Retiring in Israel from Boston Housing Guide
Retiring in Israel from Boston Housing Guide
For many Boston area retirees the decision to move to Israel follows children and grandchildren who have already settled there. Others have spent decades visiting and simply want to spend their later years in the Jewish homeland. Either way, housing for retirement is different from housing for a young family. Accessibility, walkability, proximity to healthcare and to community, and a manageable apartment matter more than extra bedrooms. This guide looks at neighborhoods that suit retirees from Massachusetts and the practical issues of downsizing across an ocean.
Priorities for a Retirement Home
Retirees often want an apartment on one level with an elevator, near shops, a synagogue and a health clinic. Being within reach of family, but not necessarily next door, is a common goal.
Buildings with a mamad protected room and good accessibility are worth prioritizing. Newer buildings and those upgraded through TAMA 38 often add elevators and improve safety.
Elevator access and single level living
Walking distance to shops and synagogue
Proximity to clinics and hospitals
A protected room and safe building
Neighborhoods That Suit Retirees
In Jerusalem, Baka, the German Colony, Rehavia and Talbiya are popular with English speaking retirees who value culture, parks and walkability. Arnona and Katamon also have strong communities.
Raanana is known for its large English speaking population and green, orderly streets. Netanya offers the sea and a long established community of retirees from abroad. Zichron Yaakov and nearby areas appeal to those who want a smaller town atmosphere with views of the coast.
Healthcare and Community
Olim join one of the Israeli health funds and receive care through the national health system, while those who do not make aliyah have different arrangements. Proximity to a hospital and to your health fund clinic is a practical consideration when choosing a neighborhood.
Many retirees find community through synagogues, English speaking groups and volunteering. Areas with established Anglo communities make it easier to build a social life quickly.
Downsizing from a Boston House
Moving from a colonial in Newton or a house in Sharon to an Israeli apartment often means letting go of space and belongings. Israeli apartments are typically smaller, and storage can be limited.
Selling a Massachusetts home has US tax implications that should be reviewed with a US CPA. Your advisors can also help you plan how to transfer funds and structure income from Social Security, pensions or investments while living abroad.
Renting or Buying in Retirement
Some retirees rent in Israel to stay flexible, while others buy to have security and stability. There are also senior residences and assisted living options in several cities.
Olim may be entitled to purchase tax benefits for a limited period, and eligibility should be confirmed with an Israeli lawyer or tax advisor.
Staying Connected to Boston
With a seven hour time difference, calls with friends and family back home are easiest in the Israeli afternoon or evening. Flights from Logan connect well through New York or Europe, and at times nonstop service has been available, making return visits for family events manageable.
Frequently asked questions
Which Israeli city has the most English speaking retirees
Jerusalem, Raanana and Netanya all have large English speaking communities with many retirees, along with Modiin and Beit Shemesh.
Will I have healthcare in Israel
Olim join the national health system through a health fund. Non olim retirees need to explore other arrangements. Check your eligibility with the relevant authorities.
Can I receive US retirement income in Israel
Many US retirement payments can generally be received abroad, but rules vary. Confirm your situation with the relevant US agency and a US CPA.
Should I buy an older or newer apartment
Newer or renovated buildings usually offer elevators and protected rooms, which matter in retirement. An older building in a TAMA 38 plan may also improve over time.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group is a Tel Aviv real estate company at Rival Street 37, built on a family heritage dating to 1945 and now in its third generation. We work across development, urban renewal and complex transactions with backing companies and partners, and our team works in English, Hebrew and French to help retirees from Boston find a home that fits.
Planning retirement in Israel from Boston Contact our team for a personal conversation.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv