Solar Installers Market: ZIP 98394
Opportunity Score
24
/ 100
Challenging
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.
Market Summary
ZIP 98394 is an urban area with low foot traffic. with a population of 1,036 and household incomes below the national median ($46,792).
Area Profile
1,036
Population
$46,792
Median Income
-37% vs. national
Urban
Area Type
5.7/20
Foot Traffic
Very Car-Dependent
Median Age: 44.3 —
older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.
College-Educated: 17.8% —
value-focused market, keep prices competitive.
Operating Costs
Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.
$1,820
2BR Fair Market Rent
$869
Median Gross Rent
$470 K
Median Home Value
Tips for Starting a Solar Business in Washington
- The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is the single biggest factor in your customers' buying decisions. Know the current rate and expiration timeline cold.
- Become a certified installer for at least two major panel manufacturers. Certification unlocks better wholesale pricing and warranty terms.
- Permitting and interconnection timelines vary wildly by utility. In some territories it takes 2 weeks. In others, 6 months. Map this before you set customer expectations.
- Roof condition kills more solar deals than price objections. Partner with a roofer or learn to assess roof life remaining.
Quick Facts
- Area Type
- Urban
- Foot Traffic
- Very Car-Dependent
vs. National Average
Median Income
-37% vs. $74,580
Walkability
-4.8 pts vs. national avg
Nearby Markets
98349
4.1 mi
Pop: 5,021
$84,282
98329
4.2 mi
Pop: 11,379
$107,675
Walk: 6.5
98524
4.5 mi
Pop: 4,585
$108,526
98351
8.4 mi
Pop: 1,832
$145,613
98546
8.6 mi
Pop: 2,288
$96,964
98388
10.6 mi
Pop: 7,054
$97,634
Walk: 6.7
98333
10.8 mi
Pop: 3,365
$172,917
Walk: 5.0
98528
11.4 mi
Pop: 12,398
$85,571
Walk: 2.9
Check Another Market
Or estimate costs with the SolarBreakeven 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