The town, while still small, has grown in recent years. Due to its proximity to private game reserves and the Kruger National Park,eco-tourism is a major contributor to the local economy.
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre engages in research and breeding of endangered species, notably cheetah, African wild dog and black-footed cat.
Hoedspruit Air Force Base is a significant contributor to the local economy. The civil Eastgate Airport, which shares the Air Force base's airfield is, as of February 2012, served by South African Express, several charter operators as well as general aviation
