Much of the Whidbey Island economy consists of service businesses and small storefronts in local communities. Home based and cottage industries are an appropriate low-impact fit for the rural community of Central Whidbey that is being preserved.
Tourism and agriculture continue to be an important part of the Island economy. Whidbey Island Naval Air Station has a strong presence as the largest employer with approximately 10,000 active duty and civilian personnel. The Oak Harbor School District, Whidbey General Hospital, City of Oak Harbor and Island County employ approximately 2000 people, according to current information from the Island County Economic Development Council.
The largest private employer on the Island is Wal-Mart. Other significant private employers include Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, Whidbey Island Bank and Upchurch Scientific.
The Penn Cove Shellfish Farm harvests mussels for shipment all over the United States . For more information about this amazing farm on the waters of Penn Cove go to Penn Cove Shellfish.com
Only 7% of all Island County businesses have more than 20 employees. 70% of the total businesses employ four or less people. The remainder of the work force is employed by service, manufacturing, construction, and retail trade industries.
Whidbey Island is a bedroom community for hundreds of workers who commute to larger cities nearby, with many using free public transportation and the ferry system to reach off-island jobs.