AirTrain JFK
The automated rail link connecting JFK terminals to the subway at Jamaica and Howard Beach.
Example
The route locals use is AirTrain to Jamaica and the E train onward, about an hour to Midtown for a fraction of a taxi fare.
Related terms
Getting around
Q70 LaGuardia Link
The free express bus connecting LaGuardia Airport to the subway and LIRR at Jackson Heights and Woodside.
Getting around
OMNY
The MTA's tap-to-pay fare system on all subways and buses, which took over from the MetroCard when card sales ended...
Getting around
Yellow Cab
The classic metered taxi hailed from the street, still the fastest door-to-door option in the Manhattan core.
Getting around
MetroCard
The yellow swipe card that ruled New York transit from 1993 until sales ended December 31, 2025.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest reliable way from JFK to Manhattan?
AirTrain to Jamaica plus the E train, roughly an hour to Midtown. The LIRR upgrade halves the rail time for a few dollars more.
Should I just take a taxi from JFK?
Yellow cabs charge a flat rate to Manhattan plus tolls and tip, worth it for groups or luggage. Solo on a budget, AirTrain wins.
Is the LIRR upgrade worth it from Jamaica?
For a few dollars more it halves the rail time into Penn Station or Grand Central Madison, which is worth it with luggage or after a long flight.
