Your Guide to Budget Transportation Options at New York City Airports

If you’ve ever landed at a New York City airport and spent $50 or more on a rideshare car to take you to your destination, you are not alone. While there’s a price for convenience, it’s best to familiarize yourself with various public transit options that can save you money.

iBestTravel proposes some budget-friendly options: public transport and shared shuttles. Although navigating the subway may seem daunting, taking the train, subway, or bus to and from the airport is quite feasible, especially if you don’t have a lot of luggage.

Moreover, regardless of when you visit New York City, shared transit can help you get to your destination more quickly, so you can start enjoying all the diverse neighborhoods and experiences the city has to offer.

Getting to and from LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Minimum cost: $2.90

LaGuardia Airport is the closest airport to Manhattan, located only 8 miles away. It serves as a hub for major airlines like American Airlines and Delta Airlines, making it a desirable regional airport.

Public Transit Routes from Manhattan to LaGuardia

Getting to LaGuardia via public transit involves some straightforward routes. Here are a few options:

1. Take the 7 train to 111 St/Roosevelt Ave, then connect to the Q48 bus.
2. Take the 7, E, F, M, and R trains to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave/74 St, then switch to the Q47 bus.
3. Board the M60 SBS bus in Manhattan, which connects with various subway lines.
4. If you prefer to travel by bus, the Q70 SBS also serves LaGuardia with connections to multiple subway lines.

Rideshare and Taxi Options at LaGuardia

There are designated spots for rideshare pickups and drop-offs at each terminal. Taxi fares are metered, meaning the total will vary based on distance, with various surcharges applicable during specific hours.

Getting to and from John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Minimum cost: $11.40

JFK serves as a major transit hub for both domestic and international flights, located 19 miles from Manhattan. Here are several transportation options:

Shuttle Options from Manhattan to JFK

The simplest way to travel from Manhattan to JFK is to take a shared Airlink NYC shuttle from Port Authority Bus Terminal, starting at $34 for a one-way trip.

Train Travel to JFK

For a more economical option, consider taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Jamaica Station, which is a 36-minute journey, followed by the AirTrain JFK to reach your terminal.

Subway Routes to JFK

The subway is another budget-friendly option, costing around $12 and taking approximately 90 minutes. Key routes involve the A or E trains, connecting via the AirTrain to your terminal.

Getting to and from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Minimum cost: $6.25

Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Newark Liberty Airport may sometimes provide a quicker route into the city than JFK. Here are various travel options:

Taxi and Rideshare Options at Newark

For a quick ride, taxis and rideshares like Uber operate from Newark Airport, but be mindful of the various surcharges and fees associated with taxis.

Shuttle Bus from Manhattan to Newark

The Coach USA shuttle bus offers convenient service every 45 minutes, with a travel time of approximately 50 minutes at a reasonable cost.

Additional Tips for Traveling to New York Airports

Many travelers prioritize flight selection based on accessibility to the airport. The Transit app is highly recommended for reliable transport routing. Also, when traveling from Brooklyn, consider flying out of LaGuardia or JFK for convenience.

Whether you’re heading to LaGuardia, JFK, or Newark, understanding your public transit options can significantly enhance your travel experience while saving you money. Be sure to plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey.

This article was first published on March 29, 2024, and updated on September 3, 2024.