Is Ashkelon Safe? Rockets, Sirens, and Real Risk Explained (Israel 2023–2026) By Stephen Epstein Many people think Ashkelon is dangerous due to rocket sirens. This data-based guide explains why Ashkelon is often safer than many popular Anglo cities in Israel. When English speakers search for cities in Israel, one concern dominates: “Is Ashkelon safe [...]

Ashkelon has become one of Israel’s most discussed “value” coastal markets—offering beachfront living at prices far below Tel Aviv or Herzliya. But for investors, the key question isn’t just affordability—it’s return on investment (ROI). And in Ashkelon, the price you pay has a direct and sometimes surprising impact on your yield. The Reality of [...]

Living in Ashkelon, especially near the Marina, comes with one of its greatest advantages: sea air, open views, and usable outdoor space. But that same proximity to the coast brings a less obvious risk that many residents underestimate: strong, sudden wind events that can turn unsecured balcony furniture into dangerous projectiles. The Coastal Wind [...]

Clients who purchased apartments in a new Ashkelon complex approach me and ask me to find them a tenant. Obviously, the landlord wants the highest rent possible. They hear about other apartments that fetched high prices and assume that they will also obtain similar rents. But not all the rumors are correct and sometimes [...]

I receive many questions from property owners about buying apartments to make into BNBs. Does it make sense from a financial point of view? This article addresses the various options and does the math for you. We have two scenarios; renting on an annual basis or furnishing the apartment and making it into a [...]

Pinui Binui (פינוי בינוי) is an Israeli urban renewal process that means “evacuation and rebuilding.” It involves demolishing older residential buildings—typically low-rise structures from the 1950s–1980s—and replacing them with new, modern buildings that are larger, safer, and more efficient. Property owners in the original buildings temporarily move out while a developer constructs the new [...]

Renting an Ashkelon apartment for the long term used to feel relatively straightforward: find a place you like, sign a lease, and settle in. But today’s market is more complicated. Many property owners are not traditional long-term landlords, they are investors navigating uncertainty. Some are holding onto newly purchased apartments while waiting for prices [...]

In Israel’s fast-moving real estate market, it is common for buyers and renters to be asked to sign a “Request for Brokerage Services” form before being shown a property. While many people view this as a mere formality, or even an inconvenience, it is, in fact, a cornerstone of Israeli real estate law and [...]

In Israel, rent is only one part of the tenant’s financial commitment. Landlords typically require a combination of ongoing payments and financial guarantees, and many of these are regulated under the Fair Rental Law (חוק שכירות הוגנת). Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s standard—and what the law allows. What Landlords Expect In Addition to [...]

Sea-view apartments in Ashkelon are among the most searched-for property types in Israel’s southern coastal market. With direct Mediterranean frontage, modern towers and strong rental demand, they often carry a significant price premium. But the real question for buyers, investors and tenants is simple: are sea-view apartments in Ashkelon actually worth the extra cost, [...]

In property management, most problems develop slowly: delayed rent, maintenance disputes or gradual wear and tear. But occasionally, something happens that is far more disruptive; a tenant simply disappears. This is a real-world type of case that property managers in coastal Israeli cities, including Ashkelon, encounter more often than most owners expect. It is [...]

I have heard from clients who do not live in their Ashkelon apartments and when they come after an extended absence, they find that the oven is blowing a fuse.

We get many requests for information on "mechanical Shabbat locks" for front doors. There are advantages and disadvantages and before you ask someone to install one, read this article and watch the videos.

People enjoy tiyulim (tours) in Israel because they offer a unique blend of nature, history, and culture that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether hiking through the deserts of the Negev, exploring ancient archaeological sites, or walking scenic trails in the Galilee, each tiyul connects participants to the land and its rich story. Tiyulim are also a chance to spend quality time with family or friends, reflect spiritually, and experience Israel’s diverse landscapes in a personal and meaningful way. The sense of adventure, discovery, and connection makes tiyulim a beloved part of Israeli life.

