Retiring in Israel from New Jersey Housing Guide
Retiring in Israel from New Jersey Housing Guide
For many New Jersey retirees, the move to Israel is about family. Children who made aliyah from Teaneck, Passaic or Highland Park have settled in Beit Shemesh, Modiin, Jerusalem or Raanana, and grandparents want to be close. Others dream of retirement near the sea in Netanya or in a quiet Jerusalem neighborhood after decades of New Jersey winters. The housing questions are different from those of a young family. Accessibility, walkability, medical access and community matter more than school zones. This guide looks at those priorities and at how to plan a home that will work for many years.
Living Near Children and Grandchildren
The simplest rule is to live within easy walking distance or a short drive of the family you are moving for. That might mean Ramat Beit Shemesh, Modiin, a Jerusalem neighborhood such as Arnona or Katamon, or Raanana in the Sharon.
It is also wise to consider whether children might move again. Choosing a city with a strong English-speaking community of your own generation gives you a life that does not depend entirely on one household.
Accessible Homes for the Long Term
An elevator, ideally with a Shabbat setting
Few or no steps at the building entrance
A ground floor or garden apartment if stairs are a concern
A walk-in shower and wide doorways
A mamad that can also serve as a study or guest room
Nearby shops, clinics and a synagogue within walking distance
Retirement Destinations Popular with New Jersey Olim
Netanya has a large community of English and French speaking retirees and a long seafront promenade. Jerusalem offers culture, synagogues and a pace many retirees love. Raanana and Kfar Saba provide green, walkable streets and good services. Beit Shemesh and Modiin suit grandparents who want to be part of daily family life.
There are also senior residences and assisted living options in several cities. Visit a few to understand what they offer before deciding.
Health and Daily Life
New immigrants generally enroll in one of the Israeli health funds, which provide medical services under the national health system. Check which clinics and hospitals are close to the neighborhood you choose, and consider how you will get to appointments if you do not drive.
Remember that Medicare generally does not cover care abroad. A US advisor can help you think through coverage if you plan to spend time in both countries.
Money, Pensions and Taxes
Many retirees continue to receive US Social Security and pensions while living in Israel. How that income is taxed, and how any New Jersey property sale is treated, depends on individual circumstances. Speak with a US CPA experienced with Americans in Israel and an Israeli tax advisor before you sell or buy. Olim may also be entitled to certain benefits, which the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration can explain.
Selling in New Jersey and Buying in Israel
Coordinating the sale of a New Jersey home with an Israeli purchase takes planning. Some retirees rent in Israel for a period first, which gives time to decide and avoids pressure to buy quickly. With the usual seven hour time difference, much of the preparation can happen by video call before you fly out of Newark.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to buy or rent in retirement
Both work. Renting gives flexibility, while buying provides stability and a home adapted to your needs. Many retirees rent first and buy later.
Which cities are best for English-speaking retirees
Netanya, Jerusalem, Raanana, Modiin and Beit Shemesh are frequent choices, each with a different lifestyle.
Can I keep receiving Social Security in Israel
Many Americans do. Confirm your situation with the relevant US agency and a US advisor.
Are there retirement communities in Israel
Yes, there are senior residences and assisted living options in several cities, with different models and services.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, the trading name of Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, is a Tel Aviv company at Rival Street 37 with three generations of family experience that began in industry in 1945. Our English, Hebrew and French speaking team knows the difference between an apartment that looks good in a listing and one that works for daily life, and our background in development and urban renewal helps us assess buildings for the long term.
Planning retirement near your family in Israel. Our team would be glad to help you find the right home.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv