Älvsbyn, called “Norrbotten’s Pearl”, is situated in an area rich in natural beauty. At the western edge of the municipality lies Storforsen Falls, a popular spot for overnight stays, picnics and fishing.

After the falls, the Pite River runs east through the municipality. Large and small lakes may be found along both sides of the Pite River. Scenic spots are to be found throughout the region. While the community is noted for its natural features, urban areas are within an hour’s drive in the communities of Boden, Luleå and Piteå.
Älvsbyn is well-known in Sweden for its two largest businesses, Älvsbyhus AB and Polarbageriet AB. Älvsbyhus manufactures pre-fabricated homes and exports its products to several countries in Europe. Polarbageriet is a baking company that specializes in the production of traditional regional breads. The company has actively expanded its operations and now is exporting products to other European countries. A newer company, Försvarets Materialverk has a research facility in the area that is working on high technology applications in the building industry.
A high percentage of students from secondary schools go on to higher education programs within 3 years of graduation; an indicator of local interest in technology and applications. The local climate is quite cold in winter and it can last from 5 to 6 months. The terrain is ideal for testing of automobile and automotive components in extreme cold weather conditions. Along with its technically skilled population, the area’s natural features make it an ideal site for winter automotive and automotive component testing. Local government is interested in working with testing operations in the development of testing sites and programmes.