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Food Truck Market: ZIP 98502

Opportunity Score

62 / 100 Good

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

Market Profile

ZIP 98502 sits in the above-average walkability at 13.5/20 on the EPA index. Median income runs 24% above the national median — $92,207 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 98502 is an urban area with moderate foot traffic. with a population of 35,398 and household incomes above the national median ($92,207). The area has 57 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

35,398

Population

$92,207

Median Income

+24% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

13.5/20

Foot Traffic

Walkable

Median Age: 40.6 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 37.8% — balanced market for quality & value.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 98502.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

0.8 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

7.9 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

8.2 per 10K residents

What this means: Food trucks are 5.0% of the food scene here (3 trucks vs. 57 restaurants). Moderate truck presence — demand is proven but not saturated.

Operating Costs

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

$1,689

Median Gross Rent

$540 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$1.1 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 3 food trucks registered here against 57 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.