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Tekoa


This laid back yishuv, which is nestled in the outer areas of Gush Etzion has capitivating views of the Judean mountains from all directions.

What is unique about this community is the natural interactions between the close knit secular and religious community, which in essence distinguishes this yishuv from others.

While English speakers have settled in Tekoa for years, its popularity has picked up recently with the opening of the new road which bypasses Arab communities, and allows you to arrive in the southern end of Jerusalem within 15 minutes.

New housing is underway which is more affordable than other areas of Gush Etzion, and the proximity to the larger Efrat, and to the major shopping areas of Talpiyot have made Tekeo a solid choice for English speaking olim.

Tekoa Stats
Region: Efrat & Gush Etzion - אפרת וגוש עציון Climate: Mountain
Demographics: Young couples/Young families, Families, Retirees Medical care:
Maccabi, Meuchedet
City Type: Yishuv ישוב Affordability: $$
Number of families: 600  
Sectors:
Chabad, Chardal, Dati Leumi, Secular		  
Number of English speakers: 15%
Community contacts:
Shani Simkowitz
gushezif@zahav.net.il
0504012071
Website: www.gush-etzion.org.il/tekoa.asp
Local Employment
There are some employment opportunities in the Gush Etzion region, but most residents work in nearby Jerusalem. Additionally, within Tekoa itself, there is a small industrial park, and guest center.

Education / Youth
There is one elementary school in the yishuv which all residents happily attend. Middle and high school students travel outside of the community.

There are several youth clubs including an after school homework help group, and an active chapter of the Bnei Akiva youth movement, which is attended by both religious and secular youth.

Transportation
Within the Yishuv itself, a car is not necessary.

Egged busses to nearby Jerusalem are available regularly. Many residents rely on car pooling to access employment outside of Tekoa.

Olim Services
There is an Absorption Committee, which will help families arrange a place for Shabbat,and assist them in acclimating to life in the community.

Amenities / Services
Tekoa boasts a restaurant, two event halls, and even horse riding stables.

The local sports facilities include a swimming pool with hours for mixed, separate, and family swimming, tennis courts, and a fencing team.

Many of Tekoa's retired residents enjoy activities at the local "Moadon Gil Zahav", and younger residents participate in youth clubs. The "Matnas" (community center) hosts a wide variety of groups and activities, and the Yishuv also has several parks and a library.

The community also offers a minimarket, Chabad house, winery, and a Mikvah (ritual bath).

The nearest hospital is a 30 minute drive away.

Community and Religious Life
About 65 percent of Tekoa's residents are observant. The Yishuv is involved in a variety of agricultural operations, including a winery.

Tekoa is very family friendly, with many clubs and activities for youth.

There is a Hesder Yeshiva on the Yishuv run by Rabbi Steinsaltz.

Those looking to live in Tekoa permanantly must meet with the acceptance committee.

Real Estate
A basement apartments rents for around $400 a month.

Apartments can be purchased for as little as $200k and single family homes for $360k. The Aleph neighborhood has alot fo new construction underway.

Caravans are also available for rent.

Neighborhoods
Tekoa is divided into six distinct neighborhoods, with the three newest areas being currently built.

Updated: November 2009

Tags: Efrat & Gush Etzion Yishuv $$ Young Couples & Families Families Retirees Chabad Chardal Dati Leumi Secular