According to data published by Nefesh B’Nefesh, nearly 30,000 North American immigrants have settled in Jerusalem since the organization was founded in 2002. Overall, the organization says it has assisted more than 100,000 North American Olim in partnership with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and Jewish National Fund-USA.
The figures indicate that 201 new immigrants have already arrived in Jerusalem since the beginning of 2026, with projections estimating that approximately 1,200 Olim will settle in the capital by the end of the year.
By comparison, Jerusalem welcomed 1,128 Olim in 2025, 1,161 in 2024 and 963 in 2023, despite the security challenges Israel has faced in recent years.
Moshe Lion, Mayor of Jerusalem said the continued immigration reflects both the city’s appeal and immigrants’ connection to Israel.
“Jerusalem is much more than a historic symbol or Israel’s capital city. It is a vibrant, growing city filled with opportunity, a place where people choose to build their future,” Lion said. “The fact that thousands of North American Olim continue to make Jerusalem their home reflects not only their deep connection to Israel and the Jewish people, but also the exceptional quality of life the city offers: strong communities, excellent education, culture, employment opportunities, innovation, and a true sense of belonging unlike anywhere else. Making Aliyah to Jerusalem is a powerful Zionist statement, and we are proud to open the doors of our city to everyone who chooses to build their lives and future in Israel’s capital.”
Since last year’s Yom Yerushalayim, 1,014 North American immigrants have chosen to settle in Jerusalem, including 70 families, approximately 400 young singles and around 180 retirees. According to the data, the oldest immigrant was 96 years old, while the youngest was 11 months old.
Tony Gelbart, Co-Founder and Chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh said Jerusalem continues to hold a unique place in Jewish life and identity.
“On Yom Yerushalayim, we are reminded that Jerusalem is not only central to the Jewish people’s history, but also a vibrant center of life and community today,” Gelbart said. “Every Oleh who chooses to build a life in Jerusalem becomes part of the city’s evolving story, contributing to its future and strengthening a connection that spans thousands of years. We are proud that so many Olim now call Jerusalem home.”
The demographic data also points to the city’s appeal across different age groups and backgrounds. Women account for nearly 60% of newcomers to Jerusalem, while men comprise approximately 40%.
Most immigrants arriving in the city are coming from the states of New York, New Jersey, California and Florida, as well as Ontario in Canada.
Among those who reported their professions, physicians ranked highest, with 35 doctors choosing to settle in Jerusalem this year. Other commonly reported professions included educators, lawyers, social workers, business professionals and engineers.
The city has also become a major center for immigrant integration programs. The Nefesh B’Nefesh Jerusalem Campus, located near several national institutions in the capital, has developed into a hub for Olim, educators, community leaders and visitors.
Since opening in 2021, the campus has welcomed 150,000 visitors. Since the beginning of 2026, it has hosted more than 100 events and has received over 8,000 visitors, according to the organization.
Jerusalem remains one of the most sought-after destinations for North American Olim, with many citing the city’s cultural diversity, educational opportunities, strong communities and spiritual significance as factors influencing their decision to immigrate to Israel.
Written in collaboration with NBN