Jerusalem, Israel’s capital and spiritual heart, holds a magnetic allure for English-speaking Olim from around the world. Steeped in history yet buzzing with modern energy, it offers a dynamic lifestyle unlike any other city in the country. Whether you’re a retiree drawn to the holiness of the Old City, a young couple looking for a community of like-minded professionals, or a family seeking strong Torah values with English-speaking schools—Jerusalem delivers.
In this article, we explore everything you need to know about living in Jerusalem as an Anglo: neighborhoods, schools, shuls, housing, cost of living, and insider tips for making the Holy City your home.
Why Anglos Choose Jerusalem
Jerusalem has the largest and most diverse Anglo population in Israel. Immigrants from the U.S., UK, Canada, South Africa, and Australia have established deep-rooted communities that blend seamlessly with local culture while retaining a distinctly English-speaking feel. It’s a city where your taxi driver might know Gemara better than your rabbi, and where every Shabbat table feels like a gathering of the nations.
Top reasons Anglos choose Jerusalem:
- Access to hundreds of Torah classes, in English.
- Kosher restaurants on nearly every street corner.
- Rich synagogue life—across all hashkafic (religious) spectrums.
- Excellent healthcare and major hospitals.
- Proximity to the Kotel, the Old City, and world-class museums.
Top Anglo Neighborhoods in Jerusalem
1. Baka & German Colony
- Vibe: Affluent, laid-back, Dati Leumi/Modern Orthodox mix.
- Population: Many Anglos from North America and the UK.
- Amenities: Coffee shops, boutiques, the popular “Mesila Park” walking path, and close access to Emek Refaim.
- Schools: Efrata, Pelech, TALI, and many international kindergartens.
Perfect for: Families, professionals, and retirees who want a village feel in a central urban location.
2. Rechavia & Shaarei Chesed
- Vibe: Yeshivish, professional, and centrally located.
- Population: Older American immigrants, young singles in yeshiva/seminary, professionals.
- Amenities: Walking distance to the Great Synagogue, Machane Yehuda, and the Knesset.
- Synagogues: Dozens of minyanim with world-famous English-speaking rabbis.
Perfect for: Singles, scholars, and couples who want to be in the heart of the Anglo Torah world.
3. Har Nof
- Vibe: Haredi, Yeshivish, and Sephardi with strong Anglo presence.
- Population: Many English-speaking yeshiva families and baalei teshuva.
- Schools: Beis Yaakov, Toras Moshe, Darchei Binah, and Neve Yerushalayim.
- Cost: More affordable housing than central neighborhoods.
Perfect for: Frum (religious) families seeking serious Torah learning in an Anglo-accommodating environment.
4. Arnona & Talpiyot Mizrach
- Vibe: Mixed religious and secular, developing quickly.
- Population: Young families, new Olim.
- Real Estate: New apartments and affordable rentals.
- Bonus: Home to the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.
Perfect for: Olim looking for affordability, growth, and community development.
Cost of Living in Jerusalem
Jerusalem isn’t cheap, especially in Anglo-heavy neighborhoods. However, costs can vary significantly depending on location and lifestyle.
| Category | Monthly Cost (NIS) |
|---|---|
| 3BR Apartment Rent in Baka | 9,500–12,000 |
| 3BR Apartment Rent in Har Nof | 6,000–7,800 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) | 1,200–1,500 |
| Childcare/gan tuition | 2,000–3,800 |
| Groceries for family of 4 | 3,500–5,000 |
| Private health insurance supplement | 250–500 per adult |
Tip: Many families take advantage of government subsidies for education and healthcare post-Aliyah.
Religious Life and Shuls
Jerusalem boasts more synagogues per square kilometer than any city in the world.
Popular English-speaking minyanim include:
- Nitzanim (Baka)
- Yakar (Old Katamon)
- Rav Bina’s Minyan (Rechavia)
- Kehillat HaRamban (German Colony)
- Orayta, Aish HaTorah, and the Kotel (for soul-level inspiration)
From daily daf yomi to women’s learning groups, English-language Torah is everywhere.
Schools for Anglo Families
Jerusalem offers a variety of educational options tailored for Olim. Many schools have Anglo principals, teachers, and integration programs.
Top schools for Anglos:
- Yehuda HaLevi (Dati Leumi boys)
- Pelech (girls’ high school)
- Shilo (integrated school with strong English support)
- Neve Yerushalayim and Michlala (seminaries)
- Yeshivas like Aish HaTorah, Machon Shlomo, and Ohr Somayach
Special needs, therapeutic, and gifted tracks are available through the Jerusalem Municipality in both Hebrew and English-friendly frameworks.
Employment and Commuting
Major sectors for Anglos:
- Education (English teachers are in high demand)
- Non-profit sector (NGOs, religious organizations)
- Tech (some startups and remote work options)
- Rabbinical/yeshiva work
For those working outside Jerusalem, the high-speed train to Tel Aviv makes commuting easier than ever—just 32 minutes from Navon Station.
Real Estate and Rentals
Jerusalem’s real estate market is dynamic. Prices are climbing steadily, but rental options are still available for every budget.
Neighborhood Price Snapshot (Purchase per sqm):
- Baka: ₪40,000–₪50,000
- Rechavia: ₪45,000+
- Har Nof: ₪25,000–₪30,000
- Arnona: ₪28,000–₪35,000
Buying tip: Anglo buyers often work with English-speaking brokers who know the local ins-and-outs.
Integration Services
New Olim to Jerusalem benefit from:
- English-speaking Aliyah coordinators through Misrad Haklita.
- Free Ulpan programs across the city (Ulpan Etzion, Ulpan Morasha).
- Local WhatsApp groups and Anglo support networks for everything from plumbers to party planners.
- Nefesh B’Nefesh Jerusalem Hub on Kanfei Nesharim.
Safety and Security
While Jerusalem faces occasional security tensions, it is generally very safe for daily life. Most neighborhoods have private security patrols, and local residents are highly community-oriented.
Who Should Move to Jerusalem?
Ideal For:
Religious families
Torah learners
Young professionals wanting community
Retirees seeking spiritual connection
Singles in yeshiva/seminary
Less Ideal For:
People seeking nightlife and secular culture (Tel Aviv is better)
Budget-minded Olim without government benefits
Those needing quiet suburbia
Final Thoughts: Jerusalem as a Destination for Anglos
Living in Jerusalem is not just about location—it’s a lifestyle and a mindset. The city’s soul is undeniable, its views are breathtaking, and the experience of being surrounded by thousands of years of Jewish history is transformative.
Whether you choose to walk the cobblestones of the Old City, enjoy Shabbat meals with neighbors in Katamon, or study at one of the many English-speaking yeshivas, life in Jerusalem offers something no other place on Earth can.
Need help making Aliyah to Jerusalem?
At Easy Aliyah, we offer VIP concierge services to ensure a smooth transition—from housing and schools to bureaucratic appointments and full relocation planning.
Get in touch with us to start your journey to the Holy City.