Pros and Cons of Living in Israel
Last updated on Feb 01, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Israel include the country's rich cultural heritage, its vibrant economy, its excellent healthcare system, and its strong sense of community. Additionally, Israel is a safe and secure country with a strong military presence. On the other hand, the cons of living in Israel include the high cost of living, the ongoing conflict with neighboring countries, and the fact that it is a small country with limited resources.
What are the pros and cons of living in Israel?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Israel responded:
"I came to Israel because I loved it here. My two kids live here (my daughter got married this week!) But life here is so so unnecessarily hard. I'm shocked at the filth and garbage. The constant noise (and I'm a city girl, from NY & Boston). People don't recycle. Dog poop all over. Cost of living is sky high (cheaper outside the center, but the center is where everyone is!) Our wi-fi sucks half the time though that's getting better. The banking laws are medieval. So there ya go. We are out of here soon," said one in Tel Aviv.
"Expats and digital nomads living in Israel often appreciate the country's vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and rich history. They also enjoy the warm climate, beautiful beaches, and outdoor activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Israel to be quite high, and the language barrier can be a challenge. Additionally, the political situation in the region can be a source of stress for some," explained one expat in Israel.
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What do expats in Israel appreciate most about the local culture?
"The people here are so warm. They will not trust you at first, but when you prove to them you are a nice person, they will open up to you. Most people have learned English from an early age here, and are often eager to speak to you in English. This was so helpful and crucial when I first came here," remarked one expat in Kfar Saba.
"Most people are nice and will help if they can. They are happy to speak English if they can," explained one expat living in Ramat Gan.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Israel often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to, and can find it challenging to adjust to the new environment. Many expats find the language barrier to be a major challenge, as Hebrew is the primary language spoken in Israel. Additionally, the country's religious and cultural norms can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the fast-paced lifestyle in Israel, as well as the country's strict security measures," said one expat in Israel.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Israel Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Israel
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Israel
- Best Places to Live in Israel
- Guide to Real Estate in Israel
- Pros & Cons of Living in Israel
- Cost of Living in Israel
- Top Hospitals in Israel by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Israel (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving with a Pet to Israel
- Mental Health Care in Israel
- Pros and Cons of Living in Israel 2024