Ashdod vs. Long Beach: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Economy and Income

Climate Index

94.7 / 96.1

Health Care Index

70.6 / 79.3

Ashdod   Long Beach

Ashdod presents a more affordable cost-of-living environment compared to Long Beach, particularly concerning housing and groceries. The average net salary in Ashdod is lower than in Long Beach, yet the overall cost burden is significantly reduced. While Long Beach boasts a higher GDP per capita and offers substantially higher average salaries, translating to a potentially higher standard of living, the increased cost of living, especially in housing and childcare, must be carefully considered. The lower mortgage rates in Ashdod might appeal to those seeking cheaper property ownership, but the higher interest rates in Long Beach could be offset by the city's robust job market and higher earning potential.

Housing and Utilities

Pollution Index

54.9 / 43.6

Safety Index

70 / 41.4

Ashdod   Long Beach

Long Beach significantly outperforms Ashdod in terms of housing costs. The average price per square meter for apartments in the city center is considerably higher in Long Beach than in Ashdod. Furthermore, Long Beach utilities are more expensive, reflecting higher rates for electricity, heating, cooling, and water/garbage services compared to the more affordable options available in Ashdod. This combination makes housing and utility expenses a major factor favoring Ashdod for budget-conscious individuals or families.

Transportation and Food

Traffic Commute Time Index

62.7 / 36.7

Ashdod   Long Beach

Ashdod demonstrates a clear advantage in transportation costs. Public transport fares and fuel prices are substantially lower in Ashdod than in Long Beach. This translates to cheaper daily commuting and overall mobility expenses. Regarding food, Ashdod is significantly more affordable. Groceries and market purchases for comparable goods are considerably cheaper in Ashdod than in Long Beach, making it a more budget-friendly option for daily sustenance and household needs.

Healthcare and Safety

Long Beach generally offers superior healthcare quality, reflected in its higher healthcare index. Ashdod, however, presents a safer environment with a higher safety index. While Long Beach has a slightly better climate index, suggesting a potentially more pleasant weather pattern, Ashdod's lower pollution index indicates cleaner air quality. The trade-off between potentially better healthcare access in Long Beach and a safer, cleaner environment in Ashdod is a crucial factor for relocation decisions.

Quality of Life and Childcare

Ashdod offers a more affordable childcare option, with significantly lower monthly preschool fees compared to the exorbitant costs found in Long Beach. This makes raising children potentially more financially manageable in Ashdod. However, Long Beach provides superior overall quality of life metrics, including healthcare and climate, although these benefits come at a significantly higher cost for housing, food, transportation, and childcare.