Living in Herzliya: Silicon Beach Meets Luxury Living
The Tech Hub by the Sea: My Herzliya Story
Five years ago, when I accepted a position at a tech startup in Herzliya Pituach's bustling high-tech park, I wasn't sure what to expect from this coastal city just north of Tel Aviv. Would it be merely a sleepy suburb? A business district with no soul? What I discovered instead was Israel's unique blend of Silicon Valley ambition and Mediterranean relaxation – a place where cutting-edge innovation happens steps from pristine beaches.
Herzliya (pronounced her-tse-LEE-ya) has become my home, and I've watched it evolve into one of Israel's most desirable addresses. This insider's guide shares what makes this city special and what you need to know if you're considering making the move.
Herzliya: Where Innovation Meets Luxury
Named after Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern Zionism, Herzliya is effectively two distinct cities with one municipal government:
Herzliya City - The original urban center with a population of approximately 100,000, featuring residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and cultural venues.
Herzliya Pituach (Developed Herzliya) - The coastal district that includes Israel's largest high-tech industrial park, the country's most prestigious marina, luxury hotels, and some of the most expensive real estate in Israel.
This duality creates a unique living experience where academic excellence, technological innovation, and laid-back beach culture coexist within minutes of each other.
A Day in the Life: From Tech Park to Sunset Sailing
My typical Herzliya day begins with a short commute to the high-tech park, where global tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Google have established R&D centers alongside hundreds of startups and venture capital firms. The atmosphere buzzes with innovation – it's not unusual to overhear conversations about AI breakthroughs or the latest funding round while waiting for your morning coffee.
Lunchtime offers a choice between sleek corporate cafeterias, trendy restaurants catering to the tech crowd, or quick bites at nearby Seven Stars Mall. The truly privileged might slip away for a business lunch overlooking the Mediterranean at one of the marina's upscale restaurants.
After work, especially during summer, the beaches fill with a mix of families, young professionals unwinding after work, and kitesurfing enthusiasts taking advantage of the perfect wind conditions. The marina area transforms from a business lunch venue to an evening hotspot, with waterfront dining and bars attracting a cosmopolitan crowd.
Weekends in Herzliya center around outdoor activities – sailing from the marina, cycling along the coastal paths, brunching at beachfront cafes, or exploring the nature reserves that surprisingly exist within this developed city.
Herzliya's Distinct Neighborhoods
Herzliya Pituach: Prestige and Beachfront Luxury
Herzliya Pituach is unquestionably the crown jewel – a coastal neighborhood featuring luxurious villas, high-end apartment complexes, and some of Israel's most valuable real estate. The area attracts wealthy Israelis, foreign diplomats (many embassies are located here), tech executives, and international residents seeking luxury living with beach access.
At its center lies the Herzliya Marina, Israel's largest marina with berths for 800 yachts surrounded by waterfront restaurants, boutiques, and the exclusive Arena Mall. The neighborhood's western edge features stunning Mediterranean beaches with a well-maintained promenade.
Properties here command premium prices, with sea-view penthouses ranging from $3-10 million and private villas starting at $5 million and reaching well into eight figures for prime locations.
"Living in Herzliya Pituach is like being on permanent vacation," shares Michael, a tech executive who relocated from Silicon Valley. "I walk to work at our R&D center, take lunch breaks on the beach, and spend evenings sailing. The lifestyle is unmatched."
Central Herzliya: The Heart of the City
Central Herzliya offers a more authentic Israeli urban experience with a mix of older neighborhoods and new developments:
Herzliya HaTseira (Young Herzliya) – The historical center features the original streets and some buildings dating back to the city's founding in 1924. Today it blends historic charm with modern amenities and attracts a diverse population.
Neve Amal and Neve Israel – Established neighborhoods with a mix of apartment buildings and some private homes, featuring good schools and community facilities. These areas offer more affordable options while maintaining good access to the city center.
Herzliya Heights (Ramat Herzliya) – Newer upscale developments on the eastern hills with modern apartment complexes, shopping centers, and excellent views. Popular with families seeking more space and amenities.
The Six Points (Sheshet HaKochavim) – The central business district where main boulevards intersect, featuring commercial centers, office buildings, and newer residential towers.
Green Herzliya: Suburban Comfort
The Eastern Neighborhoods offer a more suburban atmosphere with newer developments, more green spaces, and slightly more affordable housing options:
Neve Amirim – Family-oriented neighborhood with many private homes and newer apartment buildings, good schools, and parks.
Green Herzliya (Herzliya HaYeruka) – Newer eco-conscious development with emphasis on sustainable living, green spaces, and community planning.
Herzliya Hills – Upscale area with newer developments offering larger apartments and penthouses with views toward both the Mediterranean and the eastern hills.
The Housing Market: Luxury Comes at a Price
Herzliya consistently ranks among Israel's most expensive real estate markets, particularly in Herzliya Pituach. However, the central and eastern neighborhoods offer more diverse options:
Herzliya Pituach
Luxury Villas: ₪15-60 million ($4.2-17 million)
Sea View Apartments: ₪5-20 million ($1.4-5.6 million)
Standard Apartments: ₪3-7 million ($840,000-2 million)
Rental Prices: ₪7,000-25,000+ ($2,000-7,000+) monthly
Central Herzliya
New Construction: ₪2.5-5 million ($700,000-1.4 million)
Established Apartments: ₪2-3.5 million ($560,000-980,000)
Rental Prices: ₪4,500-9,000 ($1,260-2,520) monthly
Eastern Neighborhoods
Family Homes: ₪4-10 million ($1.1-2.8 million)
Newer Apartments: ₪2-4 million ($560,000-1.1 million)
Rental Prices: ₪4,000-8,000 ($1,120-2,240) monthly
For foreign buyers and renters, Herzliya is particularly accommodating, with real estate agents and property managers accustomed to international clients. The significant expatriate population means there's substantial inventory catering specifically to foreign residents, particularly in Herzliya Pituach.
"The price per square meter in Herzliya Pituach can rival Manhattan or Central London," notes Sarah, a local real estate agent. "But clients are paying for the complete package – weather, lifestyle, beach access, and proximity to Israel's tech ecosystem."
Education: Excellence from Kindergarten to University
Herzliya has established itself as an educational powerhouse, offering outstanding options from early childhood through higher education:
K-12 Education
Public Schools: Herzliya's public education system is considered among the best in Israel, with high matriculation rates and strong STEM programs
Specialized Schools: Including arts-focused, democratic, and technological tracks
International Schools: Several options for expatriate families, including:
Herzliya Hebrew Gymnasium International School: Bilingual Hebrew-English program
American International School: Full American curriculum
French International School: Following the French national curriculum
Higher Education
The jewel in Herzliya's educational crown is Reichman University (formerly IDC Herzliya), Israel's first private university and one of its most prestigious institutions. With programs taught entirely in English and a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, technology, and international relations, it attracts students from around the globe and maintains close ties with the neighboring high-tech industry.
"The proximity of Reichman University to the high-tech park creates a perfect ecosystem," explains Dr. Amit, a professor of computer science. "Our students intern at leading companies, executives guest lecture in our classrooms, and many startups are born right on campus."
The Tech Ecosystem: Israel's Silicon Valley
Herzliya Pituach is home to Israel's largest concentration of high-tech companies and the epicenter of the "Startup Nation" phenomenon:
High-Tech Park
Home to over 1,000 companies ranging from startups to multinational corporations
Major players include Apple, Microsoft, Google, IBM, and Meta
Dozens of venture capital firms and accelerators
Supporting businesses including law firms, accounting services, and recruitment agencies specializing in the tech industry
Business Culture
Fast-paced and innovative with flat hierarchies
Direct communication style typical of Israeli business culture
Work-hard-play-hard ethic with stunning beach proximity
International environment with English widely spoken
Casual dress code even for executives (the "startup uniform" of jeans and button-down shirts is standard)
Beyond Tech
While technology dominates, Herzliya's business landscape includes:
Financial services and banking
Law firms specializing in international and corporate law
Luxury retail and hospitality
Real estate development and management
Marine services around the marina
For job seekers, Herzliya offers Israel's highest average salaries, particularly in technology roles. The concentration of multinational companies also means more opportunities for foreign nationals to find sponsored positions.
Beach Life and Leisure: The Work-Life Balance
Herzliya's 7km coastline features some of Israel's most beautiful and well-maintained beaches:
Beaches
Accadia Beach: The main beach adjacent to the hotel strip, with full facilities and restaurant
Herzliya Pituach Beach: Pristine stretch with water sports and beachfront dining
Zevulun Beach: Popular with locals and families
Sydney Ali Beach: Quieter option with natural surroundings
Dog Beach: Dedicated section where pets can run free
The beaches are complemented by a beautiful coastal promenade connecting Herzliya to Tel Aviv, perfect for walking, running, or cycling with Mediterranean views.
Marina Life
The Herzliya Marina is more than just a place to dock yachts – it's a lifestyle center featuring:
Waterfront dining ranging from casual cafés to fine dining
The Arena Mall with luxury brands and boutique shopping
Sailing schools and boat rental services
Yacht clubs with regular races and events
Evening entertainment and nightlife
Outdoor Recreation
Beyond the beaches, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy:
Herzliya Park: Vast green space with walking paths, sports facilities, and artificial lake
Apollonia National Park: Ancient ruins overlooking the sea
Sharon Beach Nature Reserve: Protected coastal ecosystem
Tennis Country Club: Premier tennis facility with multiple courts
Cycling routes connecting to Tel Aviv and north along the coast
Cultural Life
While not matching Tel Aviv's cultural density, Herzliya offers:
Herzliya Museum of Contemporary Art: Showcasing Israeli and international artists
Ensemble Herzliya: Chamber music and classical performances
Cultural Center: Hosting performances, lectures, and events
Cinematheque: Independent and international films
Annual Jazz Festival: Drawing international performers
Dining and Nightlife: From Beachfront to Business Lunch
Herzliya's dining scene reflects its dual nature as both business hub and beach destination:
High-End Dining
Benedict Herzliya: One of Israel's most successful restaurant chains, famous for all-day breakfast
Herbert Samuel: Upscale dining with Mediterranean views
Bistro 56: French-inspired cuisine with extensive wine list
Nammos: Mediterranean cuisine in a beachfront setting
Segev: Chef restaurant with innovative Israeli cuisine
Marina Restaurants
Bistro Carmel: Waterfront dining with European influence
Ranch House: Steakhouse popular with business crowds
Café Café: Popular café chain with marina views
Pescado: Seafood restaurant overlooking the yachts
Yam 7: Beach restaurant with fresh seafood and sunset views
Casual Options
Seven Stars Mall Food Court: Diverse options from fast food to sit-down restaurants
Arena Mall Eateries: Upscale food court plus restaurants
Business district lunch spots: Catering to the tech crowd with quick, healthy options
Tech park cafeterias: Some companies have exceptional in-house dining open to all park employees
Nightlife
While not rivaling Tel Aviv's legendary scene, Herzliya offers:
Marina bars and lounges: Sophisticated options with waterfront seating
Hotel bars: Particularly at the Ritz-Carlton and Herzliya Hotel
Beach bars: Seasonal operations with sunset views
Wine bars: Several upscale options focusing on Israeli wines
For serious nightlife: Tel Aviv is just a 15-minute drive or taxi ride away
Transportation: Connected but Car-Friendly
Herzliya's transportation infrastructure offers good connections while being more accommodating to private cars than Tel Aviv:
Public Transportation
Trains: Herzliya train station connects to Tel Aviv (15 minutes), Haifa, and Ben Gurion Airport
Buses: Extensive network throughout the city and to surrounding areas
Sheruts (shared taxis): Operating on fixed routes with flexible stops
Driving
Major Highways: Quick access to Coastal Highway (Route 2) and Cross-Israel Highway (Route 6)
Parking: More available than in Tel Aviv, though limited in business districts during working hours
Traffic: Morning congestion into the high-tech park and evening outflow
Alternative Transportation
Cycling: Extensive bike paths, particularly along the coast
Electric Scooters: Rental services operating throughout the city
Walking: Beach areas and city center are pedestrian-friendly
Taxis and Ride-sharing: Readily available through apps like Gett
The International Community: A Global Village
Herzliya hosts one of Israel's largest expatriate communities, drawn by the international companies, diplomatic missions, and high standard of living:
Diplomatic Presence
Numerous embassies and consulates are located in Herzliya Pituach
Ambassador residences and diplomatic housing
International cultural events and national day celebrations
Expatriate Demographics
Tech professionals from North America, Europe, and Asia
Diplomatic staff and their families
Academic community around Reichman University
International business executives
Community Support
Active Facebook groups for various nationalities
International women's clubs and networking groups
Expatriate-oriented services from banking to healthcare
English-language community events and activities
"What surprised me most about moving here was how easy it was to settle in," shares Emma, who relocated from London for a tech position. "There's such a large international community that you can find your comfort zone while still experiencing genuine Israeli culture."
Healthcare: Quality and Accessibility
Herzliya residents benefit from Israel's excellent healthcare system with some advantages specific to the area:
Medical Facilities
Herzliya Medical Center: Private hospital popular with diplomats and foreigners
Assuta Herzliya: Branch of Israel's leading private hospital network
Health Fund Clinics: All major Israeli HMOs (Kupot Holim) maintain multiple branches
Specialized Medical Centers: Concentrated around the medical district
For International Residents
Many doctors and specialists speak English and other languages
Private insurance options specifically designed for expatriates
Concierge medical services available in Herzliya Pituach
Digital health services through major health funds
Practical Matters: Day-to-Day Living
Shopping
Seven Stars Mall: Central Herzliya's main shopping center with Israeli and international brands
Arena Mall: Upscale shopping at the marina with luxury brands
Big Herzliya: Open-air commercial center with larger stores
Farmers' Market: Weekly fresh produce and specialty foods
Specialty Shops: International grocery stores catering to expatriate needs
Banking and Services
Major Israeli banks have branches throughout the city
International banking services available for foreign residents
Digital banking increasingly common
Specialized services for tech employees and foreign residents
Language
Hebrew is the official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in:
The high-tech park and business district
Herzliya Pituach and the marina area
Hotels and tourist facilities
International schools and Reichman University
Many service providers also speak French, Russian, and other languages
The Herzliya Lifestyle: Who Thrives Here?
Herzliya appeals to several distinct groups:
Tech Professionals: Drawn by the concentration of leading companies and startups, competitive salaries, and work-beach balance.
Affluent Families: Attracted to the excellent schools, safe environment, and high standard of living.
International Expatriates: Finding a soft landing in Israel with English-friendly services and international community.
Diplomatic Community: Based around the numerous embassies and consulates in Herzliya Pituach.
Luxury Lifestyle Seekers: Enjoying the marina, beaches, and high-end amenities.
Students and Academics: Centered around Reichman University and research institutions.
The ideal Herzliya resident appreciates quality and is willing to pay a premium for it – this isn't a budget destination. The city rewards those who value professional opportunities alongside lifestyle perks and don't mind trading the urban intensity of Tel Aviv for a more balanced pace.
Comparing Herzliya: The Regional Context
How does Herzliya stack up against other options in the region?
vs. Tel Aviv: Less dense and intense, more parking, better beaches, higher-end housing, fewer cultural offerings, less nightlife, more family-friendly
vs. Ra'anana: Similar affluence but less beachfront, stronger Anglo community in Ra'anana, more high-tech concentration in Herzliya
vs. Netanya: Higher prices but more prestige, stronger international business presence, less French influence than Netanya
vs. Kfar Shmaryahu: The ultra-luxury village bordering Herzliya offers even more exclusivity but fewer amenities
Making the Move: First Steps
If Herzliya has caught your interest, consider these steps:
Explore different neighborhoods to understand the varying character from tech-centric Herzliya Pituach to family-friendly eastern areas
Connect with professional networks if you're in tech or international business
Research school options early if you have children
Understand the premium you'll pay for Herzliya living and budget accordingly
Join expatriate groups on Facebook for insider tips and connections before arriving
Final Thoughts: Silicon Beach Lifestyle
Herzliya represents a unique proposition: the professional opportunities of a global tech hub combined with Mediterranean beach lifestyle and luxury living. It's where innovation happens with sea views, where global tech giants operate minutes from sailing marinas, and where international influences blend with Israeli directness.
"I could have chosen Silicon Valley, London, or Berlin," reflects David, a startup founder who relocated to Herzliya three years ago. "But nowhere else could I build a cutting-edge company while watching my children grow up playing on beautiful beaches. The work-life integration here is unmatched."
For those who can afford its premium prices, Herzliya offers a compelling combination of career opportunities, international atmosphere, and quality of life that few other destinations can match.
About the Author: After five years in Herzliya following stints in San Francisco and London, I continue to be amazed by the unique blend of innovation and relaxation this city offers. Follow my continuing adventures in Mediterranean tech living at this blog.
Have questions about life in Herzliya? Drop them in the comments below, and I'll share insights from my experience.