Clarkston's economy is highly localized and distinctively international. Unlike traditional American suburbs dominated by big-box retail, Clarkston's commercial corridors are filled with small, immigrant-owned businesses. Median household income in the city tends to be lower than the national and state averages, largely reflecting the transitional economic status of newly arrived refugees.
The economy is deeply intertwined with the nonprofit sector. A significant amount of local employment and economic activity is driven by social services, NGOs, and resettlement agencies. Despite historical economic challenges, the city's unique cultural landscape has turned it into a niche destination for food and culture, which local leaders are increasingly looking to leverage for economic development and tourism.