How Much Will it Cost Us?

I spent the first few months trying to figure out if we could afford to live in Israel. I went to classes and downloaded budgets from various sources. I then put together sample budgets and finally hired an financial advisor for a couple of hours to review and refine. The results (which were done when I was planning to move to Haifa, are below. BTW, when this was done when it was around 3.5 Israel Shekel to the US Dollar. Today it is around 3.32. Some highlights compared to what I am paying now.

• Housing- Much higher. This would be around $1300 monthly in Haifa and I am assuming around $1500 for a 2 bedroom apartment.

• Groceries- Higher. I am being conservative, and the fact that we have eliminated much animal based proteins might save some money.

• Technology- Lower. Cell service is much lower (competition helps) as is high-speed internet and cable TV.

• Transportation- Lower. We are selling both cars (anyone looking for a great deal?) and using the great public transportation in Israel.

• School- Lower/Higher. It would be typically lower but the private school we are planning to take Zoe will be higher. Lower then a private school in the US.

• Health Insurance- Much Lower. Free for the first year as an Olem and then paid through the job afterwards.

When the smoke cleared, I estimated 13,200 Shekels monthly - About $4,000. Note that I am not including one time purchases and such, as I was trying to get an idea of the overall daily cost.

I am very interested to have people review this and give me their thoughts.