Moving to Ramat Gan from the USA Housing Guide
Moving to Ramat Gan from the USA Housing Guide
Americans relocating to central Israel often discover Ramat Gan when they realize how close it is to Tel Aviv. The city offers residential neighborhoods with gardens and schools, a large national park and easy access to work in the Tel Aviv area. It also has strong ties to the English-speaking world through Bar-Ilan University and the medical and business communities. This guide helps American families compare neighborhoods, decide between renting and buying, and prepare the practical side of the move.
Comparing Neighborhoods
Ramat Chen and Tel Binyamin are known for private homes, low-rise buildings and quiet streets, which makes them popular with families. Kiryat Krinitzi offers a green, peaceful setting. Neighborhoods near the city center and Bialik Street provide urban convenience, while the towers near the Diamond Exchange suit professionals and couples without children.
Visit each area at different times of day, as traffic and noise can vary considerably.
Ramat Chen and Tel Binyamin for families
Kiryat Krinitzi for greenery and calm
The city center for shops and services
Tower apartments for professionals
Renting or Buying First
Renting first allows families to test schools and commutes and to understand how urban renewal may affect a building. Buying immediately avoids a second move but requires careful due diligence from abroad. Either way, plan how and when you will transfer funds from the US.
Schools and Family Life
Ramat Gan has a range of state and state religious schools, and some have experience with children from English-speaking homes. Register through the municipality and ask about Hebrew support programs. The national park, the Safari zoological center and local sports clubs make the city appealing for families with children.
Commuting and Transport
The Red Line light rail along Jabotinsky Road, the nearby Tel Aviv Savidor Center rail station and the Ayalon Highway connect Ramat Gan with the rest of Gush Dan. Many residents commute to Tel Aviv in a short time, and some walk or cycle. Test your route at rush hour before choosing a neighborhood.
Paperwork and Status
Your immigration or residency status affects taxes, benefits and purchase tax. Clarify it with an Israeli lawyer before signing a contract. Bring apostilled documents and keep a record of the source of funds.
You will continue filing US tax returns and may need to report Israeli accounts. A US CPA experienced with Americans in Israel is an important part of your team.
Understanding Older Buildings
Many apartments in Ramat Gan are in older buildings that may be part of TAMA 38 or pinui-binui plans. Living in a building under renovation can be disruptive, but the result may be a stronger building with a safe room and elevator. Ask about any plans before you rent or buy.
Settling In
Once you have keys, transfer the utility accounts, register for municipal property tax and enroll with a health fund. English-speaking networks connected to Bar-Ilan University, local synagogues and online community groups can recommend movers, tradespeople and pediatricians. Keep US banking and a US phone number active for ongoing obligations, and plan a call with your US CPA before your first filing season in Israel so that foreign account reporting and any credits are handled correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Which Ramat Gan neighborhood suits families
Ramat Chen, Tel Binyamin and Kiryat Krinitzi are popular with families, but visit several areas before deciding.
How close is Ramat Gan to Tel Aviv
The cities border each other, and the light rail, trains and highways make commuting straightforward.
Will my building be renovated
It depends on the building. Ask the building committee and your lawyer about any TAMA 38 or pinui-binui plans.
Do I need a US CPA after moving
Yes. US citizens continue to file US returns, and a CPA familiar with Israel can guide you.
Elkayam Group
Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, part of the three-generation Elkayam Group, is based on Rival Street in Tel Aviv, close to Ramat Gan. Our English, Hebrew and French speaking team knows urban renewal from the inside, and we help relocating families understand the buildings they consider.
Moving your family to Ramat Gan Contact us to discuss neighborhoods and buildings in English.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv