- Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cash crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat.
- Fishing, especially cod and mackerel fishing.
- Shipbuilding, which was spurred by the need for vessels for fishing, trade, and transportation.
- Trade, both domestic and international, was essential for the colonies' economies. Major trading ports included Boston, Salem, and Newport.
- Timber, which was used for shipbuilding, construction, and other purposes.