Residents fished for whales and operated 125 farms at the end of the 19th century but by the turn of the century, Tisbury had shifted from a maritime to a land economy and were operating a steam corn factory, embossing leather, building harnesses and raising poultry and fruit. By the 1950's, the town had established its modern character, which relies heavily on the servicing of a growing and affluent summer community which continues to build large summer homes on the island. Fishing and farming are still carried on to a lesser degree. Oak Bluffs on the east and south, and West Tisbury on the west. It includes both subsidized affordable units and market rate units in certain eligible subsidized developments.
Ferry service is the vital link to and from the Island.
The Woods Hole, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority provides year-round ferry service. The principal highways are State Road and the Edgartown Vineyard Haven Road. There is no freight or passenger rail service on Martha's Vineyard. The MVTA provides paratransit services to the elderly and disabled, primarily through Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands. Island Transport provides fixed route bus service to other towns on the island during the tourist season.