The town is the capital of Ambilobe district, and according to 2018 census the population was approximately 62,346.

In addition to primary schooling the town offers secondary education at both junior and senior levels.

Farming and raising livestock provides employment for 40% and 35% of the working population.

In Ambilobe is found the largest sugar mill of Madagascar (Sucoma) that produced 61.714 tons in 2018/2019.

[6] In the village of Sangaloka that belongs to the municipality of Ambilobe, the main activity is the manufacture of ceramics.