Modi’in-Maccabim-Re’ut, often shortened to Modi’in, stands as one of the fastest-growing, best-planned new cities in Israel––and a shining example of modern Anglo olim success. Designed by renowned architects, it combines aesthetics with function: spacious green boulevards, contemporary homes, parks, and excellent infrastructure that appeal to Western sensibilities. Strategically located just ~30 km from both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, Modi’in is increasingly popular with English-speaking families seeking suburban convenience without sacrificing urban access.
Why Modi’in Appeals to Anglos
- Planned for families & Anglos: Modi’in was built for modern family life, with parks, cycling paths, and green spaces everywhere Wikipedia+12Wikipedia+12Nefesh B’Nefesh+12. It has a growing Anglo presence—especially in neighborhoods like Buchman and Kaizer—representing ~10–20% of the population Haaretz+2Easy Aliyah+2Imamother+2.
- Central location: Just ~20–30 min by car or train to Tel Aviv and ~30–40 min to Jerusalem AliyahNet+2Easy Aliyah+2Nefesh B’Nefesh+2.
- Quality of life: Excellent schools, green spaces, sustainable development, and an industrial/hi‑tech park offering local employment Buyitinisrael.
- Strong olim support: A dedicated municipal absorption department helps new Anglos integrate with host families, workshops, ulpan, assistance with benefits and schooling Imamother+12ModiinApp+12Jewish Telegraphic Agency+12.
Neighborhoods & Housing
Modi’in is divided into well-defined neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range Easy Aliyah+10Wikipedia+10Buyitinisrael+10:
| Neighborhood | Vibe & Appeal | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Buchman (North/South) | Most Anglo-heavy, family-friendly, newer | ₪25–35k/m² purchase; rent ₪4.5–8k/mo Easy Aliyah+4Easy Aliyah+4Imamother+4 |
| Kaizer (Avnei Chen) | Balanced mix, mature infrastructure | Similar range to Buchman |
| Giv‘ah C (Shimshoni) | Older, smaller, close-knit | Slightly more affordable |
| Shvatim / Nofim / Masuah | Quiet, green, expanding | Mid-range |
- Buy vs. Rent: 3‑bedroom apartments typically rent for ₪4,500–8,000/month; purchase prices average ₪25,000–35,000/m² Easy Aliyah.
- Ideal housing: New apartments, duplexes, and family-friendly homes with outdoor space and communal parks.
Schools & Education
Modi’in offers excellent options spanning secular, religious, and special education Wikipedia+12Anglo List+12Buyitinisrael+12:
- Over 150 kindergartens, 19 elementary schools, and 7 secondary schools Anglo List.
- English/international support: Schools like Yachad offer Anglo-friendly tracks; public bilingual support is available.
- Special education: Continued development, with municipal support and Aliyah absorption contacts Easy AliyahAnglo List+1ModiinApp+1.
- Adult education: Open University branch offers degrees and certificates locally Anglo ListEven Sapir.
Community & Religious Life
- Religious mix: Mostly secular/traditional, with growing Modern Orthodox presence Easy Aliyah+2Easy Aliyah+2Buyitinisrael+2.
- Shuls: Multiple synagogues cover Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Dati, and Progressive movements—many hold shiurim and services in English.
- Youth & culture: Youth movements (Bnei Akiva, Progressive), year-round events in Park Anabe, and a strong AACI and Nefesh B’Nefesh presence Easy Aliyah+1Imamother+1Anglo List+2Jewish Telegraphic Agency+2Jewish Action+2.
Cost of Living
Modi’in is more affordable than Ra’anana or central Tel Aviv, but on par with quality suburban living Buyitinisrael+2Easy Aliyah+2Haaretz+2:
- Rent: ₪4,500–8,000/month for a 3BR.
- Purchase: ₪25k–35k/m², depending on neighborhood and age.
- Utilities & groceries: Consistent with similar-sized Israeli cities.
- Municipal incentives: First-year Arnona (property tax) discount for olim Buyitinisrael+2ModiinApp+2Nefesh B’Nefesh+2.
Employment & Economy
- Hi‑tech and industrial park: Offers local job opportunities in tech, office, retail, and education Anglo List+1Easy Aliyah+1.
- Olim enterprise: Anglo entrepreneurs often set up businesses here due to lifestyle and access to both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv Nefesh B’Nefesh+10Jewish Telegraphic Agency+10Easy Aliyah+10.
- Commuting: Easy access to employment hubs via train, bus, highway 1, 443, and 6 Imamother+7Easy Aliyah+7Wikipedia+7.
Recreation & Transport
- Green infrastructure: Numerous parks, bike paths, walking trails, artificial lake with amphitheater Jewish Action+2Anglo List+2Jewish Telegraphic Agency+2.
- Cultural venues: Park Anabe amphitheater for summer events.
- Transport:
- Train station to Tel Aviv airport–Jerusalem–Haifa lines (~20 min to Tel Aviv) Jewish Telegraphic AgencyAnglo List+1Easy Aliyah+1.
- Frequent buses, including night routes.
- Major highways bring easy driving access Anglo ListEasy Aliyah.
Pros & Cons Summary
Pros
- Family-oriented, Anglo-friendly city
- Strategic location for commuters
- Modern infrastructure & green spaces
- Good schools with English support
- Excellent olim integration services
Cons
- Housing costs rising and less affordable than lesser-known towns
- Anglo community still growing—less established than Ra’anana or Jerusalem
- Suburban feel with minimal nightlife or cultural intensity
Who Modi’in Is Best For
Families seeking suburban comfort with excellent schools
Anglos wanting a planned, eco-friendly environment
Commuters working in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, or local hi-tech
Olim appreciating structured integration with municipal support
Those wanting balance—neither too urban nor too rural
Final Thoughts
Modi’in is a balanced, thoughtful choice for English-speaking families seeking the “best of both worlds”: modern, well-planned suburban comfort combined with proximity to Israel’s major cities. It offers a measured entry into Israeli life—supportive yet not insular, developed yet still evolving—making it an excellent option for those looking to plant roots thoughtfully.
Interested in Aliyah to Modi’in?
Easy Aliyah offers full support—from choosing a neighborhood to school placement, housing assistance, and integration guidance. Reach out today for personalized help on your Modi’in journey.