Pierce County boasts a diversified economy. The deep water Port of Tacoma and our location, convenient to Pacific Rim trade, contributes significantly to the county's position as a major regional trade and service center. The manufacturing sector produces lumber and wood products, chemicals, metals, food, clothing, computer/semiconductor chips and parts, and airplane parts. Agricultural products include berries, lettuce, beans, cabbage and daffodil bulbs, and Pierce County is the number one rhubarb producer in the nation.

Private major employers include MultiCare, Franciscan and Good Samaritan health care facilities, The Boeing Company, Safeway and Fred Meyer stores, Intel Corporation, and Frank Russell Company. Underlying the strong economy is the stabilizing influence of three major military installations: Fort Lewis, McChord Air Force Base and Madigan Army Medical Center (see Military).