trucks are 10.4% of the relevant market in ZIP 95521 (7 vs. 60 related businesses). Well-established market — differentiation is non-negotiable.

Operating Costs

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

$1,300

Median Gross Rent

$480 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$560 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 $54,324.