Daycare Centers Market: ZIP 98278
Opportunity Score
60
/ 100
Good
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.
Market Summary
ZIP 98278 is an suburban area with moderate foot traffic.
Area Profile
2,178
Population
Suburban
Area Type
13.0/20
Foot Traffic
Walkable
Median Age: 22.0 —
young market, strong street food demand.
College-Educated: 1.5% —
value-focused market, keep prices competitive.
Operating Costs
Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.
$1,500
2BR Fair Market Rent
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.
Quick Facts
- Area Type
- Suburban
- Foot Traffic
- Walkable
vs. National Average
Walkability
+2.5 pts vs. national avg
Nearby Markets
Check Another Market
Or estimate costs with the DaycareCalc calculator.
About This Data
Data sources
U.S. Census Bureau (ACS, ZBP) · HUD Fair Market Rents · EPA Walkability Index · USDA RUCA · IRS SOI · FDIC Summary of Deposits