A set of families make up a tukhum , a group of related families who trace their descent through a common male ancestor. Marriage within the tukhum is common, and the ideal age of marriage is 17 for women and 25 for men. Traditionally, the Darghinian relied mostly on stock breeding as their livelihood, but today, agriculture is the main source of income. Living in such different zones as the foothills and mountain zones, the practices and techniques of cultivation vary between the lowland and the highland farmers. The lowland farmers mainly produce wheat, whereas the highland farmers rely on barley, rye, maize, and legumes.
Agricultural labor is done by men in the lowlands and by women in the highlands.
The Darghinian staples are grain, dairy products, meat, vegetables, fruits, greens, and berries. During the Soviet rule, Russian and European dishes became more popular, and the use of canned and commercially prepared foods increased. The most developed crafts of the Darghinian are wool products, metal items, and wood works. Leather, pottery, and tapestries are also important products. The Darghinian are especially known for their expertise in making weapons.