An interesting trend of the times is the rapidly growing number of people who operate businesses out of their homes, a return to the days of cottage industry. Oakhurst has two major shopping centers. One anchored by Raley's Superstore and the other by Vons and Longs. A third center is currently in the works. A tribute to the healthy local economy.
Unionization is minimal.
The labor force for all Madera County has been estimated at 44,275. The estimated total employment is 37,325. The labor market area, as well as the area of employment, extends beyond Eastern Madera County into Mariposa County, Yosemite National Park and the cities of Madera and Fresno. Its two incorporated cities are Madera, the county seat, with 30,000 population, and Chowchilla, at 6,200. The Eastern Madera County area and other unincorporated communities are governed by the five-member Board of Supervisors, with the Oakhurst area having one supervisor.