As the second-largest city in Whatcom County, Lynden has served for years as the economic hub for north-county residents. More than 10,000 residents, plus many more within a 10-mile radius, find almost all of the products and services they need in Lynden. A vibrant downtown and several shopping centers highlight the retail sector.

In the midst of many farms, Lynden is the center for many agricultural products and services. Led by dairy and berry farms, agriculture has an annual economic impact of $1 billion in Whatcom County.

Lynden's steady growth in the last 20 years (13 percent in population since just 2000) also has fueled a healthy construction industry.

Tourism is another important aspect of Lynden's economy, providing thousands of customers for retailers and restaurants. The Northwest Washington Fair draws about 200,000 people annually. Planning already has started in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C., just 45 miles north of Lynden.