New York travel guide
How to Get from JFK to Manhattan
Every transit option from JFK into Manhattan, compared on price, speed, and convenience — from the subway to a private car.
Quick answer: The LIRR from Jamaica Station is the fastest transit option at about 20 minutes to Penn Station. Budget travelers can take the AirTrain to the subway for a total fare well under $10; taxis charge a flat rate to Manhattan regardless of traffic.
In this guide
Transit options at a glance
Every JFK ground transportation option starts with the AirTrain, a people-mover connecting all terminals to two rail exits: the subway at Howard Beach or Jamaica, and the LIRR at Jamaica Station.
Step-by-step: AirTrain + subway
From any terminal, board the AirTrain toward Howard Beach or Jamaica. At Howard Beach, transfer to the A train; at Jamaica, transfer to the E, J, or Z. This is the cheapest way into the city but the slowest, often 60 minutes or more to Midtown.
Step-by-step: AirTrain + LIRR
Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and board any LIRR train toward Penn Station. Trains run frequently throughout the day and the ride itself takes under 20 minutes, making this the best speed-to-cost balance for most travelers.
Taxi and rideshare
Yellow taxis charge a flat fare to Manhattan regardless of traffic, which can work in your favor during rush hour. Rideshares are typically metered by distance and time, so prices swing more with traffic conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the AirTrain fare at JFK?
The AirTrain itself has a flat fare, on top of whichever subway or LIRR fare you connect to at Jamaica or Howard Beach.
Is Uber or a yellow taxi cheaper from JFK?
It varies by time of day and traffic — taxis have a fixed flat rate to Manhattan, while rideshare pricing fluctuates, so checking both before you leave the terminal is worth the extra minute.
Best Hotels Near JFK Airport
Where to stay for an early flight, a long layover, or a first night in New York — ranked by distance, shuttle service, and price.
Best Airport Hotels with Free Shuttle
A cross-airport roundup of hotels with reliable, frequent shuttle service — useful for early flights, late arrivals, and park-and-fly trips.