New York, a metropolis that never sleeps, is the dream destination of countless travelers. But after landing, the first problem many people face is-how to get from the airport to the city center, saving money and not tossing? This is not only about budget control, but also affects the first impression of the entire journey.

Ⅰ. Understand the three major airports in New York

The three major airports in New York are located in different administrative districts, and the traffic conditions are different. Choosing the right method is the first step to save time and budget.

JFK Airport: Located in Queens, it has many international routes and complete facilities.

EWR Airport: Located in New Jersey, it serves North American and European routes, and the traffic is relatively complicated.

LGA Airport: Also located in Queens, it mainly serves domestic routes. It is the airport closest to Manhattan, but lacks a direct subway.

The transportation options corresponding to different airports are slightly different, but they can be generally classified into three categories, which will be explained in detail below.

Ⅱ. Public transportation – the best partner for budgeters

For those who are used to traveling alone, backpackers, and independent travelers with strict budget control, public transportation is still the most cost-effective choice. Although the process may involve multiple transfers, it is always the first choice for “money savers” with reasonable fares and high-frequency operating hours.

JFK Airport Public Transportation

The most economical way to depart from JFK is to take the Airport Express AirTrain JFK and then connect to the subway system to enter Manhattan. AirTrain JFK has two terminal stations to choose from: Howard Beach Station (connecting to Line A) or Jamaica Station (connecting to Line E, Line J, and Line Z).

The full cost is around ten dollars. AirTrain itself does not provide free transfers. You need to pay a fixed fee. The fare for taking the subway is calculated according to New York City standards.

The time is relatively stable, usually between 60 and 75 minutes, depending on the transfer time and waiting time.

Suitable for backpackers, budget travelers, and light travelers.

The New York subway is not always comfortable, especially during peak hours, it is often crowded, but it is cheap. It is recommended that travelers who come to New York for the first time familiarize themselves with the subway map in advance and download transportation apps (such as Citymapper or Transit) to assist navigation.

EWR Airport Public Transportation

Newark Airport is located in New Jersey. From the airport, you can take AirTrain Newark to the Newark Airport Train Station, and then transfer to the New Jersey Commuter Railway (NJ Transit) or Amtrak to Manhattan.

The whole trip costs about $20 per person. Although it is slightly more expensive than JFK, it is still cost-effective compared to taking a taxi.

It takes between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the train schedule and the waiting time for transfers.

Suitable for travelers who are not afraid of transfers, have a need for budget control, but still want to get to the city a little faster.

It should be noted that AirTrain Newark system and NJ Transit train tickets need to be purchased separately. Travelers can use Omio to buy train tickets in advance to avoid queuing on site.

LGA Airport Public Transportation

LaGuardia Airport does not have a direct subway, but can be connected to the subway system via the Q70 SBS express bus.

The most recommended route is Q70 to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt subway station, and then transfer to E, F, M or R line to enter Manhattan.

The total cost is as low as one subway fare, which is suitable for those who use OMNY or MetroCard and is extremely economical.

Suitable for travelers who are willing to try bus transfers, do not have large luggage, and are familiar with city navigation.

This route is currently one of the most cost-effective ways to get to the city. Q70 is a high-frequency express line with a dedicated luggage storage area, and the commuting experience is relatively friendly.

III. Airport bus and shared shuttle bus – the balance point between comfort and economy

If you don’t want to squeeze into the subway, don’t want to transfer multiple times, and don’t want to spend more than a hundred dollars on a private car, then the airport bus or shared shuttle bus is undoubtedly the best balance.

Bus options at JFK Airport

One of the most popular options at present is the hotel shuttle service provided by Go Airlink NYC, which shares a car on demand to different areas of Manhattan.

The price per person is usually around $20. Booking is required in advance. It supports multiple third-party platforms, such as Klook, Viator, and GetYourGuide.

The vehicle is comfortable and can accommodate large luggage.

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the number of passengers.

Suitable for those who are visiting New York for the first time, carrying a lot of luggage, or are not familiar with the subway system.

This mode is very suitable for family travel or elderly travelers. Although the road is slightly detour, the overall experience is much friendlier than the subway.

Bus options at EWR Airport

Newark Airport Express is the most common bus method from Newark Airport to Manhattan, with fixed stops such as Bryant Park, Grand Central, and Port Authority.

The single fare is more than ten dollars, and some platforms support the purchase of round-trip tickets for a better price.

The shuttle runs every 20-30 minutes, and the journey time is about 45 to 60 minutes.

Suitable for travelers who have more time and do not want to share or transfer.

You can place an order in advance through booking platforms such as GetYourGuide.

This service has been running for many years and has mature experience. It is an ideal balance between comfort and price for EWR passengers.

Bus options at LGA Airport

Although LaGuardia is close, it is a bit awkward due to the lack of direct transportation. In addition to the bus combination, there are also a few shuttle services connecting Manhattan, such as SuperShuttle or GetTransfer.

The fare is slightly higher than public buses, usually between a dozen dollars and more than twenty dollars.

It is easily affected by peak traffic, but it is more intuitive and convenient than the subway.

Suitable for tourists who have difficulty dragging luggage or arriving in New York for the first time.

Although there are fewer optional brands than JFK and EWR, it can still meet the needs of some passengers who want to reduce transfers.

IV. Shared taxi platform-the most worry-free but costly option

Shared travel platforms such as Uber, Lyft, and Via provide great convenience for people who are accustomed to mobile app operations. They provide “door-to-door” services from the airport to the hotel, which is the most comfortable but also the most expensive way.

Departing from JFK

During normal hours, the price of a standard car is about $70 to $90, and it may exceed $100 during peak hours.

It takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Suitable for multiple people, business trips, late night or early morning arrivals.

You can make an appointment through the Uber and Lyft App, which also supports estimated costs and time.

In addition, you can choose a lower-priced carpooling service, such as Via, but you need to wait for other passengers to carpool and match, which takes a little longer.

Departing from EWR

Due to interstate travel (New Jersey to New York), the price is usually higher:

The one-way price starts at $80, and using a shared service is still cheaper than a taxi.

Interstate fees and tolls are included in the total price, so you need to understand the pricing mechanism in advance.

Lyft is more flexible in scheduling EWR, and Via has limited service here.

Suitable for those who are troubled by transfers or want to get to the hotel quickly after a flight delay.

Departing from LGA

LGA is the most suitable airport for taxis among the three major airports. It is short from Manhattan and the cost is low.

During normal hours, the fare is about thirty to fifty dollars, depending on the car model and destination.

Even if you choose a carpooling service, the arrival time is guaranteed.

Suitable for short-distance flyers or family group travel.

It is recommended to use the App to check the estimated fare, avoid calling a taxi during peak hours or consider public transportation alternatives.

V. Comprehensive comparison

When choosing a mode of transportation, budget is not the only consideration. Here are a few suggestions to help travelers make judgments based on their own circumstances:

Limited budget + not afraid of transfers: give priority to public transportation, especially the subway + AirTrain mode

First visit to New York + a lot of luggage: recommend bus or shuttle bus service to reduce the pressure of route planning

Traveling with many people + tight time: Sharing a taxi is cost-effective, and multiple people can share the cost and save time

Late night arrival + familiar with App operation: give priority to ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Lyft

There is no absolute right or wrong in choosing which one, but it is necessary to return to the essence of the journey: while reasonably controlling the budget, make your first encounter with this city easy, smooth and warm.