Ava is nestled in the heart of the beef producing center of Missouri. Missouri now ranks as second in cattle production with dairy carrying a close second. Agriculture is one of the most important industries in the Ozarks.

Ava also boasts several light industries: The Copeland Scroll Compressors, LLC produces components for scroll compressors, Other major employers are: Heath & Son Feed and Supply, Ava R-I School District, Heart of the Ozarks Health Care Center, Wal-Mart Supercenter, Town & Country Supermarkets, and area restaurants.