Cost of Living in Palestine

The cost of living in Palestine varies significantly between urban centers like Ramallah and more rural areas. This guide provides an overview of typical monthly expenses for individuals and families.

Housing Costs

Housing is typically the largest monthly expense. Rental prices vary by location and property type:

• City Center Apartment (1-bedroom): ILS 1,500-3,000 per month
• City Center Apartment (3-bedroom): ILS 3,000-6,000 per month
• Outside City Center (1-bedroom): ILS 1,000-2,000 per month
• Outside City Center (3-bedroom): ILS 2,000-4,000 per month
• Utilities (electricity, water, garbage): ILS 300-700 per month

Food and Groceries

Food costs are moderate compared to regional averages:

• Monthly grocery bill (single person): ILS 800-1,500
• Monthly grocery bill (family of four): ILS 2,000-4,000
• Meal at inexpensive restaurant: ILS 30-60
• Three-course meal for two (mid-range): ILS 150-300
• Loaf of bread: ILS 3-5
• Milk (1 liter): ILS 5-8

Transportation

• Local bus ticket (one-way): ILS 3-7
• Monthly public transport pass: ILS 200-400
• Taxi (per km): ILS 3-5
• Fuel (gasoline per liter): ILS 6-8

Healthcare

• Private health insurance (individual): ILS 200-500 per month
• General practitioner visit: ILS 100-200
• Dental cleaning: ILS 150-300

Education

• Private international school (annual): ILS 15,000-40,000
• Public schools: Free of charge

Entertainment and Leisure

• Cinema ticket: ILS 30-50
• Gym membership: ILS 150-350 per month
• Internet (60 Mbps+): ILS 100-200 per month
• Mobile phone plan (prepaid, per month): ILS 50-150

Summary for Expatriates

A single expatriate can expect monthly expenses of approximately ILS 3,500-6,000 excluding rent, or ILS 5,500-9,000 including rent. A family of four should budget approximately ILS 8,000-14,000 per month including rent.