Cost Comparison 2025

Tel AvivvsAustin

Israel
United States

Overall

💰

-15.6%

Tel Aviv is 15.6%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-7.1%

Housing is 7.1% lower

Dining

🍽️

-21.1%

Restaurants 21.1% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-5.9%

Food shopping 5.9% less

Comparing the cost of living between Tel Aviv, Israel and Austin, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tel Aviv is more affordable than Austin by approximately 15.6%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Tel Aviv are higher than in Austin by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tel Aviv's city center costs around ₪6,000, while the same in Austin is approximately $2,000.

Dining out in Tel Aviv is notably more expensive compared to Austin. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₪60 in Tel Aviv versus $16 in Austin.

Public transportation in Tel Aviv is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₪213 compared to $41 in Austin.

Purchasing power in Austin is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Tel Aviv.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Tel Aviv can expect to spend approximately ₪2,001 per month (excluding rent), while in Austin, the same lifestyle would cost around $531. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₪7,004 monthly in Tel Aviv versus $1,859 in Austin. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Tel Aviv, Israel
Austin, United States

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
₪6,000
$2,000
1BR Outside Center
₪4,500
$1,600
3BR City Center
₪10,000
$3,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
₪60
$16
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
₪300
$85
Cappuccino
₪15
$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
₪30
$6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
₪6
$1
Bread (500g)
₪8
$3
Eggs (12)
₪15
$4
Cheese (1kg)
₪50
$11

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
₪6
$1
Monthly Pass
₪213
$41
Taxi Start
₪12
$3
Gasoline (1L)
₪8
$1

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
₪550
$140
Internet (60 Mbps)
₪100
$60
Mobile Minute
₪0
$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Austin to Tel Aviv, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Tel Aviv to Austin requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Tel Aviv

Cost of Living Index90
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index85

Austin

Cost of Living Index76
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tel Aviv more expensive than Austin?

No, Tel Aviv is approximately 15.6% cheaper than Austin. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Tel Aviv compared to Austin?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Austin salary when living in Tel Aviv. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Austin, you'd need about $43,269 in Tel Aviv for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Tel Aviv and Austin?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 27%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Austin offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Tel Aviv provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Tel Aviv if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Austin for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tel Aviv vs Austin?

In Tel Aviv, a single person needs approximately ₪6,501 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₪14,504. In Austin, these figures are $2,131 for singles and $4,659 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Tel Aviv and Austin in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Austin to maintain your lifestyle from Tel Aviv

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers