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Daycare Centers Market: ZIP 98020

Opportunity Score

68 / 100 Good

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

Market Summary

ZIP 98020 is an urban area with low foot traffic. with a population of 19,064 and household incomes well above the national median ($122,243). There are 9 daycare centers operations in ZIP 98020.

Area Profile

19,064

Population

$122,243

Median Income

+64% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

6.8/20

Foot Traffic

Car-Dependent

Median Age: 51.2 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 48.4% — strong appetite for artisan/specialty food.

Competition

Daycare Centers and related businesses in ZIP 98020.

Daycare Centers

Moderate — proven market

4.7 per 10K residents

Schools

1.6 per 10K residents

What this means: Daycare Centers are 75.0% of the relevant market in ZIP 98020 (9 vs. 3 related businesses). Well-established market — differentiation is non-negotiable.

Operating Costs

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

$2,600

2BR Fair Market Rent

$1,894

Median Gross Rent

$960 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$1.2 M deposits

Tips for Starting a Daycare Business in Washington

Licensing comes first. State childcare licensing takes 3-6 months in most states. Start that paperwork before you sign a lease.
Staff-to-child ratios are set by law and they dictate your entire cost structure. Know your state's ratios before building a financial model.
Location matters more than marketing. Parents pick daycares within 10 minutes of home or work. Proximity to commuter routes beats a nice website.
Insurance costs $3,000-$10,000/year depending on your state and capacity. Get quotes early. Some carriers won't cover home-based operations.
The median income here is $122,243. That gives you pricing room most markets don't offer. Don't underprice.