This paper aims to promote the application of local resonance in ultrasonic-assisted machining and realize active and controllable manufacturing. From the phenomenon of local resonance in ultrasonic-assisted machining, the authors discuss its mechanism and introduce other theories based on local resonance. Simultaneously, the application of local resonance in simple and complex systems, and the non-resonant design theory applied in ultrasonic gear machining and ultrasonic-assisted grinding are discussed respectively. Then the stability of ultrasonic vibration based on local resonance theory is also discussed. Furthermore, the development trends and the noteworthy issues of local resonance are prospected on account of its advantages in order to provide reference for it development.