Garden City continues to work to enhance its standing as the regional hub of western Kansas. The community is home to several financial institutions, medical facilities, and retail shopping areas. However, with several feedlots, fields, and grain elevators throughout the county, the local economy remains driven largely by agriculture. The main employers in Finney County are Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., USD 457, St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City Community College, and Finney County.
With more than 20 languages spoken in the local school system, Garden City’s diverse culture makes it a unique place to live, work and play. Garden City is home to Lee Richardson Zoo, the largest zoological park in western Kansas. It is also home to two regulation golf courses, a nationally recognized community college, and The Big Pool.
Incorporated in 1883, Garden City currently occupies 10.8 square miles in southwest Kansas and serves a population of 30,948 people. Garden City’s average age is 31 while the average household size is 2.88 people. The region’s trade area has a population of more than 190,000 people.