Steve Ornstein: Embracing Aliyah: The Vibrant Quality of Life and Unparalleled Safety in Israel
As we step into 2026, Israel continues to shine as a homeland of opportunity, innovation, and security for Jews around the world. With a population surpassing 10 million at the start of the year, the nation is thriving despite global challenges.
A High Quality of Life: Innovation, Health, and Happiness
Israel ranks among the world’s happiest countries, securing the 8th spot in the 2025 World Happiness Report.
This isn’t by accident—it’s built on a foundation of robust infrastructure, cultural richness, and economic vitality. According to Numbeo data updated in early 2026, Israel’s overall Quality of Life Index stands at a very high 168.71, with strong scores in purchasing power (125.60), healthcare (73.41), and climate (93.81).
These figures place Israel ahead of many Western nations in key areas, offering a lifestyle that’s both dynamic and fulfilling.Cities like Tel Aviv pulse with energy, blending cutting-edge tech hubs with stunning beaches and a non-stop cultural scene. Herzliya offers coastal luxury, while Jerusalem provides a deep spiritual connection amid modern amenities. Recent rankings highlight these as top spots for quality living, with access to world-class education, green spaces, and diverse communities.
In terms of economy, Israel is a startup nation where salaries in tech, medicine, and finance often rival or exceed those abroad—without the need to slash earnings. For families, life expectancy remains high at 83.7 years, supported by universal healthcare that’s efficient and accessible.
Education systems emphasize innovation, preparing the next generation for global success. And culturally? From Hanukkah celebrations to everyday joys like shawarma and beach outings, Israel fosters a sense of belonging that’s hard to match.
Safety: Israel as the Ultimate Haven for Jews
In a world where antisemitism is rising—evident in attacks like the Bondi Beach massacre—Israel emerges as the safest place for Jews, according to a recent survey where most Jewish Israelis affirm this view.
Numbeo’s Safety Index rates Israel at a high 68.27, reflecting low crime rates and a dedicated security apparatus.
While challenges like the ongoing conflicts exist, the IDF and community resilience ensure protection that’s proactive and community-driven.
For those making Aliyah, the contrast is stark. Diaspora Jews face harassment, vandalism, and violence abroad, prompting surges in immigration from Western nations amid antisemitic spikes.
In Israel, you’re part of a majority where Jewish life flourishes openly. Government initiatives, like emergency plans to boost absorption and zero-income-tax incentives for 2026 arrivals, make the transition smoother.
Organizations like Nefesh B’Nefesh provide resources for housing, employment, and integration, ensuring newcomers feel secure from day one.
Personal accounts reinforce this. A journalist visiting nearby regions noted feeling “100% safe” in Israel during a recent 10-day stay, highlighting warm interactions even in diverse areas.
Families fleeing antisemitism abroad, like the Zacks from Sydney who became the first olim of 2026, describe Israel as a place of warmth and opportunity—their son already serves in the IDF, embodying the nation’s protective spirit.
As one recent immigrant shared, “We haven’t felt so safe in a long time, and we’ve been welcomed so warmly.”
Real Stories from Recent Olim
The pull of Aliyah is evident in testimonials. Families like the Benichous, who sped up their move after facing antisemitism in France, found solace in Israel with support from organizations providing flights and startup funds.
Ukrainian olim, such as Natalia and her family, express hope for a “good future in Israel” amid global turmoil.
And in 2025, over 22,000 Jews made the journey, with projections for continued growth in 2026, including communities like India’s Bnei Menashe.
Influential voices like Hillel Fuld are mobilizing support, offering consultations and networks to ease concerns about jobs, language, and lifestyle. “Israel is where every Jew is at home—with dignity, security, freedom, and pride,” he emphasizes, countering myths of hardship.
Why 2026 is Your Year for Aliyah
Israel’s doors are open wider than ever, with incentives and communities ready to welcome you. Whether escaping rising threats or seeking a meaningful life, Aliyah offers not just survival, but thriving. As one oleh put it, “Choosing Aliyah is choosing a future.”
