Post-colonial architecture may be seen in the inner part of Sacaba; however, some has been destroyed due to lack of municipal care.

Sacaba was the site of anti-coca eradication riots in 2002, which caused the removal of Evo Morales, leader of the cocalero movement and the MAS, from his seat in the Bolivian congress.

Morales opposed the closing of a coca market in Sacaba, and ensuing protests involved the death of several people on both sides.

Sacaba is a culinary capital in Cochabamba, famous for its delicacies such as cuy and other gastronomical offerings.

Local industries include raw food, cereal production, shoe factories, among others.