Tel Aviv costs more than Jerusalem, and the biggest reason is housing. Going out costs more there too, while groceries are similar. The full guide to everyday costs in Israel is here; for current home prices and asking rents in each city, with their dates, see the dated city table in our average rent and costs guide.
Is Tel Aviv more expensive than Jerusalem?
Yes. Neither city is cheap, but Tel Aviv costs more just to live in.
Tel Aviv projects and homes
For Rent
40th-Floor Apartment for Rent in Midtown Towers, Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv
112 m² · Floor 40
View PropertyShort-term rental
central jaffa family summer house
ger tsedek 6, Florentin, Tel Aviv
160 m² · Ground Floor
View Property
For Sale
₪6,650,000
Gindi VOGUE: 4-Room Apartment Rights Assignment in Sde Dov, Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv
4 rooms · 115.8 m² · Floor 2
View PropertyHow much more does housing cost in Tel Aviv?
Housing is the largest gap, in both renting and buying. A comparable apartment costs clearly more in Tel Aviv than in Jerusalem, and that single factor makes Tel Aviv the more expensive city overall; the actual figures by city are in that table.
Why does daily life cost more in Tel Aviv?
Because the lifestyle is built around going out. Cafes, restaurants, bars and events are central to Tel Aviv life and come at a premium, so a night out costs noticeably more than in Jerusalem. Groceries and basic goods are similarly priced in both cities; the temptation to spend on food and entertainment is far higher in Tel Aviv.
Can you live more modestly in Jerusalem?
Yes. Jerusalem has a more home-centric culture for many of its residents. You can live modestly there without missing out on the city’s core identity.
Planning to buy in Israel? Browse Israeli homes for sale and our buyer guidance.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is Jerusalem expensive to live in?
Neither city is cheap, and Jerusalem has its own high-end offerings. Housing is still the biggest gap with Tel Aviv, which costs more.
Is Tel Aviv expensive?
Yes. Housing and going out both cost more there than in Jerusalem.
Are groceries cheaper in Jerusalem?
Similar. Groceries cost about the same in both cities.
Where can I see current prices in each city?
In the dated city table in our average rent and costs guide, or on our pages for Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
