Israel
Startup Nation by the Mediterranean
Overview
A small but influential Middle Eastern nation, holy to three major religions, with a thriving startup ecosystem dubbed "the Silicon Wadi" and a complex geopolitical reality.
Geographic Context
Region
Asia
Subregion
Western Asia
Land Area
20,770 km²
Capital
Jerusalem
Languages
Arabic, Hebrew
Currencies
Israeli new shekel (₪)
At a Glance
57
Oyster Score
Composite index
Health
45
Freedom
76
Security
50
Life Expectancy
81.7 yrs
Median Age
29.1 yrs
Urbanization
93%
Cost Index
97
Housing Index
79
Healthcare Access
49/100
Climate
Average Temperature
20.0°C
Average AQI
117
Most Temperate Cities
1 Qiryat Ata 20.4°C
2 Qiryat Bialik 20.4°C
3 Qiryat Moẕqin 20.4°C
4 Qiryat Yam 20.4°C
5 Tirat Karmel 20.4°C
Best Air Quality Cities
1 Bet She’an 37 AQI
2 ‘Uzeir 83 AQI
3 Basmat Ṭab‘ūn 83 AQI
4 Bīr el Maksūr 83 AQI
5 Bu‘eina 83 AQI
Cities
Economy & Finance
Finances
Economic Indicators
Cost Index 97
Cost of Living
Price Levels & Affordability
Housing Index 79
Investment
Credit Rating & Markets
Corp. Tax 0.00%
Taxation
Tax Rates & Compliance
Top Income Tax 50.00%
Employment
Labor & Social Protection
Startup Score 31/100
Business Environment
Trade & Commerce
FDI Openness 14/100
Society & Governance
International
Travel
Visas & Entry Requirements
Visa-Free 141 countries
Diplomatic Relations
Embassies & Alliances
Missions 90
Defence
Military & Security
Mil. Spending 5.32% GDP
Infrastructure
Energy & Transport
Internet Speed 198 Mbps
Environment
Emissions & Biodiversity
Alternatives
Similar Jurisdictions
Jurisdiction Guide
Tips & Cultural Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources: World Bank | WHO | Freedom House | OECD · Last updated: 2025