Retiring in Israel from Hartford Housing Guide
Retiring in Israel from Hartford Housing Guide
Retirement in Greater Hartford often means a comfortable house, a familiar synagogue and friends from decades of community life. For many retirees whose children and grandchildren live in Israel, the pull to join them grows stronger each year. Moving to Israel at this stage is a significant decision, and housing sits at its center. The right apartment should be accessible, close to services and in a community where English speakers feel at home. This guide explains how Hartford retirees can approach the housing decision and which advisers to involve.
Choosing Where to Live
Retirees from Connecticut often gravitate to places with established English-speaking communities. In Jerusalem that includes Baka, the German Colony, Talbiyeh and Arnona. In the Sharon region, Raanana and Kfar Saba are popular, while Netanya and Herzliya offer seaside living. Modiin appeals to those who want to be near children raising families there.
Visit at different times of year to understand the weather, the noise and the pace of daily life.
Accessibility and Comfort
After years in a Connecticut house with stairs, many retirees welcome a single-level apartment with an elevator. Look for a step-free entrance, wide doorways, a walk-in shower and a safe room inside the apartment. A covered balcony can become your favorite room.
Consider how easy it is to walk to shops, a clinic and a synagogue, and whether a bus or light rail line is nearby.
Elevator and step-free entry
Walk-in shower and grab bar readiness
Nearby clinic, pharmacy and supermarket
Close to family or public transport
Health Funds and Services
Residents in Israel receive health care through health funds, and registration is part of settling in. Major hospitals in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa serve large regions, and clinics are widespread in cities. Check with official sources and your advisers about registration and coverage before your move.
Income, Taxes and Estate Planning
Social Security, pensions and retirement accounts continue after a move, but how they are taxed and reported can change. New immigrants may be eligible for certain benefits. Estate planning also becomes cross-border once you own property in Israel. Work with an Israeli tax advisor, an Israeli lawyer and a US CPA before finalizing plans.
Travel Back to Connecticut
Bradley International has no nonstop flights to Israel, so retirees usually travel via New York, Newark or Boston, or through Europe. Israel is usually seven hours ahead of Hartford, so a late afternoon call in Israel catches friends in West Hartford over their morning coffee. Many retirees follow their Hartford synagogues' services and classes online.
Selling the Connecticut Home
Selling a family home and buying in Israel involves timing, taxes and emotions. Some retirees rent in Israel first while the Connecticut house is sold. Others buy a new apartment off plan and move when it is ready. Plan with your family and advisers so each step supports the next.
Frequently asked questions
Is a new building better for retirees
New buildings typically include elevators, safe rooms and modern accessibility. Older buildings in central areas can also work if they have an elevator and are well maintained.
Can we rent first
Yes. Renting for a period lets you test a neighborhood before buying, and many retirees find it reduces stress.
How do we handle US and Israeli taxes
Consult an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA who work with retirees. They can review your income sources and reporting obligations.
Can you help us find an accessible apartment
Yes. We can focus the search on buildings and neighborhoods that suit retirees and arrange viewings in person or by video.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, known as Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, is based at Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv. With a family history reaching back to 1945 and three generations of experience, the group works in development, urban renewal, pinui-binui, TAMA 38 and combination deals. Together with backing companies and partners, it can provide guarantees on suitable projects. Hartford retirees value a team that works in Hebrew, English and French and explains things patiently.
Considering retirement in Israel Contact our team for a thoughtful first conversation.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv