New York City from an airplane window
NYC My First VisitTransportation

How to Select the Best Airport for Your New York City Adventure

When planning your trip to New York City, selecting the right airport is as crucial as picking the perfect New York slice. The city is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Each has its pros and cons in terms of location, cost, and transit options to Midtown Manhattan. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Location: Southeastern Queens, about 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan.

Transportation to Midtown:

  • Public Transit: The AirTrain JFK connects to the subway. You’ll take the AirTrain to the Howard Beach or Sutphin Boulevard station, then catch the A or E train on the NYC subway to Manhattan. Cost: AirTrain is $8, and the subway fare is $2.75, totaling $10.75. Time: Approximately 60 minutes.
    • You can also opt to take the AirTrain to Jamaica station and catch the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to either Grand Central Station (on the east side of midtown Manhattan) or Penn Station (on the west side of midtown Manhattan). You will be able to catch major subway lines from either Grand Central Station or Penn Station Cost: The AirTrain is $8, and the LIRR fare ranges from $5 – $10.75 depending on when you’re traveling, totaling $18.75 per person on the high end.
      • Beat of NYC pro tip: The extra $8 is worth it. You will get to Manhattan much faster taking the LIRR from Jamaica station than if you were to take the subway. The LIRR also has slightly more comfortable seats and is generally cleaner. Download the MTA eTix app to buy your LIRR tickets on your phone. They can also be purchased at machines at JFK. You can also buy them on board but you will be subject to additional fees.
  • Car/Taxi: A taxi ride to Midtown can range from $52 to $70, excluding tips and tolls. All in, plan for spending close to $100. Time: 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pros:

  • Largest array of international flights.
  • Direct public transit option to Manhattan.
  • Wide range of amenities and lounges.

Cons:

  • Can be crowded, leading to longer wait times.
  • Farthest from Manhattan, affecting travel time and cost.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Location: Northern Queens, roughly 8 miles from Midtown Manhattan.

Transportation to Midtown:

  • Public Transit: No direct train service. You can take city bus lines M60 or M70 and then transfer to the subway in the direction you are heading. Cost: $2.75 for the entire journey, as the transfer from bus to subway is free if using a MetroCard or OMNY (OMNY is New York City’s tap-to-pay system. You can also tap your phone or credit card as you would at any other tap-to-pay location. Your payment method will be recognized for a free transfer from the bus to the subway. Time: 45 to 60 minutes.
  • Car/Taxi: A taxi to Midtown is typically $30 to $60, excluding tips and tolls. All in, plan on spending close to $80. Time: 30 to 45 minutes, traffic depending.

Pros:

  • Closest airport to Manhattan.
  • Recent renovations have improved facilities and services.
  • Lower taxi/ride-share costs due to proximity.

Cons:

  • Limited by a no-fly curfew (not 24/7 operations).
  • No direct rail link to the city.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Location: Newark, New Jersey, about 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan.

Transportation to Midtown:

  • Public Transit: The AirTrain Newark connects to NJ Transit, which takes you to New York Penn Station. Cost: AirTrain is $7.75, and NJ Transit varies but is around $15.25, totaling approximately $23. Time: 50 to 60 minutes.
  • Car/Taxi: Taxi rides can cost $50 to $70, plus tolls and tips. All in, plan on spending close to $100. Time: 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pros:

  • Often less crowded than JFK.
  • Direct public transit options to Manhattan.

Cons:

  • Located in a different state, potentially complicating travel plans.
  • Subject to tolls, which can increase the cost of taxi/ride-share services.

Making Your Choice

When deciding between JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, consider factors like your destination within the city, budget, and arrival time. For international travelers, JFK might be the best bet, offering the most options and direct subway access to the city. If you’re aiming for the quickest car ride to Manhattan and potentially cheaper taxi fares, LaGuardia is your go-to. However, for those coming from or through the New Jersey side, Newark’s direct train service to Penn Station is incredibly convenient.

Remember, New York City’s charm lies in its complexity and connectivity. Whichever airport you choose, you’re just a ride away from the heart of the action in Midtown Manhattan. Safe travels, and welcome to New York City!