Reaching retirement age marks a significant life transition, offering the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the fruits of decades of work. It’s also a time to explore new interests, engage in community life, and prioritize well-being and personal fulfillment.

הגעה לגיל פרישה מסמנת מעבר משמעותי בחיים, המציע הזדמנות להאט את הקצב, להרהר וליהנות מפירותיהם של עשרות שנים של עבודה. זהו גם זמן לחקור תחומי עניין חדשים, לעסוק בחיי קהילה ולתעדף רווחה והגשמה אישית.

Israeli folk dancing is a joyful and unifying expression of Israeli culture, blending tradition, music, and movement into a communal art form that brings people together across generations.

Ashkelon, part of Israel’s Southern District, benefits from Israel’s universal, state‑funded healthcare system established under the 1995 National Health Insurance Law. Every resident must belong to one of four HMOs—Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, or Leumit—each providing a mandated package of essential health services such as primary care, hospitalization, preventive medicine, mental healthcare, and more.  This ensures that both routine and specialized medical needs are accessible to residents in and around Ashkelon.

Ashkelon National Park, located on Israel’s southern Mediterranean coast, is a remarkable blend of natural beauty and archaeological significance. The park covers an area of about 150 acres and includes one of the oldest known seaports in the world. Its cliffs, sand dunes, and open grassy areas offer scenic picnic spots and views of the sea, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The combination of lush greenery and ancient ruins creates a unique atmosphere that reflects thousands of years of continuous human settlement.

You moved to Ashkelon and someone on the Anglo Community WhatsApp group tells you to pick it up at Silver or you can find it at Giron. Consider this page as your "primer" on where to find the major stores and shopping areas. This is an ongoing project of listing popular shopping places in [...]

Rosh Chodesh—the beginning of a new month in the Jewish calendar—is considered a minor holiday, and traditionally holds special significance for women. While not as widely observed as other Jewish festivals, its association with women is rooted in midrashic and halachic sources and continues to inspire various customs and spiritual practices today.

We are asked by visitors and people interested in moving to Ashkelon what the options are for Synagogues. Below is a list of some of the Ashkenazi shuls. As we receive more shul profiles, we will add them.

Every Thursday morning, when most people are just starting their days, a dirt lot next to Shufersal Deal in Migdal is transformed into a large flea market.

Barnea is one of the most popular and rapidly growing neighborhoods in Ashkelon, located in the northern part of the city near the Mediterranean coastline. Originally developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Barnea was planned as a modern, spacious residential area intended to attract middle-class families and young professionals. Its layout features wide boulevards, modern apartment buildings, and private homes, many of which offer views of the sea or easy walking access to the beach. The neighborhood was named after Barnea Farm, which once existed in the area before Ashkelon expanded northward.

The Shimshon (or Atikot) neighborhood in Ashkelon is one of the city's oldest established residential areas, located near the coastline and adjacent to the Ashkelon National Park.

The Marina is actually the area on the shore of Ashkelon where there the boats are docked. The Marina district run from the shores of the Mediterranean on the west to HaTayasim Street on the east. It consists of only eight to ten streets and has apartments that classified as residential as well as “Dirat Nofesh” (vacation apartments). Yefe Nof Street is the main drag of the Marina district and is close to the Marina, Marina mall and a few synagogues.

If you can't find a home in Afridar, the city neighborhood just south of Afridar is Eshkolei Paz offers similar types of homes.

In the days after the creation of the State of Israel, South African Jewry approached the new Israeli government about building a new city. The result was the city of Afridar, which merged with Migdal area to become the modern city of Ashkelon.

HaCity is just that, a city within a city. HaCity is close to the Anglo area, Synagogues, Barzilai Hospital, banks, supermarket, hardware store and services. It's a great place for anyone without a car.

Putting money in the bank, until recently, gave little to no interest and did not offer any appreciation of capital. It was a no brainer to put money into buying apartments. Not only did they produce an income stream of 3 to 4 percent, but that income, as long as it was below a certain threshold, was tax free.

בשנת 2011, ראש עיריית אשקלון דאז, בני וקנין, הוביל יוזמות אמנות חדשות במרכזי הקהילה בעיר, והשיק את פרויקט התיאטרון "קדם-אשקלון" לצד תוכניות מקהלה עירוניות. קדם-אשקלון פועל במסגרת מרכזים רב-תכליתיים מקומיים ("מתנסים"), ומציע חללי חזרות, תמיכה אדמיניסטרטיבית וציוד במה - ובכך מבטיח שלפעילות תיאטרלית עממית יהיה בית מקצועי שממנו תוכל לצמוח.

In 2011, Ashkelon’s then-mayor Beni Vaknin spearheaded new arts initiatives within the city’s community centers, launching the “Kedem-Ashkelon” theater project alongside citywide choir programs . Kedem-Ashkelon operates within local multipurpose centers (‘matnasim’), offering rehearsal spaces, administrative support, and stage equipment—ensuring grassroots theatrical activity has a professional home from which to grow.

During a shiva, mourners often need help with practical tasks such as preparing meals, arranging Minyanim, or managing the household. Emotional support, a listening ear, and simply being present can also provide great comfort during this time of grief.

While the supply of unsold new homes hits records in Israel, Ashkelon again is in the top list of second-hand apartment sales.  There are many second-hand apartments in Ashkelon with great value and you don’t have to be a millionaire to buy one. Stephen Epstein would be happy to connect you with sellers.

I am often asked why staying at a BNB in Israel is so expensive. It seems hard to understand when you compare staying at a BNB in other countries to an Israeli apartment.

Globes posted an article about an American buyer who paid 4.37 million NIS for a 132 square meter, five-room 20th floor apartment with a 28-square meter balcony. The apartment overlooks the Ashkelon Marina.

A new program is being launched to help recently arrived residents integrate into the existing English-speaking community of Ashkelon.

Before you pack your beach chair and put on your bathing suit, it might be a good idea to check with the people on the famous Ashkelon Community WhatsApp Group to see what the flag is at the beach.

Ashkelon and the surrounding area have many amazing restaurants. With so many new residents and people visiting the city, we created a new section on the Ashkelon123 website for listings of restaurants and bakeries. Each listing has the address, hours and type of food served. You can sort the list by the cuisine, kosher status or ratings.

With so many amazing English speaking communities in Israel, how does a 50+ English speaking individual or couple choose where to live? There are so many options, but when you deep dive into the various communities, the list becomes shorter.

Yes, there is free parking for Ashkelon seniors! You must apply for a virtual tag in order to use it. Read how...

One of the first things that you will need to do is to transfer Arnona (property tax), gas, electricity and water to your name. The process is not difficult, but may require some patience.

Anyone visiting Ashkelon over the short winter months will notice thousands of deciduous trees, with dried out bean pods, empty of almost all leaves. But by springtime, they explode in a blaze of color. With thousands of Flamboyant trees in Ashkelon, they transform the city into a color-filled landscape that is unique to Ashkelon.

Navigating the world of home financing can be complex. Break down the jargon, understand your options, and embark on your buying journey with confidence.

When you buy a new apartment in a project, the builder usually provides extra ceramic tiles. Read this before you break a tile to do a repair.

As would be expected, the price of rentals in Israel remained stagnant. But, as of March 20 2024 the rents increased greatly pushing up the housing service index by 5.5 %.

When my wife and I moved to Ashkelon, we were surprised that it was not on the radar screens of most English speakers. Perhaps they never visited the city while on a gap year program or accidentally confused it with Ashdod, which is about 20 minutes away. I decided to change that and let people know about our amazing city.