Landing in New York City feels exciting — until you realize you still need to get from the airport to Manhattan. Whether you arrive at JFK Airport, LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Airport (EWR), you’ll immediately see dozens of transport options: subway, AirTrain, taxi, Uber, shuttle, train…

For first-time visitors, this is one of the most confusing parts of planning a New York City trip. The good news? Getting from JFK to Manhattan, LaGuardia to Manhattan, or Newark to Manhattan is much easier — and cheaper — than most people expect.

After multiple NYC trips using every method possible, here’s exactly how to get to Manhattan, including the cheapest option, easiest option, and best option depending on your situation.

Overview: The 3 Main Airports Serving New York City

New York City has three major airports, and your best route depends on which one you land at.

JFK Airport (John F. Kennedy International Airport)

• Main airport for international flights
• Located in Queens, about 25 km from Manhattan
• Best balance of public transport and taxi options
• Most popular arrival airport for international travelers visiting NYC

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

• Closest airport to Manhattan
• Mostly domestic flights
• No direct train or subway connection from the airport itself
• Fastest taxi/Uber access to Manhattan

Newark Airport (EWR)

• Located in New Jersey
• Excellent direct train connection to Manhattan
• Often cheaper flights than JFK or LGA
• Surprisingly easy airport transfer to Manhattan

Cheapest Way to Get to Manhattan: Public Transport ($3–$15) 💰

If you’re looking for the cheapest way from JFK to Manhattan, LaGuardia to Manhattan, or Newark to Manhattan, public transport is the clear winner.

From JFK Airport to Manhattan: AirTrain + Subway

This is the most popular budget option.

How it works:

• Take the AirTrain from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station or Howard Beach Station
• Transfer to the NYC subway system
• Take the subway directly into Manhattan

Cost: about $11–$15 total
Travel time: 50–75 minutes

Why this is great:

• Reliable and safe
• Runs 24/7
• Used daily by locals and travelers

This is the best cheap airport transfer from JFK to Manhattan.

From LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan: Bus + Subway

LaGuardia Airport does not have a direct train, but the bus system connects easily to the subway.

How it works:

• Take the airport bus to the nearest subway station
• Transfer to the subway to reach Manhattan

Cost: about $3 total
Travel time: 45–60 minutes

This is the absolute cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan.

From Newark Airport to Manhattan: AirTrain + NJ Transit Train

This is one of the easiest and most underrated airport transfers.

How it works:

• Take the AirTrain from Newark Airport to Newark Airport Station
• Transfer to NJ Transit train
• Arrive directly at Penn Station in Manhattan

Cost: about $15
Travel time: 40–60 minutes

This is often the best overall airport transfer from Newark to Manhattan.

Easiest Way to Get to Manhattan: Taxi or Uber ($40–$90) 🚖

If convenience matters more than saving money, taxi or Uber is the easiest airport transfer option.

This is ideal if:

• You have heavy luggage
• You arrive late at night
• You’re traveling with friends or family
• It’s your first time visiting New York City

Taxi from JFK to Manhattan

• Flat rate fare (excluding tolls and tip)
• No price surprises
• Door-to-door service

Uber or Lyft from JFK, LGA, or Newark

• Flexible pickup
• Easy to book through app
• Prices vary depending on traffic and demand

Travel time depends heavily on traffic, but typically ranges from 45–90 minutes.

For groups of 3–4 people, Uber or taxi often becomes cost-effective per person.

Best Option Based on Your Travel Situation

Here’s the honest recommendation based on real NYC travel experience:

Best for budget travelers:
AirTrain + subway or train

Best for first-time NYC visitors:
Taxi or Uber (simplest and least stressful)

Best for groups:
Uber or taxi (split cost)

Best for solo travelers with light luggage:
Public transport

Best for late-night arrivals:
Uber or taxi

Realistic Travel Times to Manhattan ⏱️

Travel times vary depending on traffic, weather, and time of day.

Typical airport transfer times:

• JFK Airport to Manhattan: 50–75 minutes
• LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan: 30–60 minutes
• Newark Airport to Manhattan: 40–60 minutes

Rush hour traffic can increase travel time significantly, especially for taxis and Uber.

Common Airport Transfer Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

Many travelers make these mistakes when arriving in New York City:

• Paying too much for private transfers unnecessarily
• Taking unofficial taxis inside terminals
• Assuming Uber is always cheaper
• Avoiding public transport due to fear or confusion
• Not checking which airport they’re flying into

NYC public transportation is safe, reliable, and used by millions daily.

My Honest Recommendation (Based on Real NYC Trips)

After arriving at all three NYC airports multiple times, here’s the best option for each:

• JFK Airport → Manhattan: AirTrain + Subway
• LaGuardia Airport → Manhattan: Taxi/Uber or Bus + Subway
• Newark Airport → Manhattan: NJ Transit Train

Public transport is often the best balance between price, speed, and simplicity.

Once you arrive in Manhattan, getting around becomes much easier thanks to the subway, walking, and short Uber rides.

Make Your First NYC Trip Easy From Day One 🗽

Getting from the airport to Manhattan is just the first step. Knowing where to stay, how to get around, and which neighborhoods to explore makes a huge difference in how much you enjoy New York City.

That’s exactly why I created the New York CityBook — to remove the overwhelm and help you experience NYC with confidence.

What’s included:
✅ Best neighborhoods to stay in Manhattan
✅ Subway tips & transport strategies
✅ Local food spots and must-see attractions
✅ Safe areas, walking routes & insider tips
✅ Instant PDF — use it offline anywhere

Trusted by 10,000+ travelers exploring New York City

👉 Explore the New York CityBook