San Fernando is called Trinidad and Tobago's "industrial capital" because of its proximity to the Pointe-à-Pierre oil refinery and many other petrochemical, LNG, iron and steel and aluminium smelters in places such as Point Lisas in Couva, Point Fortin, and La Brea.

Several mansions on the pinnacle of Alexander Hill house belong to some of the more prominent San Fernandian families.

Although the city does not technically qualify as having a true dry season, there is a noticeably drier stretch from February to April.

It is considered the main trauma unit for the southern part of the island, and is administered by the Southwest Regional Health Authority (SWRHA).

There are numerous health centres in towns and villages around San Fernando that are considered to be part of the urban area.

The water taxi service links San Fernando to Port of Spain via sea in approximately 1 hour.