Where is the best place to live in Israel?
Finding the perfect home is a combination of so many factors. Our guide to Israel’s residential scene is here to help you figure out where to start looking. As with most things, the right area is not one size fits all, so we’ve divided the list up into sections – scroll on to see what catches your eye.
By area:
The beach
It’s no wonder so many new immigrants are drawn to the coast. The sandy beaches and blue water are a sight to behold. Even with natural beauty aside, regular walking and swimming along the beach is an effortless way to embrace a healthy Mediterranean lifestyle.
Because the coastline is sought-after, there are houses to fit a number of budgets. Tel Aviv, Jaffa, Herzliya, and Caesarea might represent the more expensive side of the spectrum, although they do also boast extremely beautiful properties and pleasant and exciting neighborhoods. For those with limited funds, cities like Ashkelon, Ashdod, Hadera, and Natanya offer a number of houses and apartments of high quality, very often with more space.
Which you’ll choose will depend on your needs. Tel Aviv real estate and Jaffa are perfect for urbanites who are excited by the bustle of a big city – particularly a big city where people work hard and play hard, often frequenting clubs, bars, or at least restaurants and food stands after work. If you prefer somewhere less intense, and have the option to commute or work from home, Herzliya, Natanya or Hadera Real Estate are all good options. Ashdod and Ashkelon are more cities in their own right, with their own identity. Posh Caesarea is known for its golf clubs and the archaeological site of the ancient port, where residents and tourists pass before lounging on the beach.
The center
The centre of Israel comprises of the cities and towns around Tel Aviv, in particular those like Ramat Gan, Raanana Real Estate, or Hod HaSharon. These cities are well-connected and have many amenities and places of interest, making them comfortable places to live.
Jerusalem
The country’s capital deserves its own section. Although known primarily for its religious appeal and conservative nature, Jerusalem has many faces. What is certainly true is that it’s more traditional than many other areas in the country. For example, most businesses close on Shabbat, and many restaurants serve local food (including Jerusalemite classics like meurav yerushalmi and kubbeh hamousta) – for such a big city, Jerusalem has certainly preserved an impressive amount of character.
The city’s famous sites, including the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, are only found in the Old City. Further out are quiet, leafy neighborhoods with excellent schools and access to amenities.
Rural
For people who need some space, don’t mind long commutes, and thrive when close to nature, Israel’s rural areas are definitely worth consideration.
Keep in mind that unlike some properties in America, you’re unlikely to find a home in total isolation. Rural properties are more likely to be houses in a small village, surrounded by at least a small cluster of others. However, you’re far more likely to find a house for an affordable price, and you will have a lot more space.
The Shephalah region comprises the area between Jerusalem and the southern part of the Israeli coast. There are few big cities here, but there are moshavim, kibbutzim, and other residential areas, where you can find close-knit communities. The area becomes green and full of life in colder months with winter rain, and in spring, it’s full of common spots for hikers.
Meanwhile, the North and Galilee regions are full of natural beauty. Although considered remote by those in other areas of the country, the area is full of streams, hills, mountains and fields. For those who want to be close to this treasure trove of stunning nature, but can’t imagine themselves living in such isolation, consider the area’s unofficial main city, Haifa – a coastal city with incredible heritage (and much lower prices).
What to look out for when choosing a home in Israel
●Safety. When buying anywhere, you need to consider whether the neighborhood is safe. Some places have gated communities as an extra precaution, but this isn’t usually necessary. Ask current residents about local safety.
● Access to practical amenities. Remote properties may not have enough supermarkets for someone without a car; a car owner will need to be near a gas station; families with children will need access to local schools.
●Pleasure. Whether it’s parks and places of interest or upmarket beauticians and shopping stores, where you live needs to offer you excitement and relaxation.
