Nearly three-quarters of Israeli workers say they are considering relocating abroad, according to a new survey, as the war in Gaza stretches into its second year and security concerns intensify following the conflict with Iran.
The survey, conducted by the Israeli employment platform AllJobs, found that 73% of respondents are weighing relocation—a significant increase of 18% compared to last year. It marks the first time in five years that more than 70% of Israeli workers have expressed interest in leaving the country, even if temporarily.
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New York City was the most popular city choice for relocation by Israelis
(Photo: AP/Ted Shaffrey)
The reasons for considering a move abroad are shifting. While traditional motivations such as higher quality of life (59%), international experience (48%) and career advancement (38%) remain dominant, new factors are emerging. Thirty percent cited personal safety concerns, 24% pointed to political instability, and another 24% said they felt disappointment with the state—though the level of disappointment has declined compared to recent years.
“We’re seeing a fundamental change in how employees view relocation,” said Liat Ben-Torah Shoshan, vice president for career development and placement at AllJobs. “It’s no longer just a strategic career decision—it’s increasingly driven by emotional, security and economic considerations.”
The United States remains the top destination for Israelis considering relocation, with 44% listing it as their preferred country. New York City was the most popular city choice (17%), followed by Los Angeles (11%) and Miami (8%).
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Europe attracted just 26% of respondents, a drop from previous years. The decline may reflect growing concerns about antisemitism and demographic shifts across the continent. Some respondents also expressed interest in nearby destinations such as Greece and Cyprus (11%), while Australia and New Zealand (6%), the Far East (8%) and Africa (1%) received lower levels of interest.
Despite the appeal, many Israelis are wary of the challenges involved in relocating. Fifty-six percent said the process, while appealing, is far from simple—an increase from previous surveys. Another 27% expressed envy toward those who have already made the move.
The survey polled 611 Israeli workers aged 22 and older from across the country.