From empty hills to a city of over 100,000 residents: How Modiin changed in 30 years

Modiin marks 30 years since its first residents moved in, from fewer than 1,000 in 1996 to over 100,000 today in 2026. The city has transformed from bare hills into a sought-after residential hub with restaurants, high-tech, and defense companies. Alongside growth, challenges remain in transportation, housing, and security, including proximity to the separation barrier.

Modiin is celebrating 30 years since the start of its settlement, from 1996 when fewer than 1,000 residents lived there. Today, in 2026, the city has over 100,000 residents and aims for 250,000. The city's transformation: from bare hills and unpaved sidewalks to a sought-after residential hub with restaurants, bars, high-tech companies, and defense firms. Alongside growth, challenges remain: housing prices rose 25%-30% in 2021, though a moderation has been noted recently. Public transportation remains a challenge, with plans for a third train station. On the eastern edge, about four kilometers from the separation barrier, the city faces security challenges using cameras and sensors. The social fabric is described as diverse, with no dominant group, and the opening of businesses on Shabbat is left to the discretion of business owners. The city ranks first in Israel for positive migration, and its education system is considered a draw due to high matriculation eligibility rates and high enlistment data.