With a population of 43000, Lismore consists of a commercial town centre surrounded by outer lying properties.

During the first half of the 20th century, the dairy industry predominated in the region. However by the late 1960's the industry was finding the going tough, and many of the smaller farms were sold or amalgamated or turned over to production of cattle or other produce, such as macadamia nut.

At present Lismore is seen as the tourist gateway to the region's National Parks and neighbouring villages such as Nimbin and The Channon.