Israel had highest cost of living in OECD in 2022
Israel has the highest cost of living among all OECD nations, but the comparison to the OECD average is misleading due to the strengthening of the shekel, and next year's numbers are likely to look better due to the shekel's devaluation, which will make prices appear lower in international currencies. The real issue lies in the affordability of consumption baskets relative to median incomes and the neglect of vital infrastructure, such as education and transportation, which contribute to low incomes and high prices. The State Comptroller report highlights the escalating cost of living in crucial sectors like the dairy industry and the real estate market, with significant price increases and housing shortages.