The study covered more than 4,500 Jewish institutions. On average, each one spent approximately $225,000 on security, with most of the money paying for guards and security directors.
Another $150 million was spent on cameras, reinforced doors and windows, barriers outside buildings and other security equipment. The total does not even include security costs for thousands of kosher restaurants, grocery stores, Judaica shops and other Jewish-owned businesses.
That $1 billion could have paid Jewish day-school tuition for 44,000 children or covered summer camp for every Jewish child attending one. Instead, it had to be spent protecting Jewish families while they pray, learn and gather.
Jews make up approximately 2% of America’s population but were targeted in 64% of the country’s religiously motivated hate crimes in 2025. Still, Jewish communities are refusing to hide. Synagogues remain open, schools remain active and Jewish life continues proudly.