Making Aliyah from Pittsburgh and Finding a Home in Israel
Making Aliyah from Pittsburgh and Finding a Home in Israel
Families from Squirrel Hill, Greenfield, Regent Square and the South Hills have made aliyah for generations, often following children who studied in Israel or friends who went first. The move itself involves many decisions, and housing is among the most important. Should you rent before buying, which city fits your family, and how should you prepare finances and documents while still in Pittsburgh. This guide focuses on the housing side of aliyah and how to approach it calmly, with the right advisors, so the new home supports your integration rather than complicating it.
Starting the Plan in Pittsburgh
Most families begin with community events, aliyah organizations and conversations with people who already moved. Before the move, gather documents, review your US financial accounts and ask a US CPA how becoming an Israeli resident affects your American tax filings.
Israel offers a range of benefits to new immigrants, and some relate to housing and taxation. Their details change, so confirm what applies to you with the relevant Israeli authorities and an Israeli lawyer or tax advisor.
Rent First or Buy Right Away
Many new immigrants rent for the first period. Renting lets you learn a neighborhood, test the commute and see where children settle at school. Others, especially those who know Israel well from years of visits, prefer to buy early to secure a long-term base.
Neither approach is right for everyone. Consider how well you know the city, how stable your job plans are and how comfortable you are managing a purchase in Hebrew-language systems with professional help.
Cities Popular with English Speakers
Pittsburgh olim often look for a community feel similar to Squirrel Hill, with synagogues, schools and shops within walking distance. Jerusalem, Ra'anana, Modiin, Beit Shemesh, Efrat and Zichron Yaakov all have established English-speaking communities. Those who know the north through the Pittsburgh partnership connection sometimes choose Karmiel or nearby communities in Misgav.
Jerusalem for depth of community and culture
Ra'anana and Kfar Saba for suburban life near the center
Modiin for newer neighborhoods and rail access
Karmiel and Misgav for a quieter northern setting
Schools, Commutes and Daily Life
For families, schooling often decides the neighborhood. Visit schools, ask about support for English-speaking students and check how children would get there. Map the commute to likely workplaces using Israel's rail and bus network.
Daily life also matters. Consider the local ulpan, proximity to your synagogue community and access to health services.
Buying as a New Immigrant
If you buy, hire an independent Israeli lawyer to check title, planning status and the contract. Ask your advisors how immigrant status may affect purchase tax, and have your bank explain mortgage options for new residents.
Keep in mind that US tax obligations generally continue after aliyah, so coordinate with your CPA before transferring larger sums.
Staying Connected to Pittsburgh
With Israel seven hours ahead of Pittsburgh for most of the year, calls with family work best in the Israeli evening. Many olim keep a US bank account and plan visits through East Coast or European connections. A home with a guest room can make those family visits easier in both directions.
Frequently asked questions
Should we sell our Pittsburgh home before making aliyah
It depends on your finances and plans. Some families keep it as a rental. Discuss the tax implications with a US CPA and an Israeli tax advisor first.
Are there housing benefits for new immigrants
Israel provides various benefits to olim, some linked to housing and taxes. Rules change over time, so verify current eligibility with the authorities and your advisors.
Which city is most similar to Squirrel Hill
No city is identical, but walkable Jerusalem neighborhoods and communities such as Ra'anana often appeal to people who enjoy Squirrel Hill's community life.
Can we start house hunting before we arrive
Yes. Remote viewings and early legal checks are common, though many families prefer to see the final shortlist in person.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group operates from Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv and draws on a family heritage that began in 1945 and now reaches a third generation. Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd works across development, urban renewal and complex real estate deals, with backing companies and partners, and its Hebrew, English and French speaking team helps new immigrants understand the local market.
Planning aliyah from Pittsburgh. Talk with us about neighborhoods and housing options before you land.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv