True cost

What aliyah actually costs.

The free flight isn't the whole story. Shipping, deposits, double rent, appliances, the 'oh no' month — line by line.

What it actually costs

Gross cost

$46,710

₪172,827

Sal Klita & oleh offsets

-$15,946

-₪59,000

Your real out-of-pocket

$30,764

₪113,827

  • Shipping 15m³ container

    Lift, customs broker, port fees included

    $12,750

  • Israeli customs / VAT on lift

    Most household goods are oleh-tax-exempt; some items aren't

    $600

  • Storage in origin (2 mo)

    $880

  • Temporary housing in Israel (2 mo Airbnb)

    Before your real lease starts

    $4,800

  • First-month rent + deposit + agent

    Typical 3-room: 1mo rent + 2mo deposit + 1mo agent fee

    $5,500

  • Setup: bank, internet, phones, kupah

    $600

  • Appliances + furniture (the basics)

    Fridge, washing machine, stove, AC, beds. IKEA is your friend.

    $4,500

  • Used car (basic)

    Cars in Israel cost ~2× US prices. Oleh discount on one car helps.

    $14,000

  • Health insurance gap (3 mo until kupah)

    $1,080

  • Buffer for the 'oh no' month

    Trust us.

    $2,000

Numbers are realistic 2025 estimates from olim relocation companies (Ocean Express, Sonigo, Cohen Movers) and Misrad HaKlita Sal Klita schedules. Your total may swing ±20%.