It is a typical small agricultural community in the grain-growing region of Southern Saskatchewan.

Wheat, barley, canola, alfalfa, hay, flax, oats, rye, and specialty crops are grown in the area.

Hanley has no industries but there is a school, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police depot, churches, post office, and some businesses.

Hanley's population is growing with a number of young families relocating in the past few years.

Although there are no longer grain elevators, train station or loading platforms, the Canadian National's Saskatoon/Regina railway still passes through the community.

Rail cars can be seen sitting waiting to be loaded with grain in the fall and spring.