Wolfsberg is the capital of a political district of the same name with its own local authority, constabulary, registry office, hospital and forty sub-districts. There are a wide range of schools, cultural and sports facilities and numerous visitor attractions.

The town lies between the Koralpe and Saualm mountains in the central Lavant Valley (Lavanttal). It has been a major trading centre and transportation hub since the Middle Ages.

Today, business life is largely shaped by the numerous industrial and commercial enterprises headquartered in Wolfsberg. Many of them are well-known both nationally and internationally.

Tourism is also an increasingly important economic factor. Excellent cafés and restaurants are joined by 142 hotels and guesthouses with some 2,000 beds in total. The district also boasts a wealth of cultural, sporting and leisure facilities.