In a nutshell
- If you’re flying into New York, most international flights land at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – the city’s biggest and busiest airport.
- There are several ways to get from JFK Airport to Manhattan – ranging from budget-friendly to super convenient.
- We break down each JFK airport transfer option for you, including pros and cons so you can choose what fits best.
- Our top pick is the AirTrain and subway combo: it’s reliable, affordable (especially by NYC standards), and you can just pay as you go.
Overview of Transfers to and from JFK Airport
Before we dive into the details of how to get from JFK Airport to Manhattan, here’s a quick overview of the 5 main transfer options and the key info you need to know.
| Price | Duration | Where To Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirTrain + Subway Recommendation | approx. $12 | 60-75 min. | on side |
| AirTrain + LIRR | approx. $14-18 | 35-45 min. | on side |
| Taxi | approx. $80-90 | 45-70 min. | on side |
| Shuttle-Bus | approx. $25-40 | 60-90 min. | book online |
| Private Transfer | approx. $80-150 | 45-70 min. | book online |
AirTrain Subway from JFK Airport to Manhattan
- Lines: AirTrain JFK (green line to Howard Beach & red line to Jamaica) Subway line A (from Howard Beach) & E/J/Z (from Jamaica)
- Travel time: Around 60–75 minutes depending on where you’re going and time of day
- Operating hours: Runs 24/7, 365 days a year
- Frequency: AirTrain every 7–15 minutes, Subway every 4–12 minutes depending on the line
What is the AirTrain? The AirTrain is a driverless airport train that loops between terminals, parking areas, and subway connections.
Where does the train stop? It stops at all JFK terminals – you can hop on right at your terminal and transfer to the subway at either Howard Beach (line A) or Jamaica Station (lines E/J/Z).
Where do you board? Get on the AirTrain directly at your arrival terminal – signs are easy to follow. Then switch to the subway at Howard Beach (for Brooklyn & Downtown Manhattan) or Jamaica (for Midtown & Queens).
How much does the AirTrain Subway cost? The full ride costs $11.40 – $8.50 for the AirTrain and $2.90 for the Subway.
Where do you buy the ticket? You don’t pay when boarding the AirTrain – you pay when exiting at Howard Beach or Jamaica. Use a credit card directly at the turnstile via the OMNY system, or buy an OMNY card from the machines. You can also use the OMNY card all over New York. It replaces the old MetroCard.
Find more info on the OMNY system in New York here
Pros:
- Cheapest way to get from JFK to Manhattan
- Runs 24/7
- Direct connection to many parts of NYC
- Easy payment with credit card or OMNY
- Skip traffic – no hassle with busy roads
Cons:
- You’ll need to transfer between AirTrain and subway
- Can be tricky with big suitcases
- No guaranteed seat like in a taxi or shuttle
AirTrain LIRR from JFK Airport to Manhattan
- Lines: AirTrain JFK (red line to Jamaica Station) and LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) heading to Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall)
- Travel time: About 35–45 minutes to reach Manhattan
- Operating hours: Runs daily, nearly 24/7 depending on the time
- Frequency: AirTrain every 7–15 minutes, LIRR every 5–30 minutes depending on time of day
Where does the train stop? The AirTrain stops at all terminals in JFK Airport. From Jamaica Station, the LIRR takes you to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
Where do you get on? Take the AirTrain (red line) from your terminal to Jamaica Station. After exiting the AirTrain, follow the clearly marked signs to the LIRR platforms and catch a train heading toward Manhattan.
How much does the AirTrain LIRR cost? A one-way trip costs between $13.75 and $17.75 depending on the time of day. The AirTrain is $8.50, and the LIRR ticket is $5.25 with a CityTicket (valid off-peak and on weekends) or $7.00–$9.25 during peak times.
Where do you buy the ticket? Pay for the AirTrain when exiting at Jamaica Station — either contactless with a credit card or at a ticket machine. LIRR tickets can be bought from machines at Jamaica (cash or card) or through the MTA TrainTime app.
Pros:
- Fastest way to get to Midtown Manhattan
- Spacious and comfortable trains — ideal if you have luggage
- Digital ticketing available for the LIRR
- Frequent service, especially during busy hours
- No traffic delays
Cons:
- More expensive than the subway
- You’ll need to transfer from the AirTrain to the LIRR
- CityTicket discounts aren’t always available
Taxi from JFK Airport to Manhattan
- Travel time: About 45–70 minutes, depending on traffic
- Operating hours: 24/7, every day of the year
- Frequency: Always available (but you may have to wait in line)
Where does the cab stop? Official yellow NYC taxis are lined up at every terminal at JFK. You’ll find them just outside the arrivals level. The taxi areas are clearly marked—just follow the signs with the cab symbol.
Where do you get in? As soon as you exit the terminal, head to the official taxi stand and wait in line. An airport staff member will guide you to the next available cab.
Important: Never accept rides from people approaching you inside the terminal. They are not licensed and usually charge much more.
How much does a cab cost? The flat rate for rides from JFK to Manhattan is $70. On top of that, tolls and a tip are expected, so plan for a total of around $80–$90.
