top of page
Be'er Sheva
7_edited.png

Emily Cohen
Aerospace Engineering, Palo Alto, California

icons_forsite_row1.gif

Be'er Sheva

Student city in the Negev with great value and a growing tech scene.

Be'er Sheva is a major university city in southern Israel (Negev), known for affordability, strong student culture around Ben-Gurion University, and a developing tech and innovation ecosystem.

Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
20231107_143.jpg
piotr-musiol-xnR3C6p3f5c-unsplash.jpg
Estimated Living Expenses (Monthly) 
Category
Average (USD)
Comfortable (USD)
Housing (Rent & Utilities)
600 (shared apartment)
1,200 (private studio)
Transportation
80
100
Food & Beverage
225
350
Health & Wellness
50
100
Phone & Internet
50
60
Academic Expenses
50
75
Personal & Household
70
100
Nightlife & Entertainment
140
240
Contingency
50
100
TOTAL
1,315
2,325
Student Life & Culture

Be’er Sheva has a strong, student-driven nightlife that’s concentrated mainly around the university area and parts of the Old City. Most venues are casual and community-oriented, with bars, small live-music spots, and student-led events rather than large clubs. Because nightlife is closely tied to campus life, it’s easy to meet people and feel part of a social scene without traveling far. Costs are generally lower than in larger cities, which many students appreciate, and the overall vibe is social, accessible, and centered around student culture rather than high-end nightlife.


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g297741-Activities-c20-Beersheba_Southern_District.html

Student-Friendly Neighborhoods

Aleph (א׳)

Aleph is one of the most student-centered neighborhoods in Be’er Sheva, largely due to its immediate proximity to Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. The area is dominated by older apartment buildings and shared flats, which keeps rent relatively affordable and attracts large numbers of undergraduate students. The streets feel lively and informal, with plenty of small food spots, bars, and convenience stores catering to student life. While some parts feel a bit worn, Aleph’s social energy and walkability to campus make it a top choice for students who want to be close to everything.


Dalet (ד׳)

Dalet sits right next to Aleph and shares many of its advantages, including easy access to the university and affordable housing. Compared to Aleph, Dalet tends to be slightly quieter and more residential, making it appealing to students who want proximity to campus without constant activity. The neighborhood has a strong student presence, especially in shared apartments, and is well suited for walking or biking to class while maintaining a calmer day-to-day atmosphere.


Gimel (ג׳)

Gimel is more centrally located within the city and has a mixed population of students, families, and long-time residents. Housing here is generally older but reasonably priced, and public transportation access is good. The neighborhood feels less dominated by student culture than Aleph or Dalet, offering a more balanced, local experience. It’s a good option for students who prefer a quieter environment while still staying connected to the city center.


Old City

The Old City (Be’er Sheva Old Town) offers a very different living experience, defined by historic architecture, cafés, bars, and a growing cultural scene. Some buildings have been renovated into stylish apartments, while others remain quite basic. The area is farther from campus but closer to the main train station, making it convenient for students who travel often. Nightlife can bring noise in the evenings, but for students drawn to character, arts, and social life, the Old City is one of Be’er Sheva’s most distinctive neighborhoods.


Ramot

Ramot is a newer, more suburban neighborhood located on the outskirts of Be’er Sheva. It is characterized by modern buildings, larger apartments, and a quieter, family-oriented environment. Rent is generally higher than in the central student areas, and most students rely on buses or a car to reach campus or downtown. Ramot is best suited for graduate students, couples, or anyone prioritizing space, comfort, and a calm lifestyle over proximity to student nightlife.

Transportation & Mobility

Be'er Sheva is compact and student routes often focus on the university, the Old City, and key residential areas. Buses cover most daily needs, while Israel Railways provides convenient intercity travel to the center of the country.

Transportation Costs on average

₪5.50 (~$1.50)

Single Ride

₪225 (~$60)

Monthly Pass

Discounts 

 Student Rates

Jewish Community & Campus Life

Be’er Sheva has an active and welcoming Jewish community, with synagogues spread across different neighborhoods, as well as Chabad programming and student-focused Shabbat meals throughout the year. Holiday events are often community-centered and accessible, making it easy for students to participate regardless of background or level of observance. Many students connect to Jewish life through Ben-Gurion University of the Negev student groups, volunteering opportunities, and local initiatives across the Negev, creating a strong sense of belonging that’s closely tied to campus life and the surrounding community. Chabad at Ben-Gurion University

General Pros & Cons:
Advantages
  • Most affordable major city in Israel

  • Growing tech and cyber security hub

  • Authentic Israeli experience

  • Strong student community

  • Easy access to desert adventures

Considerations
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities

  • Hot desert climate

  • Fewer international students

  • Less English-speaking environment

jan-cassalette-bcyX75o6KIs-unsplash.jpg
Vita-notturna-Tel-Aviv-festa-in-spiaggia.jpg
benjamin-istanbuli-6UJDY5wM9Ek-unsplash.jpg
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Group 1000002511.png
Israel study abroad opportunities
Graduate programs in Israel
20250610_041_edited.png
Israel student community

Ready to Find out more?

We provide personalized guidance to help you find your perfect academic home in Israel

Student exchange programs Israel
bottom of page