Living In Israel as an American – The PROS and CONS

So first things first, my name is Claude Massey and I’m a life coach and career coach here in Tel Aviv Israel.  I’ve been living here for 13 years and I’m originally from Los Angeles California so I have complete authority to write this.

I’m going to give you a short list of the pros and then we’ll get into some of the cons of what it’s like to live in Israel as an American.  Let’s get into it.

Pro:  Most People in Israel Speak English

You’re most likely wondering, “Are there people in Israel that speak English?”  Great news for you… yes, people in Israel speak English.

Matter of fact, in the center of the country, it’s very difficult to find somebody who does not speak English.  

You do not need to speak Hebrew to move to Israel or to live in Israel.  Of course, it’s a benefit to learn the language but yes, you can survive without it.

Pro:  It is Very Possible to Find an English Speaking job in Israel

In addition, if you’re moving to Israel from America and you’re wondering, “Can i find a job?” and “Is it easy to find a job?” 

There are job opportunities aplenty for those of you who are considering moving here, or already live here that do not speak Hebrew.  Coming from America, you’re going to need to find employment in order to pay rent, food, and to have the lifestyle you want to have. 

You will need a job, you’ll need employment, and yes, you can find it here in Israel.

Pro:  There are Lots of Americans in Israel

A good thing about living in Israel as an American is there are other people like you here.  Upon landing in Israel, you will find a bunch of other Americans who live here. 

Without doubt, you will be walking through the streets and you will hear the English language, and you will see other Americans. 

How can you tell?  You just need to use your ears.  Simply listen to the accents, and you know that there’s other Americans scattered across Israel.

Of course, and most likely, they’re going to be located in the center of the country.  Meaning, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is where you’re going to find other Americans… and there is definitely a population here in Israel.

Pro:  You are Never Far from a Beach in Israel

I do not need to tell you that America is a huge country.  In addition, you may or may not live very close to the beach.  However, another benefit is that no matter where you’re at in Israel you are not far from the beautiful, warm, crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Having access to the Israeli beaches is certainly a pro if you’re moving to Israel from America.

Now let’s get into some of the cons of living in Israel as an American.  I would be lying to you if I said it was only good and gravy because nothing in life is only good and gravy.  Life can be hard here, and let me share why…

Con:  You Will Experience Culture Shock

One of the things that you will experience as an American moving to Israel is culture shock.  It is a completely different culture.

For Example:

1. The people…
2. The personalities…
3. And the entire lifestyle.

Every element of the Israeli culture is going to be different from American culture.  I’ll say it again, be prepared to experience culture shock.  Things are very, very different and this will be a shock to your system

Con: The Cost of Living In Israel is Very Expensive

One thing that you will notice is that the cost of living is much, much higher in Israel compared to America.  For example, the cost of rent compared to how much you’re going to make in a salary, the cost of food, the cost of having an automobile.

The cost is much higher in Israel, and you will need to be prepared financially when you move here. 

Con: Israel is an Extremely Small Country

America is so large and Israel is so small.  If you love traveling, you’re not going to be able to travel very far in the country.  It’s six hours from the top to the bottom of the country, and side to side, it’s about three hours.  That’s it.

However, great news is that Israel is in a central location and the airports are open.  Thank goodness.

Fact – you can travel almost anywhere in the world easily from the Middle East.

Con:  There Wars in Israel

Here’s a real pain in the ass if you’re moving to Israel from America.  The country is frequently involved in wars.  Without question, you will experience what it’s like to live through a war if you live here long enough.

Living though a war can be a very traumatic experience, and it’s something you have to consider.  I’m not going to tell you your life is in danger because Israel is a very safe place.  Much safer than many areas of America, but the experience of going through a war is a true con.

Con:  Bring a Foreigner in a Foreign Country

If you are thinking about moving to Israel from America, I want you to know that you will be a foreigner.  For example, how do Americans look at foreigners?  It’s a bit of condescension.  It’s almost looking down.

“Why are you intruding into our country?”  “We’re better than you because we were born here, and you want to be here”.  That’s what it’s like to be a foreigner.  No matter where you move no matter what you do if you move here be prepared to be a foreigner

In Conclusion…

That’s a short list of what it’s like to live in Israel as an American… both the pros and the cons.  If you are thinking about moving here, this is something to think about and if you already live here… it’s something you know is true.

Either way, thanks for sticking around to read the end of this article and don’t forget to check out the links for free downloads below!