Can You Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month in Eilat?

Eilat is a popular city located at the southernmost tip of Israel, on the coast of the Red Sea. It’s known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and jaw-dropping coral reefs. Given its location and reputation, many people assume that living in Eilat would be extremely expensive. However, that’s not necessarily the case. In this post, we’ll explore whether it’s possible to live in Eilat on a budget of less than $1,000 a month.

Housing Costs in Eilat

The first and most significant expense when it comes to living in Eilat is housing. According to Numbeo, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $840. However, if you’re willing to live a little further from the center (but still within reasonable walking distance), you can find one-bedroom apartments for as little as $500 per month. It’s worth noting that many of these less expensive options may be unfurnished, meaning you’ll need to factor in the cost of buying furniture or finding a furnished rental, which can cost you more.

Food Costs in Eilat

Another big expense for most people is food. Again, according to Numbeo, the average cost of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Eilat is around $15. However, if you’re willing to cook at home, you can save a lot of money. A gallon of milk costs roughly $3.20, a loaf of bread about $1.80, and a pound of chicken breast around $5.50. On average, a single person in Eilat spends around $200-$250 per month on groceries, so the cost of food won’t necessarily break the bank.

Transportation Costs in Eilat

Transportation in Eilat is relatively easy and inexpensive. The city is pedestrian-friendly, which means that you can walk almost everywhere. Additionally, there are taxis, buses, and even bike-rentals available for those who need them. On average, a bus ride costs around $1.40, so even if you take public transportation every day, you shouldn’t spend more than $50 per month on transportation costs.

Other Expenses to Consider

In addition to your monthly rent, groceries, and transportation costs, there are a few other expenses you’ll need to keep in mind. For example, you’ll need to pay for utilities such as electricity, water, and internet access. The average cost for utilities and internet access can be around $130-$150. You should also factor in entertainment costs since Eilat is known for its vibrant nightlife and tourist attractions. On average, people spend around $150-$200 a month on entertainment costs.

Summing Up

So, can you live in Eilat for less than $1,000 a month? The answer is yes, absolutely! Although it might require you to make some lifestyle changes and be mindful of your expenses, it’s entirely possible to live in the city for less than $1,000 a month. As long as you’re willing to be strategic with your expenses and prioritize necessities over indulgences, you can maintain a comfortable and fulfilling life in Eilat on a budget.

Conclusion

Eilat is a fantastic city to live in, and even if you’re on a tight budget, you can make it work. The key is to be pragmatic about your expenses and prioritize the necessities. Though living on less than $1,000 per month in Eilat might not be ideal for everyone, it’s entirely possible if you’re willing to make some lifestyle changes. Plan a budget, cut down unnecessary expenses, and enjoy all that Eilat has to offer without going broke.

An Insider’s Guide to Eilat, Israel

Eilat is a southern Israeli port and resort town located on the Red Sea. Known for its beaches, watersports, coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife, Eilat is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. But the question remains, can you live there for less than $1,000 a month? Let’s explore!

Local Attractions

Eilat is famous for its clear blue waters and coral reefs that make it an ideal location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Tourists can also go on glass-bottom boat rides, enjoy water sports, and sunbathe on its beaches. Other popular attractions include:

– Dolphin Reef: A unique attraction where visitors can interact with dolphins in a semi-natural environment.
– Underwater Observatory Marine Park: An aquarium and park that lets visitors observe the marine life of the Red Sea.
– Timna Park: A beautiful national park that covers a vast desert valley with geological wonders.
– Coral Beach Nature Reserve: An unspoiled coral reef that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach.

Dining Spots

Eilat has a diverse mix of restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Israeli. Here are some of the best dining spots in Eilat:

– Whale: An award-winning restaurant that offers a fine dining experience, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
– Falafel HaKosem: A small falafel stand that serves the best falafel in Eilat.
– Ginger Asian Kitchen and Bar: A trendy restaurant that offers Asian fusion cuisine and creative cocktails.
– The Last Refuge: A rustic and cozy restaurant that serves Middle Eastern and Israeli cuisine.

Cultural experiences

Eilat offers a glimpse into Israeli culture and heritage. Here are some cultural experiences to check out:

– Visiting the Eilat Museum: A small museum that showcases the history of Eilat and the nearby desert region.
– Exploring the Ice Mall: A shopping mall that contains an indoor ice skating rink, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
– Hiking in the Red Canyon: This hike offers breathtaking views of the Negev desert and is full of colorful rock formations.
– Stargazing in the desert: Eilat is located at the southern tip of Israel, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Take a tour and explore the night sky.

Local History

Eilat has a rich history and is mentioned in the Bible as a port city where King Solomon’s fleet sailed. The area was a major trade route between the Mediterranean and Asia for thousands of years. Today, visitors can learn about its history by visiting the following:

– The nearby ancient city of Petra: Visit the famous archaeological site located in Jordan, just a short distance from Eilat.
– The Red Canyon: This stunning geological formation tells the story of millions of years of natural history in the region.
– Eilat Port: A vital hub for shipping and commerce as far back as biblical times.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience the local flavor, try these off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Visit the local market: A bustling open-air market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and souvenirs.
– Go on a desert tour: Explore the vast expanse of the nearby desert on foot, horseback, or ATV.
– Swimming with the sea turtles: Take a snorkeling tour and encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat.
– Sit and relax on one of the town’s many quiet beaches and watch the sunset.

In conclusion, it is possible to live in Eilat for less than $1,000 a month if you budget well and avoid tourist traps. With its variety of attractions, cuisine, culture, and history, Eilat is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.