The town of Lincolnton anchors this county. With the advantage of its location along the Catawba River, Lincoln Country was the site of the first textile mill in North Carolina. A rich history of cotton processing followed. Today, the area’s business makeup has changed, now touting progressive industries from machinery, fabricated metal, and chemical among its major businesses.

With quick access to major Interstates 85 and 40, and boasting the IPJ Airport, access is an important pull factor. The Lincolnton/Lincoln County Airport is located off NC Highway 73. Not too far southeast, by about 45 minutes, is Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.

Lincolnton Gaston College offers a Lincolnton community college campus in the county.