Survey: 38% of American Jews More Engaged in Jewish Life Since October 7

More than a third of American Jews say they have become more engaged in Jewish life since the October 7 massacre, according to a new survey.

The Jewish Federations of North America surveyed 2,836 Jewish Americans between May and June 2026. The study found that 38% reported increased engagement in Jewish life, a trend the organization calls the “Surge.”

The figure increased from 31% in 2025, suggesting that the rise in Jewish involvement following October 7 has continued three years after the attack.

Researchers found that a connection to Israel and concerns about antisemitism played important roles in the trend. Jews who became more involved were also more likely to report a strong emotional connection to Israel.

Meanwhile, 65% of respondents said there is “a lot” of antisemitism in the United States. In comparison, 45% of American Jews gave that response in 2020.

The survey also examined what encourages Jews to become more involved in their communities. Among more than 700 responses, informal social gatherings such as Shabbat dinners with friends emerged as the most common factor.

Regular attendance also helped strengthen involvement. In addition, respondents frequently cited personal relationships and having someone who made them feel welcome in a Jewish community.

However, political disagreements surrounding Israel and antisemitism remained a significant obstacle. Some respondents said their communities were too critical of Israel, while others felt they were too supportive.

Rather than withdrawing from Jewish life entirely, many said they searched for congregations or communities that better reflected their views.

The survey also found growing confidence in communal security. Fifty-eight percent said they knew where to seek help if targeted by antisemitism, up from 46% last year.

Additionally, 60% said Jewish organizations were effectively protecting their communities, compared with 47% in 2025.

JFNA said the findings indicate that the rise in Jewish engagement following October 7 has developed into a lasting feature of American Jewish life.