Modi’in
Region: Central District
City Type: Major City
Population: 93,000
Demographics: Young Families, Families, Retirees
Religious Makeup: Chabad, Chardal, Conservative, Dati Leumi, Reform, Secular
Affordability: $$$$$ (range 1 to 5)
Climate
Average Temperatures
| Day | Night | |
| January | 16C/61F | 6C/43F |
| August | 31C/88F | 21C/70F |
The average annual percentage of humidity is around 60%
Modi'in
Overview
Modi’in, formally known as Modi’in-Maccabim-Re’ut, is a city located almost midway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (which are 65 kilometers (41 miles) apart. Modi’in is a well-planned city whose population has grown dramatically since its organization in 1996. The location, less than an hour’s drive from the more costly Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, makes it especially attractive to residents seeking a high standard of living in a modern environment that preserves the area’s natural green spaces. The general population is a diverse range of religiosity. The city has a predominantly Dati high percentage of English speakers.
Housing
Architecture is appealing, and mainly consists of apartment complexes of a consistent modern style. Neighborhoods offer almost all that locals need, with shopping and dining suited to the local religious profile.
Housing prices vary widely, based on location, features, and condition, but recent searches yielded these prices for apartment rentals and purchases:
Type | Size (Sq. Meters) | Rent | Purchase |
2 Bedroom | 70m2-110m2 | ₪4,300-₪4,750 | ₪1,570,000-₪2,100,000 |
4 Bedroom | 90m2-140m2 | ₪6,500-₪7,900 | ₪2,095,000-₪3,950,000 |
Transportation
Transportation is a major feature of Modi’in, a stop on the high-speed rail between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Private car ownership is high, and highways offer access to nearby and distant cities. Local and intercity public bus service is good, and city areas that are not convenient by bus are served by taxi services.
Employment
While there is some local employment in medicine, education and local shops, the majority of workers commute to either Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. There is a local industrial park with some opportunities, and nearby locations, such as Beit Shemesh also have some jobs.
Education
Education is a high point for Modi’in, especially for Olim. A single 5-month intensive Ulpan program for arriving students helps assure a smooth transition before transfer to local schools. The Gan, elementary, middle, and high-school choices mirror the varied population and neighborhoods, with a good selection of religious and secular schools. Proximity to other cities provides a wide range of options for older students who can commute. Post-secondary education abounds in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other nearby locations.
Services for Olim
Most post-Aliyah services are offered in Modi’in, including local access to the Ministries of the Interior, and Aliyah and Integration. A variety of Ulpan programs are local, but higher levels may require a commute to nearby cities. The city has a department to assist Olim, (Modiin Municipal Absorption Department) and English-language lectures on a variety of topics useful to new immigrants are presented regularly. The municipal website is available in English.
Community/Religious Life
A large variety of Orthodox congregations represent Ahkenazi, Sefaradi, and Yemenite traditions, along with Conservative, Egalitarian, and Reform congregations. Local synagogue, school, and organizational offerings make Modi’in a very community-oriented place. The city’s community center and cultural center add to the options, as do Torah education programs for English speakers. Local libraries stock books in both Hebrew and English. Olim clubs in various languages offer excursions and other activities.
Amenities & Attractions
The city is designed to preserve green space, which makes up about half the local area. Parks abound, as do walking and biking trails. A local amphitheater situated on a man-made lake that attracts a variety of bird species offers concerts and other gatherings. The local area is dotted with historical and archeological sites of interest. A local mall offers a choice of shopping and dining options.
More Information
Information on this page includes many sources, including Nefesh B’Nefesh and Wikipedia. More information can be found at:
Modi’in Municipal Website – modiin.muni.il
Anglo List Modi’in – anglo-list.com/aliyah-information/destinations/modiin
Modiin Municipal Absorption Department
Modi’in App Online Resource – modiinapp.com
Our Modi’in Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/ourmodiinourmodiin