Many people of the Caucasus region are also involved in breeding fowl, raising fish, keeping bees, and making wine. Cattle breeding is another important aspect of the Abaza economy. Nine out of ten Abaza live in rural areas. They live in small, isolated settlements high in the Caucasus Mountains, in the upper reaches of several river valleys. Their houses are typically built of brick or concrete and have either one or two stories.
Most homes have verandahs and balconies, where families enjoy spending time during good weather.
Most Abaza women marry while they are in their early twenties, but men often wait until they are in their thirties or even forties. In the past, marriages were arranged, but today, the Abaza are free to choose their own mates. Occasionally, a young woman will agree to a marriage, but her parents will not. Whether or not the bride was abducted, her family does not attend the wedding. She is required to stand silent and secluded while her husband and his family feast and celebrate.