Where do French Jews settle in Israel after their Aliyah?

Every year, many French Jews choose to make Aliyah, that is, immigrate to Israel.

Once there, the choice of city or neighborhood to settle in is crucial. It depends on several criteria: proximity to French-speaking infrastructure, cost of living, employment, education, and religious affinities. Here is an overview of the main destinations popular with French olim (new immigrants).

1. The center: Merkaz/ Gush Dan

Tel Aviv, often compared to a cosmopolitan “bubble,” primarily attracts young professionals and entrepreneurs. However, high real estate prices are pushing many French speakers to settle in surrounding cities such as:

  • Netanya: Sometimes called “the 21st arrondissement of Paris,” this seaside town is popular for its pleasant climate, its French-speaking atmosphere, and its services adapted to Olim (schools, shops, French-speaking synagogues).

  • Herzliya & Ra’anana: These cities offer a good quality of life and proximity to Tel Aviv. Ra’anana, in particular, is known for its strong French-speaking community and international educational facilities.

2. Jerusalem: Tradition and Spirituality

For families and those with a spiritual and cultural interest, Jerusalem remains a favorite destination.

Several neighborhoods are particularly popular with French speakers:

  • Katamon, Baka, Rehavia, and Arnona: centralized and relatively modern neighborhoods, with a mix of secular and religious populations.

  • Har Homa, Ramat Shlomo, and Ramot: These neighborhoods attract a more religious population, with a cost of living that is often more affordable than the city center.

3. Ashdod and Ashkelon: Between the Sea and the French-speaking Community

Located south of Tel Aviv, these cities offer a more affordable alternative to the metropolis, while remaining attractive to French speakers:

  • Ashdod: The second most French-speaking city after Netanya, it offers a pleasant seaside living environment with many shops and services in French.

  • Ashkelon: A rapidly developing city, it attracts those looking for a quieter setting and more affordable prices.

4. Netivot and Sderot: An Option for Religious Families

These cities in southern Israel are booming, thanks in part to government economic incentives. They attract a religious population, often of Sephardic origin, seeking a more traditional setting and more affordable prices.

5. Haifa and Nahariya: a choice for a quieter life

Less well-known to French immigrants, these cities located in the north of the country appeal to retirees and those looking for a quieter lifestyle and a lower cost of living.

  • Haifa: A dynamic city with job opportunities and a beautiful cultural mix.

  • Nahariya: A small seaside town ideal for those seeking tranquility and nature.

The choice of which city to settle in after Aliyah depends on the profile of each family or individual. Whether for employment, proximity to a French-speaking community, or quality of life, Israel offers a variety of options to meet everyone’s expectations.

Advance preparation and preliminary visits allow you to make the best choice for successful integration.

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