JFK to Manhattan: A Guide for Getting from the Airport to the City (By a Local)
John F. Kennedy International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, and for many travelers, it’s their first introduction to New York City. Because of that, people often assume getting into the city will be overwhelming, which is exactly why so many travelers overthink how to get from JFK to Manhattan.
I’ve traveled between JFK and Manhattan more times than I can count, and while it can take time, it doesn’t have to be stressful, and it can be done on a budget. Once you understand the transportation options, getting into the city is actually very manageable.
If you’re worried about navigating your way into Manhattan after landing, don’t be. This guide breaks down exactly how to get from JFK to Manhattan, whether you’re looking for the fastest option, the cheapest route, or the least stressful ride.
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Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan: What You Should Know
Before diving into all of the options for getting from JFK to Manhattan, there are a few important things to keep in mind before booking your flights.
🤔 Why Fly Into JFK Airport?
JFK is New York City’s main international airport, and it’s the most common option if you’re flying long-haul or arriving from overseas. While it is far from convenient for me (a Jersey girl) it’s a bit more convenient if you’re staying in Long Island, Queens, or Lower Manhattan.
While JFK is farther from Manhattan than LaGuardia, and getting from Newark to Manhattan is the easiest for Midtown, JFK typically offers the most flight variety and the best flight prices.
JFK is ideal if you’re staying in Long Island, Downtown Manhattan, or anywhere along subway lines that connect easily from Queens. LaGuardia tends to be better for Upper Manhattan, and Newark often works best for Midtown or New Jersey.
🛂 How Long Does it Take to Get Through JFK?
JFK handles a massive volume of international arrivals, so customs wait times can vary significantly. Sometimes you’ll be through in 20 minutes (rarely), and other times it can take over an hour, depending on the time of day and how many flights arrive at once.
U.S. passport holders and travelers using Global Entry usually move much faster, but it’s important to factor this into your planning when planning your journey from JFK to Manhattan.
Once you’re landside, transportation options are clearly marked and easy to follow. So even though the airport is big, it isn’t crazy confusing to find where you need to go, and despite what many people say, real New-Yorkers take pride in helping people, even if they’re not smiling ear-to-ear while doing so.
⭐️ What is the Best Way for Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan?
My personal favorite way of getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan is using public transportation, specifically the AirTrain combined with the subway or Long Island Rail Road.
However, depending on your arrival time, luggage, or group size, taxis and rideshares can also make sense.
Here are the main options for getting from JFK to Manhattan:
Fun Fact: During Covid there were Uber helicopters into NYC!
How to Get from JFK to Manhattan
Now that you know what to expect at JFK, let’s break down each option for how to get from JFK to Manhattan in detail.
🚆 How to Get from JFK to Manhattan by AirTrain + Subway
The most budget-friendly and reliable way of getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan is by using the AirTrain combined with the NYC subway.
Step 1: Taking the AirTrain from JFK
The AirTrain runs 24/7 and arrives every 5 to 10 minutes. It leaves from every terminal, making it a super simple way to start your travels from JFK to Manhattan.
The AirTrain operates within JFK and connects all terminals to two major transit hubs:
Step 2: From Jamaica or Howard Stations Transfer to the Subway or LIRR
Once you get to Jamaica or Howard Station, you’ll exit the AirTrain, and pay for your fare.
From Jamaica Station, you can transfer to:
From Howard Beach, you can transfer to Subway line A
The AirTrain fare is $8.50, and tickets can only be paid after you get off the AirTrain. You purchase them directly from the kiosk, and used via a Subway Card. The subway fare is $3.00, and can be paid with contactless or with a Subway Card (although it’s not totally necessary).
The total travel time for getting from JFK to Manhattan using this method is typically 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your final destination.
💎 In a few rare occasions the AirTrain was so busy that the security at Jamaica opened the gates up for free travel!
🚆 How to Get from JFK to Manhattan by AirTrain + LIRR
If you’re looking for the fastest public transportation option, the AirTrain combined with the Long Island Rail Road is your best bet.
Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then transfer to the LIRR, which brings you to:
LIRR trains are fast and comfortable, and the ride into Manhattan usually takes 20 to 25 minutes. This makes the total travel time from JFK to Manhattan often under an hour.
LIRR fares vary based on peak vs off-peak times, but this option is ideal if you want speed and don’t mind paying a bit more for convenience. This is one of the most efficient ways of getting from JFK to Manhattan, especially during rush hour.
To get to the LIRR, simply take the escalator down to street level after getting off the AirTrain in Jamaica. The LIRR is just next door, and tickets can be purchased by one of the kiosks, or from the MTA app.
💳 Fare Information for Trains and Subway
In case you missed any of the payment information, here are the key things to know about paying for transportation from JFK to Manhattan.
🚖 Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan with Uber or Lyft
Uber and Lyft are widely available at JFK, but prices vary heavily depending on traffic and demand. Honestly, this is definitely not my recommendation for getting from JFK to Manhattan, because it’s super expensive, and the traffic in both Long Island and Manhattan are horrendous.
During peak hours, rideshare prices can get extremely expensive, especially when heading into Manhattan. This option works most ideally late at night, with a group, or if you have lots of luggage and want a door-to-door ride.
If you’re researching how to get from JFK to Manhattan, ride shares are convenient but rarely the cheapest choice.
🚕 Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan by Taxi
Yellow taxis at JFK operate on a flat fare system to Manhattan, which makes pricing more predictable than rideshares.
The current flat fare is $70, plus tolls and tip. While traffic can still affect travel time, the price won’t change based on congestion.
This can be a solid option if you want simplicity and don’t want to deal with transfers, especially after a long international flight.
🚐 How to Get from JFK to Manhattan with Private Transportation
Private transportation is ideal for families, corporate travelers, or larger groups.
You can pre-book shared shuttles, private sedans, or luxury SUVs through platforms like Viator or Get Your Guide, locking in your price ahead of time.
This option avoids surprises with traffic-based pricing and is often more comfortable than taxis or ride shares. Though it’s not super budget-friendly, it can be better during times like rush hour with tons of traffic, and if you’re traveling with several other people and want convenience.
🚗 Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan by Rental Car
Driving into Manhattan from JFK is not recommended unless you absolutely need a car.
Between traffic, tolls, congestion pricing, and parking costs, it’s usually much more stressful and expensive than any other option, especially if you’re not used to aggressive driving.
Renting a car makes sense only if you’re staying outside Manhattan or planning trips beyond NYC. If you are looking to save money during your trip, you could you could potentially base yourself in Long Island, Queens, or Brooklyn and rent a car, but it’s really only if you’re in a desperate situation.
How to Get from JFK to Manhattan: Final Thoughts & What’s Next
JFK Airport offers more transportation options than most travelers realize, and once you understand how the AirTrain works, how to get from JFK to Manhattan becomes much more straightforward.
Whether you choose the subway for savings, the LIRR for speed, or a taxi for convenience, knowing your route before landing makes all the difference.
With the right plan, getting from JFK to Manhattan doesn’t have to be overwhelming at all.
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👀 What’s Next?
Now that you know how to get from JFK to Manhattan, you’re probably ready to learn all about visiting New York City!
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We hope you got a lot of helpful information from our guide, and will be able to confidently get from JFK to Manhattan!
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