If you’re ready, resources like Nefesh B’Nefesh and the Ministry of Aliyah are here to guide you. Contact them today—your homeland awaits.
As of January 2026, Israel offers a robust package of incentives to encourage Aliyah (Jewish immigration) and support new immigrants (olim) during their integration. These include longstanding benefits like the Absorption Basket (Sal Klita) and new tax reforms introduced in the 2026 state budget to attract professionals amid rising global antisemitism.
The most significant update is a time-limited tax incentive targeted specifically at those becoming Israeli residents in 2026. Note that while tax exemptions on foreign income remain, new reporting requirements apply from January 1, 2026.1. Major New Tax Incentive for 2026 The Israeli government introduced a groundbreaking reform as part of the 2026 budget, announced by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Aliyah Minister Ofir Sofer. This applies to:
- New immigrants (first-time residents).
- Veteran returning residents (Israelis abroad for 10+ years).
Key Benefit: Reduced Tax on Israeli-Sourced Earned Income (salary, business income from personal exertion):
- 2026 and 2027 — 0% tax (full exemption) on up to NIS 1,000,000 (~$270,000 USD) per year.
- 2028 — Up to NIS 600,000 exempt (effective ~10% rate on higher brackets).
- 2029 — Up to NIS 350,000 exempt.
- 2030 — Up to NIS 150,000 exempt.
- Income above the cap is taxed at standard rates.
This is in addition to existing benefits and aims to offset high relocation costs while encouraging work in Israel.Standard 10-Year Tax Exemption on Foreign-Sourced Income:
- Passive income (interest, dividends, rentals, capital gains) from abroad remains fully exempt for 10 years.
- Active foreign income may also qualify in many cases.
Important Change from January 1, 2026:
- New olim must report worldwide income and assets annually (even if exempt). No more 10-year reporting exemption.
This incentive is a “temporary order” limited to 2026 arrivals—arriving earlier or later may not qualify for the zero-tax period.2. Absorption Basket (Sal Klita)Provided by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, this is a direct financial grant to cover initial living expenses.
- Paid in 6 monthly installments (first partial payment often at the airport or soon after).
- Amounts vary by family status, age, and location (higher in priority areas like Negev/Galilee).
- Tax-free and deposited into an Israeli bank account.
- Typical totals: NIS 20,000–50,000+ for individuals/families (exact calculator on Nefesh B’Nefesh or gov.il sites).
If you leave Israel during the first 6 months, payments pause but resume upon return (within the first year).3. Rental Assistance
- Starts from the 7th month after Aliyah (for post-March 2024 arrivals).
- Up to 30 months eligibility.
- Monthly subsidy based on family size, location, and income.
- Extra support for national priority areas (Negev, Galilee, periphery).
- Other Key Benefits
- Free or Subsidized Hebrew Ulpan → Intensive language courses.
- Health Insurance → Free basic coverage via a Kupat Cholim (health fund) for the first 6–12 months.
- Customs Exemptions → Duty-free import of household goods, one vehicle per family.
- Property Purchase Discounts → Reduced purchase tax (mas rechisha) on first home.
- Mortgage Assistance → Eligibility for favorable loans.
- Employment Support → Job placement help, professional licensing fast-tracking (especially for doctors via IMAP program).
- Flight Assistance → Free one-way flights via Nefesh B’Nefesh (for North Americans/UK) or Jewish Agency.
- Additional Government Initiatives
- Emergency absorption plans target 30,000+ olim in 2026, with streamlined eligibility (30-day processing), multilingual support, and integration programs.
- Programs for specific groups (e.g., medical professionals, high-tech talent).
Recommendations These incentives make 2026 an exceptionally attractive year for Aliyah, especially for professionals earning in Israel. However, the new reporting rules add compliance burdens—consult a tax advisor early.For personalized calculations:
- Use the Sal Klita calculator on Nefesh B’Nefesh (nbn.org.il).
- Contact the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration (gov.il) or organizations like Nefesh B’Nefesh/Jewish Agency for guidance.
If you’re planning Aliyah, now is the time to start the process—your homeland is ready to welcome you with open arms and substantial support!
