Ultra-Orthodox Communities Expand Beyond Kiryat Sanz in Netanya

While Netanya is often perceived as a secular tourist city known for its beaches and modern towers, a diverse and growing ultra-Orthodox population has established itself in various neighborhoods over the years. Beyond the well-known Kiryat Sanz, which was founded in 1955 and serves as a global center for the Sanz Hasidic dynasty, other areas are becoming increasingly populated by Haredi families.

Due to limited housing availability within Kiryat Sanz, Hasidic families have begun purchasing apartments in adjacent streets, effectively expanding the ultra-Orthodox presence beyond the original neighborhood. This expansion signifies a shift in residential patterns for the community.

Meanwhile, the Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox community is concentrated in the city center, particularly around Avraham Shapira, Yehuda Halevi, and Leivontin streets. This area hosts around 100 families and features essential institutions like synagogues, kindergartens, Talmud Torahs, and Kollels, creating a vibrant Haredi environment.

Additionally, the Ramat Ephraim area, characterized by private homes and villas, is seeing an influx of Haredi families, including those of Kollel members. These families are drawn to the higher quality of life and are willing to pay premium prices, around 3.5 million shekels for a villa, while remaining within proximity to Haredi educational institutions.

The article notes that real estate prices in the central area range from over 2 million shekels for a four-room apartment, with rental costs between 4,500 to 6,500 shekels per month. The report indicates that this is the first of a series exploring the Haredi presence in Netanya, with future installments to cover areas further south.