The fixed fare applies to any destination in Manhattan, no matter the address or time. For trips to other parts of NYC, the meter determines the price.
Where do you pay for the cab? Pay the driver directly—either with cash or by credit card. All licensed yellow cabs have card payment systems.
Pros:
- Direct trip with no transfers (great if you have a lot of luggage)
- Flat rate for all Manhattan destinations
- Available 24/7
- Door-to-door service to your hotel or accommodation
- Easy payment by card
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- Travel time can be much longer during traffic
- Wait times vary depending on the line
Shuttle Bus from JFK Airport to Manhattan
- Travel time: Around 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic and number of stops
- Operating times: Daily, usually from about 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM (varies by provider)
- Frequency: Usually every 30–60 minutes, advance booking recommended
Which providers are there? The most popular shuttle services from JFK are Go AirLink NYC and SuperShuttle. Both offer shared rides with multiple stops as well as private transfers for individuals or groups.
Where does the shuttle bus stop? Shuttle buses pick up passengers directly outside the arrivals area at each terminal. The pickup points vary by provider but are clearly marked. You’ll also often find representatives or counters for the shuttle companies nearby.
Where do you board? After collecting your luggage, head to your terminal’s ground transportation area. Depending on your provider, you’ll either find a staffed counter or meeting point. Staff will check you in and direct you to your shuttle.
How much does the shuttle bus cost? A shared ride typically costs between $25 and $40 per person, depending on provider, destination, and time of day. Kids often pay less. Private shuttle prices range from $80 to $150 (approx. €70–€131).
Where do you buy the ticket? The easiest way is to book online in advance directly through Go AirLink NYC or SuperShuttle. You can choose between shared or private transfer during the booking.
Book your Go AirLink NYC ticket online
Book your SuperShuttle ticket online
Pros:
- Comfortable door-to-door service to your hotel
- More affordable than a taxi for solo travelers
- Great option if you’re traveling with lots of luggage
- Easy to book online in advance
- Private options available for families or groups
Cons:
- Shared rides may involve multiple stops, making the trip longer
- Limited service hours and set departure times
- You may need to wait at the airport before departure
- Booking last-minute at the terminal can be confusing
Private Transfer from JFK Airport to Manhattan
- Travel time: Around 45–70 minutes, depending on traffic
- Operating hours: Available 24/7 (depending on provider)
- Frequency: You choose the pickup time to suit your schedule
Where does the private transfer stop? Your driver will meet you at a designated pickup spot in your terminal’s arrivals area. The exact meeting point—such as a specific exit or parking zone—will be provided at the time of booking.
Where do you board? Once you’ve collected your luggage, head to the agreed pickup location. If you’ve booked a “Meet & Greet” service, the driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall. Otherwise, contact the driver by phone or app when you’re ready. You’ll receive all instructions ahead of time via email or text.
How much does the private transfer cost? A private transfer from JFK typically costs between $80 and $150 per ride, depending on the vehicle type, provider, and destination. The price is a fixed rate—so traffic and tolls are already included.
Where do you book the private transfer? The best way to book is online in advance, for example through Go AirLink NYC or GetYourGuide. Payment is made at the time of booking.
Book a JFK Airport private transfer with GetYourGuide
Book a JFK Airport private transfer with Go AirLink
Where to Stay at JFK Airport
Got a red-eye flight or arriving late at night? If so, booking a hotel near the airport can be a smart move. When it comes to where to stay at JFK Airport, there are several convenient and comfortable hotel options nearby. Here are some of our top picks:
Marriott New York JFK Airport: A premium airport hotel located right next to the terminal—perfect if you want to minimize travel time before your flight.
Fairfield Inn by Marriott JFK Airport: A modern, cozy option with free 24-hour shuttle service—great for a restful night before departure.
Hyatt Regency JFK Airport: Upscale and quiet with spacious rooms—ideal if you’re looking for extra comfort right before or after a long flight.
Check out all our tips on where to stay in New York City:
FAQ about JFK Airport New York
How big is JFK Airport?
John F. Kennedy International Airport is one of the largest airports in the USA and the largest airport in NYC.
It covers around 25 square kilometers. That is roughly the size of 3,500 soccer pitches or half the area of Manhattan.
How do you get from JFK to Manhattan for free?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to get from JFK Airport to Manhattan free of charge. The cheapest transfer option is the AirTrain in combination with the Subway.
If you want to save money in New York, take a look at these articles:
How much is an Uber from JFK to Manhattan?
An Uber from JFK Airport to Manhattan usually costs between 74 and 92 dollars for the standard UberX option, depending on the type of vehicle, time of day, traffic and destination. So about the same as a cab.
Can you buy a MetroCard at JFK?
Yes, you can buy tickets for the New York Subway at JFK Airport. However, not directly in the terminals.
The most common and convenient option is to buy at the Jamaica or Howard Beach AirTrain stations.
Important: The OMNY system will completely replace the MetroCard from the end of 2025! Payment will then be made directly by credit card, smartphone or smartwatch or via an OMNY top-up card.
What other airports are there in New York?
New York City is served by three major airports and a few smaller ones. The main toher ones are LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)