It has approximately 1400 inhabitants, and is an important fishing area with J.M.Johansen and Lofoten trawl fishing the most important companies. Lofoten trawl fishing is the largest trawling industry in Nord-Norge. J.M.Johansen is a traditional company which today works with fillet production.

Stamsund has a rich cultural life with two free theatre groups, Nordland puppet theatre, and many artists.

The acclaimed Hurtigruten Coastal Express service makes a regular stop at the Stamsund dock, southbound from Svolvær and northbound from Bodø.