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Food Truck Market: ZIP 98501

Opportunity Score

62 / 100 Good

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

Market Profile

ZIP 98501 sits in the above-average walkability at 10.6/20 on the EPA index. Median income runs 30% above the national median — $97,198 vs. $74,580 nationally. High foot traffic and real purchasing power make this one of the stronger food truck markets in the country. The tradeoff: commissary kitchen rates and permit fees are elevated to match.

Market Summary

ZIP 98501 is an urban area with moderate foot traffic. with a population of 48,067 and household incomes above the national median ($97,198). The area has 106 restaurants and just 5 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

48,067

Population

$97,198

Median Income

+30% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

10.6/20

Foot Traffic

Walkable

Median Age: 39.5 — mixed-age market, broad menu appeal.

College-Educated: 36.1% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 98501.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

1.0 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

13.3 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

8.7 per 10K residents

What this means: Food trucks are 4.5% of the food scene here (5 trucks vs. 106 restaurants). Moderate truck presence — demand is proven but not saturated.

Operating Costs

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

$1,697

Median Gross Rent

$530 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$1.5 M deposits

What to Expect Here

Fixed Location Beats Roaming

High-foot-traffic areas reward consistency. If you can secure a recurring spot near offices or transit stops, build your weekly schedule around it. Regular customers drive more revenue than novelty seekers.

Low Competition, Proven Demand

Only 5 food trucks registered here against 106 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.