During this period many immigrant labourers settled here; for the iron works and dynamite factory of Baracaldo prospered greatly, owing to the increased output of the Biscayan mines, the extension of railways in the neighbourhood, and the growth of shipping at Bilbao.

In recent decades, the industrial zones surrounding Barakaldo have become less prominent, which can be owed to the shuttering of large companies such as Babcock & Wilcox.

Although several factories remain, areas that were once industrial have been redeveloped into residential properties such as malls and parks.

A boat ferry service connects Barakaldo to the other side of the Estuary of Bilbao in Erandio.

[citation needed] Tourists visit sites in Barakaldo such as the Botanic Garden, the Bilbao Exhibition Centre, the medieval Bridge of Castrexana, and some of the city's street sculptures.

[5] In July, the town celebrates "Las Fiestas del Carmen," which includes open-air concerts and large fairs.

Local league teams include Gurutzeta KFT, UD Burtzeña, Pauldarrak FKT, Zuazo C.F.