Arriving in New York City is exciting, but figuring out how to get from the airport to your final destination can be daunting. With three major airports serving the city – JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR) – each with its own transportation quirks, it’s essential to be prepared. This guide will break down your options and answer the most common questions.

Newark Airport (©Jimmy Woo)

Transportation Options: A Breakdown

JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport)

• AirTrain + Subway/LIRR: This is often the most cost-effective option. The AirTrain connects all JFK terminals to the subway (A train) and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) at Jamaica Station.
• Taxis/Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient but can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
• Private Car Services: Pre-booked car services offer a comfortable, albeit pricier, option.

LGA (LaGuardia Airport)

• Public Bus + Subway: LGA is notoriously less subway-friendly. Buses like the Q70-SBS connect to subway lines.
• Taxis/Ride-Sharing: A common choice, but traffic can be a major factor.
• Private Car Services: Similar to JFK, this is a premium option.

EWR (Newark Liberty International Airport)

• AirTrain + NJ Transit: The AirTrain connects to NJ Transit trains, which take you to Penn Station in Manhattan.
• Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Expect higher fares due to the distance.
• Private Car Services: A comfortable but costly choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

“What’s the cheapest way to get from JFK/LGA/EWR to Manhattan?”

For JFK and EWR, AirTrain + public transit is generally the cheapest. For LGA, the bus + subway combination is the most budget-friendly.

“How long does it take to get from JFK/LGA/EWR to Manhattan?”

• JFK: 1-1.5 hours via AirTrain and subway/LIRR.
• LGA: 45-90 minutes via bus and subway or taxi/ride-sharing (depending on traffic).
• EWR: 45-60 minutes via AirTrain and NJ Transit.

JFK Airport (©Josh Withers)

“Is Uber/Lyft cheaper than a taxi in NYC?”

It varies. Ride-sharing prices fluctuate based on demand, while taxis have set fares. During peak hours, ride-sharing can be more expensive.

“How do I avoid traffic when traveling from the airport to NYC?”

Public transportation, especially trains, is the best way to avoid traffic. If you must use a car, avoid peak travel times.

“Are there any shuttle services from the airports to hotels in NYC?”

Shuttle services exist, but they are generally less common than in other cities. It is usually faster to use other methods.

“How much is the AirTrain at JFK and Newark?”

The Airtrain at JFK is $8.25. The Airtrain at Newark is also $8.25.

“How do I get to Penn Station from Newark Airport?”

Take the AirTrain from your terminal to Newark Liberty Airport Station, and then take a NJ Transit train to Penn Station.

LaGuardia Airport (©Preston A Larimer)