In a nutshell
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is the main hub for domestic flights in New York and is closer to Manhattan than JFK.
- There are plenty of ways to get from LGA to the city – ranging from affordable buses to easy private transfers.
- The Q70-SBS bus combined with the subway or LIRR is the fastest and most budget-friendly choice. The bus is free, and you just pay for the train ride.
- We’ll break down all your options so you know exactly how to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan smoothly and within your budget.
Transfer from and to LGA Airport at a Glance
To kick things off, here’s a quick overview of your options for getting to and from LaGuardia Airport:
| Price | Duration | Where to buy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q70-Bus + Train Recommendation | approx. $2,90-$8,25 | 30-45 min. | on site |
| Taxi | approx. $40-$65 | 30-60 min. | on site |
| Private Transfer | approx. $60-$100 | 30-60 min. | Book online |
Q70-SBS + Train from LGA Airport to the City
- Lines: Q70-SBS + subway lines E, F, M, R, 7 (via Roosevelt Av/74 St) or 7 + LIRR (via Woodside)
- Travel time: about 30 to 45 minutes
- Operating hours: 24/7, all day, every day
- Frequency: Q70 runs every 8–10 minutes, subway every 4–12 minutes depending on line, LIRR every 15–30 minutes
Where do the bus and train stop? The Q70-SBS (LaGuardia Link) picks up right outside each terminal. It’s clearly marked and easy to find. The bus takes you either to Roosevelt Av/74 St for the subway or Woodside for the LIRR to Manhattan. Both stops are in Queens.
Where do you get on? You catch the Q70 SBS bus directly outside your terminal. Then, depending on your route, you transfer to the subway at Jackson Heights or hop on the LIRR at Woodside to continue to Manhattan.
When should you choose the subway or LIRR? The subway is ideal if you’re heading to Queens, the East Side of Manhattan, or Times Square. The LIRR is better if you’re going to the West Side of Manhattan.
How much does the Q70 + subway or LIRR cost? The Q70 bus is free. Subway fare is $2.90. The LIRR costs between $5.25 and $8.25 depending on the time of day.
Where can you buy tickets? You don’t need a ticket for the Q70. Use a contactless credit card, phone, or OMNY card at the subway turnstile. For the LIRR, use a vending machine or the MTA TrainTime app.
Learn more about OMNY and the subway here
Advantages:
- Very affordable way to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan
- Q70 is an express bus with minimal stops
- Quick transfer to key subway lines and the LIRR
- Runs around the clock
Disadvantages:
- You’ll need to transfer (bus to train)
- Not ideal if you have large luggage
- LIRR costs more during peak hours
Taxi from LGA Airport to the City
- Travel time: about 30 to 60 minutes
- Operating hours: Available 24/7 all year round
- Frequency: Taxis are usually waiting at the airport, though there might be a short wait at busy times
Where does the cab stop? Yellow Cabs are stationed right outside each terminal. Follow the signs to the taxi stand, where staff will help you get an official cab.
Where do you get in? Head outside to the “Taxi Dispatch Area.” An airport employee will guide you to your cab.
How much does a taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan cost? Unlike JFK, there’s no flat fare. Expect to pay around $40 to $65 depending on traffic and your destination—this includes tolls and tip.
How do you pay? Pay inside the cab, either with cash or a credit card. All Yellow Cabs accept cards. Be sure to get a receipt.
Advantages:
- Direct ride to your hotel or destination—no transfers
- Great choice if you’re tired or carrying heavy bags
- Credit cards accepted
- Simple, stress-free option
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than public transportation
- No fixed fare—price varies with traffic
- Can be slow and costly during rush hour
Private Transfer from LGA Airport to the City
- Travel time: about 30 to 60 minutes
- Operating hours: 24/7, though advance booking is usually required
- Frequency: Pick-up based on your booking time; some waiting time possible for flight delays
Where does the private ride pick you up? Your driver will meet you right outside your arrival terminal. You’ll get detailed info on the meeting point before your flight lands.
Where do you get in? Right at the terminal exit. You’ll either meet your driver holding a name sign, or get a message with pick-up details.
How much does a private transfer from LaGuardia to Manhattan cost? It depends on the provider and vehicle type, but prices usually range from $60 to $100 per ride. Larger cars cost more. You pay online in advance. Tip (15–20%) is often added.
Where can you book a private transfer? Trusted providers like Go Airlink NYC or GetYourGuide let you book online in advance. You can enter your flight details and pick-up time for convenience.
Book a LGA Airport private transfer with GetYourGuide
Book LGA Airport private transfer with Go AirLink
Advantages:
- Very convenient, especially with luggage or kids
- Driver will wait even if your flight is delayed
- Fixed prices—no surprises like with taxis
- No navigating or transfers
- Direct drop-off at your destination
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than taking the bus or subway
- You need to book ahead
- May require changes if your flight schedule shifts
Hotels at LaGuardia Airport New York: Our Tips
Got a super early flight or landing late at night? Then staying overnight near the airport might make sense. There are several good hotel options close to LaGuardia. Here are our favorites:
Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport: A modern, stylish hotel with a free airport shuttle—great for a short, comfy stay nearby.
New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott: A classic airport hotel with excellent soundproofing—ideal for a quiet night’s rest.
You can find more tips about where to stay in NYC here:
FAQ about LaGuardia Airport
How much does an Uber cost from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
An Uber from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan usually costs between 40 and 70 dollars – depending on the destination, time, traffic and demand.
During rush hour or bad weather, the price can also be higher.
The exact fare is displayed in the app before you book.
Also note that, unlike cabs, Uber drivers are not directly on site. This can therefore result in a longer journey time.
Is there a free shuttle from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
No, there is no free direct shuttle from LaGuardia to Manhattan. However, the Q70-SBS bus from the airport to the nearest subway station is free and is part of the public transportation system.
This is a cheap and relatively quick way to get into the city. But you will have to change buses.
Is it better to fly to JFK or LaGuardia for Manhattan?
That depends a little on your destination in Manhattan. Generally speaking, LaGuardia is closer to the city center and is particularly suitable for destinations in Upper Manhattan or Midtown.
JFK is further out, but offers more international connections and a good connection via AirTrain and subway.
For shorter distances, LaGuardia is often the better choice – especially for domestic flights.
Can you buy an OMNY card at LaGuardia Airport?
Yes, at LaGuardia Airport you can buy an OMNY top-up card from the machine in the terminal area. You will need these cards to use the bus and subway in New York.
Alternatively, you can also do without the top-up card and pay contactless directly at the turnstiles using a credit card, smartphone or smartwatch.
How early do i need to get to LaGuardia airport?
For domestic flights you should be at LaGuardia Airport at least 2 hours before departure, for international flights at least 3 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
The cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan is to take the Q70 bus and the train (Subway or LIRR). The total cost is between 3 and 8 dollars.