Israelis Show Mixed Feelings on Public Transport, Jerusalem Leads Satisfaction

A new social survey by Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) for 2025 reveals that while public perception of public transportation remains mixed, satisfaction levels have seen notable shifts, particularly in Jerusalem.

Overall, approximately 52% of Israelis aged 20 and above view bus services positively, a decrease from about 59% a decade ago. However, Jerusalem stands out as the only region where satisfaction increased, rising from 59% to 62%. In contrast, Tel Aviv saw a drop from 58% to 52% in bus service satisfaction.

Despite the slight decline in overall satisfaction, about 50% of Israelis aged 20 and above used buses in 2025, with the highest usage among those under 24 (73%). Daily bus ridership has decreased slightly, with 15% reporting daily use compared to 19% in 2015, possibly due to increased availability of other options like trains and light rail. A significant 56% of users feel they can reach their destinations within a reasonable time, with Jerusalem showing a marked improvement from 44% to 58% over the past decade. Proximity to bus stops is highly satisfactory for 82% of users, with Beer Sheva (92%) and Tel Aviv (91%) leading, while 71% are pleased with bus maintenance. Satisfaction with intercity bus frequency is lower, at 31% nationally, ranging from 29% in Tel Aviv to 50% in Bnei Brak.

Regarding Israel Railways, 44% of Israelis over 20 used the train in 2025, and 66% rate its performance positively, an increase from 58% ten years prior. Jerusalem residents are particularly satisfied with rail services (73%), surpassing Tel Aviv (64%), although Tel Aviv residents use the train more frequently (48% vs. 41%). Similarly, Jerusalem residents express higher satisfaction with the light rail (50%) compared to Tel Aviv (28%) and other central cities (42%-46%).

Despite improvements and higher satisfaction in certain areas, private car usage for commuting has increased to 62% in 2025 from 58% a decade ago, with only 16% using buses and 22% other means. Jerusalem, despite a decrease from 30% to 23%, still has the highest public transport commute rate. Internet services on public transport are considered adequate by about 50% of users.

In conclusion, the survey suggests that public satisfaction with transportation services is higher than its negative reputation might imply, with Jerusalem residents consistently reporting greater satisfaction than those in Tel Aviv across various metrics. Nevertheless, the majority of Israelis continue to opt for private vehicles for their daily commutes.