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Daycare Centers Market: ZIP 98116

Opportunity Score

82 / 100 Excellent

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

Market Summary

ZIP 98116 is an urban area with moderate foot traffic. with a population of 28,091 and household incomes well above the national median ($130,504). There are 14 daycare centers operations in ZIP 98116.

Area Profile

28,091

Population

$130,504

Median Income

+75% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

14.2/20

Foot Traffic

Very Car-Dependent

Median Age: 40.5 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 54.6% — strong appetite for artisan/specialty food.

Competition

Daycare Centers and related businesses in ZIP 98116.

Daycare Centers

Moderate — proven market

5.0 per 10K residents

Schools

1.1 per 10K residents

What this means: Daycare Centers are 82.4% of the relevant market in ZIP 98116 (14 vs. 3 related businesses). Well-established market — differentiation is non-negotiable.

Operating Costs

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

$2,680

2BR Fair Market Rent

$2,033

Median Gross Rent

$920 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$1.5 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 $130,504. That gives you pricing room most markets don't offer. Don't underprice.