
Making Aliyah from Memphis and Finding a Home in Israel
Making Aliyah from Memphis and Finding a Home in Israel

Families from Memphis who make aliyah often come from the tight-knit circles of Baron Hirsch, Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth, Margolin Hebrew Academy, Temple Israel or the Memphis JCC. They arrive in Israel with a strong community spirit and often look for the same warmth in a new neighborhood. Housing decisions shape schools, synagogues and friendships, so they deserve careful thought. This guide explains how Memphis families can plan housing for aliyah.
Choosing a Community
Popular choices for English-speaking families include Beit Shemesh, Modiin, Raanana, Efrat and Jerusalem neighborhoods such as Katamon, Arnona and Har Nof. Some families prefer smaller towns in the north or the Sharon region.
Visit for Shabbat and meet families who made similar moves.
Houses Versus Apartments
Memphis families used to single-family homes may find Israeli apartment living an adjustment. Garden apartments, duplexes and cottages are available in some towns, often in Beit Shemesh, Efrat and smaller communities. Consider what matters most to your family.
Outdoor space for children
Walking distance to school and shul
Parking and storage
Safe room
Rent First or Buy
Renting for a year or two gives you time to learn the area. Families with firm plans may buy sooner. Reassess after settling in.
Benefits for New Immigrants
New immigrants may be eligible for certain housing and tax benefits, subject to changing conditions. Confirm with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and the Jewish Agency, and consult an Israeli lawyer and a US CPA.
Preparing in Tennessee
Gather financial records, decide on your Memphis home and plan your shipment. Memphis International has no nonstop flights to Israel, so families usually connect through Atlanta, New York or Europe. Israel is usually eight hours ahead of Memphis.
What to Look For
Check for a safe room, balcony, storage and elevator where needed. Ask about the building committee. For new construction, review timelines and payment protections.
Frequently asked questions
Which communities suit families from Memphis
Beit Shemesh, Modiin, Raanana, Efrat and Jerusalem neighborhoods are common, depending on religious outlook and work.
Can we find a house with a yard
Yes, in some towns. Garden apartments and cottages are more common outside the largest cities.
Should we buy before arriving
Many families rent first. Buying early can work if plans are firm.
Can you help us from Memphis
Yes. We arrange video tours and coordinate with professionals.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, formally Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, works from Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv. The group continues a family tradition started in 1945 and, in its third generation, works in development, urban renewal, pinui-binui, TAMA 38 and combination deals. Backing companies and partners enable it to provide guarantees on suitable projects. Memphis families work with a team fluent in Hebrew, English and French.
Making aliyah from Memphis Let us help you find the right home.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv