Education and Schools in Rishon Lezion 2026 – Family Guide | Merkaz HaNekhasim | חדשות נדל"ן | מרכז הנכסים

For families with children, the education system is one of the most critical parameters in choosing a place to live. Rishon Lezion, as the fourth largest city in Israel, offers a wide and diverse range of educational institutions — from kindergartens to university. If you are considering purchasing an apartment in Rishon Lezion and have children, this guide will help you get a complete picture and choose the suitable neighborhood.

Structure of the Education System in Rishon Lezion

Rishon Lezion operates a broad municipal education system that includes:

Kindergartens in Rishon Lezion — What Parents Need to Know

Government Kindergartens (Free)

Children from the age of 3 are entitled to free education in government kindergartens. The kindergartens are located in all neighborhoods of the city. To ensure your child is accepted to the kindergarten closest to your home — you must register them at the municipality in January-February. These kindergartens are supervised by the Ministry of Education and offer a uniform curriculum.

Private / Pre-Kindergarten (Ages 0–3)

Rishon Lezion offers a growing variety of private kindergartens for ages 0–3 at prices ranging from 2,500–5,500 ₪ per month, depending on location and the level of the kindergarten. In neighborhoods like Ir Yamim and Nachalat Yehuda, there are luxury kindergartens with advanced equipment and unique programs.

Elementary Schools in Rishon Lezion — The Best Ones

Notable Public Schools

Among the esteemed elementary schools in Rishon Lezion, the following can be mentioned:

Religious-Public Schools

For the religious-national population, Rishon Lezion offers several religious-public (Med'A) schools with high ratings, such as "Shprinzak" School and "Israel" School. High demand for neighborhoods with quality Med'A schools directly affects apartment prices in their vicinity.

Notable Middle Schools and High Schools

"Katzir" High School — The Educational Gem of Rishon Lezion

Katzir High School is one of the most prestigious high schools in the Gush Dan area. Located in the Nachalat Yehuda neighborhood, it specializes in science and technology and has higher than average matriculation rates. Apartments near Katzir have a "education premium" of 5%–8% over market price.

"ORT Rishon Lezion" High School

A vocational-technical high school with engineering, electronics, computer, and design tracks. Excellent for students who prefer a vocational path over an academic one. The employment rates of its graduates are higher than average.

"Makif Z" High School

One of the largest high schools in the city with academic and vocational tracks, special education programs, and extensive cultural activities.

Special Education in Rishon Lezion

Rishon Lezion boasts a developed special education infrastructure that includes:

For families with children with special needs — Rishon Lezion is one of the best cities in the Gush Dan area.

Higher Education — Reichman University (IDC) and Its Surroundings

Reichman University — The Major Academic Asset of Rishon Lezion

Located in the Herzliya-Pituach neighborhood (on the border of Rishon Lezion and Holon, campus in Herzliya), Reichman University (formerly IDC) is the largest private university in Israel. It offers degrees in law, business, government, computer science, and arts — combining studies in Hebrew and English.

The impact of IDC on the local real estate market: High and stable rental demand — thousands of students seek rentals every year, making 2–3 room apartments in northern Rishon Lezion and near the campus an attractive investment.

Tel Aviv University — 20 Minutes by Train

With the M1 light rail, Tel Aviv University is easily accessible from central Rishon Lezion. For students studying in Tel Aviv — living in Rishon Lezion is a cheaper alternative that allows convenient access to the campus.

Netanya Academic College

Located in Netanya (30 min drive from Rishon Lezion), the college offers degrees in psychology, business, and law. Some of its students reside in Rishon Lezion.

Luxury Private Kindergartens — Ir Yamim and Nachalat Yehuda

In the luxury neighborhoods of Rishon Lezion, private kindergartens offer:

Cost: 4,000–7,500 ₪ per month (ages 0–3).

Summer Camps, Classes, and After-School Activities

Rishon Lezion offers a rich variety of activities for children:

Which Neighborhood is Suitable for Families with Children?

Here are recommendations based on the education stage:

To view properties in Rishon Lezion by neighborhood and receive personalized advice for families — contact the Merkaz HaNekhasim team.