The economy of Burwash Landing is essentially a traditional subsistence economy; hunting and fishing supply about 60 to 80 percent of the residents' food needs. Another traditional activity, trapping, has declined due to low fur prices.
The First Nation administration provides most employment. The Kluane First Nation also owns the Dalan campground. Much employment is seasonal and depends on the tourist and construction season. Some people find work in the summer providing services to tourists visiting Kluane National Park or travelling the Alaska Highway. The Kluane Museum of Natural History is the community's best-known tourist attraction and a source of some summer employment. It features an excellent wildlife display, fossils, and a gift shop with a large selection of local First Nation handicrafts. A resort/hotel, restaurant and store in the area offer services for travelers.
The school and community health centre provide some employment at Destruction Bay. In addition, there are services for travelers on the Highway. The Yukon government highway maintenance camp employs people year-round.
Although the Alaska Highway is open year-round, traffic drops off outside the prime tourist season and some businesses close from October to May.
Many people move away from Burwash Landing in order to look for work or to continue their education.
