Tel Aviv District

Tel Aviv District (population 1.51 million) is Israel's economic capital and most densely populated region at 22,693 people per square mile—a compact coastal territory that concentrates the country's commercial, cultural, and technological activity. The district encompasses Tel Aviv-Yafo and contiguous cities like Ramat Gan, Givatayim, Herzliya, and Bnei Brak (a predominantly ultra-Orthodox city), creating a seamless metropolitan fabric. Tel Aviv hosts almost all foreign embassies and diplomatic missions despite Jerusalem's designation as capital, reflecting the international community's position on Jerusalem's status. The 'Silicon Wadi' technology cluster based here has made Israel a global startup hub, with venture capital investment concentrated in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area. Municipal finances reflect this prosperity: Tel Aviv maintains approximately 80% own-source revenue, among Israel's highest. The district's 1.8% annual population growth, combined with severe land constraints, has produced Israel's highest housing costs. Cultural institutions, beaches, and nightlife make Tel Aviv Israel's secular and international-facing city—a contrast to Jerusalem's religious character.