VetCostCalc
Showing results for ZIP 68853 (NE)
Home ZIP 50173

Veterinary Practices Market: ZIP 50173

Opportunity Score
36 / 100 Challenging
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.

Market Summary

ZIP 50173 is an rural area. with a population of 640 and household incomes above the national median ($82,188).

Area Profile

640
Population
$82,188
Median Income
+10% vs. national
Rural
Area Type
Median Age: 49.0 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.
College-Educated: 19.2% — value-focused market, keep prices competitive.

Operating Costs

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

$1,150
2BR Fair Market Rent
$1,104
Median Gross Rent
$210 K
Median Home Value

Tips for Starting a Veterinary Business in Iowa

  • A veterinary practice costs $500K-$1.5M to start from scratch. Most new vets buy into existing practices or start mobile to reduce overhead.
  • DEA registration, state veterinary license, and controlled substance permits all take time. Start applications 6 months before your target opening.
  • Pet ownership rates vary by ZIP. Suburban areas with single-family homes consistently outperform dense urban cores for vet visit volume.
  • Emergency and after-hours services command 2-3x standard pricing. Even offering limited emergency hours gives you a revenue edge in most markets.
  • This is a rural ZIP. Your customer radius is wider, marketing costs are lower, but you'll work harder for each lead.

Data sources

U.S. Census Bureau (ACS, ZBP) · HUD Fair Market Rents · EPA Walkability Index · USDA RUCA · IRS SOI · FDIC Summary of Deposits