[citation needed] With the construction of the toll-road joining Carcassonne to Perpignan via Narbonne, the town has moved away from production towards eco-tourism, tourism and outdoor pursuits such as rambling, biking, kayaking, rafting and walking.

[citation needed] The town and surrounding villages are largely agricultural, producing milk, grapes, wine (including the Blanquette de Limoux), wheat, sunflowers, eggs and meat from poultry and cows.

In the last few years, tourism has increased and during the warmer months many tourists flock to Quillan and its surroundings for outdoor activities, cultural events, and restaurants.

Each August there is a week of the Folklore Festival where dancers, musicians and singers from 10 or 12 different countries perform during the day and evening on the town square of Quillan.

It is popular for whitewater rafting, canoeing, fishing and kayaking on the river Aude and other outdoor activities including cycling, hiking and running.