Situated at a high elevation relative to the surrounding landscape, the Town of Redcliff offers views of the South Saskatchewan River valley, the City of Medicine Hat, and Cypress Hills.

This drew industries that manufactured diverse products such as shoes, gloves, cigars, trucks, bricks, glass, and flour among others.

On June 25, 1915, a violent F4 tornado (at the time called a cyclone) ravaged several of these businesses, thus starting a decline in Redcliff's economy.

The primary industries that support the local economy relate to oil and gas and the climate of southern Alberta.

Numerous businesses in Redcliff and area provide drilling and pipeline services to support the oil and gas industry.

The area's sunny climate and abundance of affordable natural gas reserves has contributed to the establishment of a sizable greenhouse industry.