Traditionally, the villagers imported grain from Bern and raised cattle on the valley floor and in seasonal alpine herding camps. Beginning in the 18th century, they began breeding and milking Simmental cattle, which became major exports from the municipality. During the 18th and 19th century coal mines at Walopalp provided another source of income. There was also some trade over the Jaun Pass. The construction of the Simmental road in 1815-28 and the Jaun Pass road in 1872-75 expanded trade in the village and allowed it to grow. The construction of the Erlenbach-Zweisimmen railway in 1902 made it easier to reach villages and allowed them to grow further. Unlike some communities in the Oberland, tourism never developed into a major industry. In 1990 about one-third of the jobs in the services sector, while 44% of the jobs are in agriculture.