Jewish Communities' Security Costs Top $1 Billion A Year

According to Axios, Jewish communal institutions in the United States are spending an estimated $1.02 billion a year on security, a record high, according to new data from the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). The estimate is up 33% from $765 million in 2024 and covers more than 4,500 synagogues, Jewish community centers, schools, summer camps and other nonprofits, which spend an average of about $225,000 each. Security personnel account for the largest share, while about $150 million goes to security technology and building hardening, including cameras, reinforced doors and controlled-entry systems. The estimate does not include costs at more than 1,600 kosher restaurants, about 500 kosher markets and groceries, or other privately owned Jewish businesses. Axios reported that the higher spending comes as antisemitic assaults have reached their highest level since the Anti-Defamation League began tracking them in 1979. Community Security Service CEO Richard Priem said there is now more capability protecting the Jewish community than there was a few years ago, while JFNA CEO Eric Fingerhut said every dollar spent on guards and cameras is a dollar not spent on Jewish education. The article also said FEMA has made $300 million available through the FY 2026 Nonprofit Security Grant Program, and that a bipartisan bill in Congress would authorize $1 billion annually from FY 2027 through FY 2031 for the program and loosen limits on using the money for security personnel.