The greater city area of Klerksdorp today incorporates the towns of Orkney, Kanana, Stilfontein, Khuma, Hartbeesfontein and Tigane to give it a population of more than 350,000 inhabitants (Census Statistics South Africa 2001). Together with Rustenburg, Klerksdorp forms the economic heart of North West Province. It is still one of the hubs of the South African gold mining industry , although its importance has been decreasing in recent years. A major earthquake in March 2005 caused significant damage to the eastern suburb of Stilfontein and caused widespread damage to the mining activities in that part of the city. In addition, it is also expected to be a large uranium producer in the future. Apart from mining activities, Klerksdorp is also positioned as a notable medical, retail and education centre for North West Province and Northern Free State.

The Klerksdorp district is also a major player in South African agriculture; important crops that are farmed in the district include maize, sorghum, groundnuts and sunflowers. Klerksdorp has the largest agricultural company in the southern hemisphere, Senwes.

The district is also known for its Sussex cattle herds - the city is the headquarters of the South African Sussex Cattle Breeders Association.