Analysis
NAICS 624210 is the 2022 national industry for community food services, part of 62421 (Community Food Services). Census lists 6 example activities under it in the official index.
County Business Patterns counts 5,112 US establishments in this code in 2023, employing 51,810 people at an average annual payroll of $44,860 per employee (13th percentile of national industries). 56% of the establishments have fewer than five employees, which is close to the national mix.
Its index entries, the activities Census uses to assign businesses to this code, include community meals, social services, food banks, food pantries and meal delivery programs, among 6 in all.
Between 2018 and 2023 the number of establishments grew 7% and employment rose 24%. The 2018 count used NAICS 2017, so part of a large move can come from codes being redefined rather than from businesses opening or closing.
Official definition
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in the collection, preparation, and delivery of food for the needy. Establishments in this industry may also distribute clothing and blankets to the poor. These establishments may prepare and deliver meals to persons who by reason of age, disability, or illness are unable to prepare meals for themselves; collect and distribute salvageable or donated food; or prepare and provide meals at fixed or mobile locations. Food banks, meal delivery programs, and soup kitchens are included in this industry.
Source: US Census Bureau, NAICS 2022 Manual.
Index entries (6)
- Community meals, social services
- Food banks
- Food pantries
- Meal delivery programs
- Mobile soup kitchens
- Soup kitchens