Making Aliyah from Phoenix and Finding a Home in Israel
Making Aliyah from Phoenix and Finding a Home in Israel
Families from Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe and North Phoenix who make aliyah often arrive comfortable with heat and sunshine but less familiar with apartment living and dense neighborhoods. In the Valley, homes tend to be single-story houses with yards and pools, and every errand involves a car. Israel offers walkable cities, strong communities and a wide choice of settings, from the Jerusalem hills to the Negev. Housing is often the biggest practical decision in the move. This guide helps Phoenix olim choose where to live, decide whether to rent or buy and prepare for the details that make the transition easier.
Where Phoenix Olim Settle
Many families choose communities with established English-speaking populations, such as Modiin, Raanana, Beit Shemesh and neighborhoods of Jerusalem. Those who enjoy desert landscapes may consider Beersheba, Omer or Meitar in the Negev, where space and a slower pace appeal to some families.
Visit several options, including over Shabbat, and speak with families who have made a similar move.
From Houses with Yards to Apartments
Phoenix families are used to single-story homes. In Israeli cities, most families live in apartments, although garden apartments and private houses exist, especially in smaller communities and the Negev.
Think about which features matter most, such as outdoor space, parking, an elevator or a mamad, and prioritize them when viewing.
Rent Before You Buy
Renting for a period lets you test commutes, schools and community life. It also gives time to learn Hebrew, open bank accounts and understand local pricing.
When you are ready to buy, a mortgage advisor can explain how Israeli banks assess new immigrants and US income.
Benefits and Tax Considerations
New immigrants may be entitled to certain benefits and, in some cases, reduced purchase tax on a home bought within a set window after arrival. The rules depend on individual status and change over time.
Confirm your eligibility with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, an Israeli lawyer and a tax advisor. As a US citizen, you will continue to file US returns, so involve a US CPA.
Remote Work Across a Large Time Gap
Israel is typically nine or ten hours ahead of Phoenix, since Arizona does not change clocks. Olim who keep working for an Arizona employer often work late into the Israeli night.
If that is your plan, a quiet home office and a neighborhood with good internet infrastructure should be high on your list. Families often find that a slightly larger apartment with a separate study is worth more than extra living space.
Your Arizona Home
Selling before aliyah provides funds and simplifies life. Keeping your Phoenix home as a rental may provide income but requires management from abroad, including summer maintenance of cooling systems and pools.
Plan timing with your advisors so funds are available when your Israeli purchase requires them. If you keep the house, a local manager who understands Arizona heat, pool care and seasonal tenants will be essential while you are abroad.
Practical Tips for the Move
A few steps make settling in easier.
Measure furniture carefully before shipping
Plan for less reliance on cars and more on public transport
Check that your building has a mamad or nearby shelter
Look for schools and youth programs within walking distance
Allow time for flights from Sky Harbor, which usually connect in the East Coast or Europe
Frequently asked questions
Which communities suit Phoenix families after aliyah
Modiin, Raanana, Beit Shemesh and Jerusalem are common, while some families who enjoy the desert consider Beersheba, Omer or Meitar.
Will we have to give up having a yard
Not necessarily. Garden apartments and houses exist, especially in smaller communities, though most city families live in apartments.
Should we buy before arriving
Many olim rent first. Discuss timing and any benefit windows with an Israeli lawyer and tax advisor.
Can I keep working for an Arizona employer
Many olim work remotely, but the time difference is large. Review employment and tax implications with advisors in both countries.
Elkayam Group
Behind Elkayam Group stands a family that has been in business since 1945, now in its third generation, with offices at Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv. Its work covers real estate development, urban renewal including TAMA 38 and pinui-binui, combination transactions and complex deals, supported by backing companies and partners and with the ability to provide guarantees. Buyers from Phoenix are served by a team working in English, Hebrew and French that helps connect them with the right Israeli professionals.
Planning aliyah from Phoenix. Reach out to discuss communities and your first home in Israel.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv