Finding Your Place in the Holy City

By Arnie Draiman

Jerusalem’s Most Popular Anglo Neighborhoods

Making aliyah is a major move, but finding your community can make all the difference. For English-speaking olim considering a move to Israel, Jerusalem is often the easiest city in which to feel at home. With an estimated 50,000 English speakers, there are numerous neighborhoods where it is natural to hear English spoken.

While learning Hebrew is an important part of integrating into Israeli society, many new immigrants appreciate beginning their Israeli journey in a community where neighbors understand both their language and cultural background. These communities provide support systems, schools and social networks for adults and children alike that help make the transition to life in Israel significantly easier.

The greatest concentration of English speakers has traditionally been in the southern part of the city. Most of these neighborhoods also rank among Jerusalem’s more desirable, and therefore more expensive, areas. Each, however, has developed its own personality and appeals to different types of residents.

All of the neighborhoods listed below offer privately owned apartment living, a mix of new builds and old-style Jerusalem buildings. These buildings offer a variety of options that can include garden apartments, rooftop access areas, underground parking, a dedicated storage room, and more. And the newer builds will all have an in-apartment safe room (mamad). 

The following neighborhoods have become the heart of Jerusalem’s Anglo community and all offer a high level of Jewish religious life. There are many synagogues in each of these areas and most have a full program of shiurim and activities all week long. 

German Colony  (Moshava Germanit)

Known for its beautiful stone homes, tree-lined streets and historic charm, the neighborhood attracts Modern Orthodox families, professionals and retirees looking for an immediate sense of community.

Its greatest attraction is its proximity to Emek Refaim, one of Jerusalem’s most vibrant commercial streets filled with coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, bakeries, bookstores, jewelry stores and neighborhood shops.

Prospective residents should be aware, however, that Emek Refaim is currently undergoing major infrastructure work as Jerusalem’s light rail system expands. Construction is expected to continue for the next year and a half, likely through most of 2028, bringing temporary inconvenience but promising improved transportation access in the future.

The neighborhood also offers:

→ Numerous English-speaking synagogues with a wide variety of religious styles

→ Convenient public transportation to almost all parts of Jerusalem

→  A mature community infrastructure that eases settling into Israeli life 

Baka

A home in Talbiya

Just south of the German Colony and across the old train tracks lies Baka, which many consider one of Jerusalem’s strongest family-oriented Anglo communities. The neighborhood attracts religious and traditional families, young professionals who appreciate its relaxed residential atmosphere.

Among Baka’s greatest strengths are:

→ A genuine neighborhood feeling

→ Excellent schools

→ Numerous Anglo-friendly synagogues

→ English commonly heard throughout the neighborhood

Residents also enjoy easy access to both Emek Refaim and the bustling commercial areas along Derech Beit Lechem and Derech Hevron, giving them a wide variety of shopping, dining and transportation options.

Rehavia and Talbiyah

Rehavia and neighboring Talbiyah offer a very different experience from the more family-centered southern neighborhoods. These areas have long been associated with Jerusalem’s intellectual elite. Beautiful historic homes, elegant tree-lined streets, embassies and cultural institutions give the neighborhoods a distinctly classic Jerusalem atmosphere.

Their central location is within walking distance of downtown Jerusalem, museums, government institutions and many of the city’s cultural attractions. Unlike some neighborhoods that function almost as Anglo enclaves, Rehavia tends to have a more mixed population, allowing newcomers to enjoy an English-speaking community while naturally interacting with Hebrew-speaking Israelis as well.

Old Katamon

Old Katamon has quietly become one of Jerusalem’s fastest-growing Anglo neighborhoods while maintaining its long-established character. Its streets combine longtime Israeli residents with young Anglo families, students and professionals, creating one of the city’s most dynamic communities.

The neighborhood offers:

→ A central location

→ Strong community life

→ Numerous synagogues representing many traditions

→ A healthy mix of English and Hebrew speakers

Many olim find Old Katamon particularly attractive because it provides an easier transition into Israeli society than living inside a nearly all-English environment. Old Katamon continues to attract both first-time buyers and long-term residents, making it one of Jerusalem’s most balanced neighborhoods.

Arnona, Talpiot and Armon HaNatziv

Among Jerusalem’s fastest-growing destinations for English-speaking families are Arnona, Talpiot and nearby Armon HaNatziv.

Although Arnona and Talpiot are distinct neighborhoods, they border one another and share many characteristics. It is also important to distinguish residential Talpiot from the old Talpiot Industrial Area (which is now most commonly referred to as just “Talpiot”) and is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation into a mixed-use district with new businesses, residential towers and commercial development.

Arnona and Talpiot neighborhoods generally appeal to younger families and new olim due to its slightly more affordable housing than German Colony or Baka.

Residents appreciate:

→ Newer apartment buildings

→ Strong family infrastructure

→ Good transportation

Armon HaNatziv

Armon HaNatziv has become increasingly attractive due to its value. Apartments often cost less than neighboring areas while offering significantly more space. 

The neighborhood is also near the Haas Promenade (Tayelet) and many apartments overlook the Judean Desert and the Judean Hills, some of Jerusalem’s most spectacular scenery.

Residents also appreciate:

→ Quiet streets

→ Convenient access to Talpiot and Arnona

→ Better parking

→ Larger apartments

→ A stronger balance between affordability and quality of life

Perhaps most importantly, Armon HaNatziv appeals to olim who want some English-speaking community without living entirely inside an Anglo bubble. It encourages gradual Hebrew immersion while still offering familiar social support.

Har Nof

Near the entrance to the city on the Tel Aviv road, Har Nof has become home to one of Jerusalem’s largest American ultra-Orthodox populations. It offers one of the city’s densest religious infrastructures, including countless synagogues, kollelim, educational institutions and community organizations.

Many newcomers find they can establish an active social network almost immediately. Compared with many southern neighborhoods, Har Nof also offers somewhat greater affordability, particularly for larger families seeking more living space. 

Nachlaot

Although not usually considered a classic Anglo neighborhood, Nachlaot has become increasingly popular among younger English speakers, students, artists, musicians and creative professionals. Located adjacent to the Machane Yehuda Market and downtown Jerusalem, its narrow alleyways, historic courtyards and eclectic atmosphere give it a character unlike anywhere else in the city.

Residents are drawn by:

→ Walking distance to downtown

→ Vibrant coffee culture

→ Artistic community

→ Historic charm

→ A unique blend of old Jerusalem and modern urban life

English is certainly heard throughout the neighborhood, and Nachlaot is also more of a diverse collection of Israelis and internationals who appreciate its distinctive personality.

Which Neighborhood Is Right for You?

Choosing a neighborhood depends largely on your priorities. One of Jerusalem’s greatest strengths is that there is no single “right” neighborhood for English speakers. Whether your focus is affordability, walkability, religious community, family life, nightlife, beautiful views or cultural integration, the city offers an Anglo community to match almost every lifestyle.

The best advice for anyone considering aliyah or relocating within Jerusalem is simple: Spend time walking the neighborhoods, visit their coffee shops and parks, spend a Shabbat there, attend a synagogue, and speak with local residents. Every neighborhood has its own rhythm and personality. Ultimately, the best Jerusalem neighborhood is the one that feels most like home while helping you build your own uniquely Israeli future.

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Arnie Draiman is a philanthropic consultant helping people and foundations give their tzedaka money away wisely, efficiently and effectively for over 25 years. He is a tzedaka educator and teaches all about tzedaka and chesed. In addition, he consults hi-tech startups and is an expert in social media marketing and promotion. He can be reached at: ajdraiman@gmail.com