Garden City, Idaho began as an agricultural area cultivated by Chinese immigrants, with its main thoroughfare, Chinden Boulevard, named as a combination of "China" and "garden." This city of about 11,000 residents has transformed into an arts destination, with the Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District hosting numerous galleries and studios while maintaining its character despite being nearly surrounded by Boise.

Renters in Garden City find a mix of small apartment communities and single-family homes across its compact 4.28 square miles. The rental market features average one-bedroom apartments at $2,023 monthly, slightly higher than neighboring Boise and Meridian, reflecting the area's desirability. The Boise River Greenbelt forms the southern boundary of Garden City, offering miles of paved trails for cycling, running, and walking, plus access to several riverside parks.

Minutes from downtown Boise, Garden City offers easy access to both cities' amenities while maintaining its own identity through areas like 34th Street Market District and Veterans Memorial Parkway corridor. The Western Idaho Fairgrounds hosts major events like the Western Idaho Fair and the Boise Music Festival, adding entertainment options to the local scene. With portions of the city served by the Boise and Garden City school districts, this riverside community combines arts, outdoor recreation, and convenient urban access in a less densely populated setting than downtown Boise.