How to Get from Newark Airport (EWR) to NYC Downtown

Quick Answer

The fastest way to get from Newark Airport to NYC Downtown is the AirTrain + NJ Transit train (30-40 minutes to Penn Station, $15.50 total). Take the free AirTrain to Newark Airport Station, then any NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. For direct service to Lower Manhattan: AirTrain + PATH train (45-55 minutes, $11.75 total) to World Trade Center. For door-to-door convenience: Taxi or rideshare (30-60 minutes, $70-100+ with tolls and tip). Newark Airport is in New Jersey, not New York, so you're crossing state lines—this affects transit options and costs compared to JFK or LaGuardia.

AirTrain & NJ Transit Train from EWR to NYC

Taking the AirTrain and NJ Transit train from Newark Airport to NYC is the fastest and most reliable public transit option. The AirTrain connects all terminals to the Newark Airport Station, where you catch NJ Transit trains directly to New York Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. The entire journey takes 30-40 minutes and costs $15.50 (includes the $8.25 AirTrain fee). For solo travelers or couples with manageable luggage heading to Midtown, this is the best value. During NYC's rush hour traffic (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM), the train is consistently faster than any road-based transportation across the Hudson River.

Transport Option	Travel Time	Approximate Cost	Best For	Notes
AirTrain + NJ Transit	30-40 minutes	$15.50 per person	Midtown Manhattan, Penn Station area	Fastest public transit option
AirTrain + PATH	45-55 minutes	$11.75 per person	Lower Manhattan, Financial District	Direct to World Trade Center
Taxi (metered)	30-60 minutes	$70-100+ with tolls/tip	Door-to-door convenience	Available 24/7 at taxi stands

Step-by-Step: How to Take NJ Transit from EWR

When you exit baggage claim at Newark Airport (EWR), follow the signs for "AirTrain" (look for the orange signs). The AirTrain is free to ride between EWR terminals. Take the AirTrain to Newark Airport Station (not the P4 parking station). At Newark Airport Station, buy a ticket to "New York Penn Station" from the NJ Transit vending machines. The $15.50 fare includes the $8.25 AirTrain fee. Board any NJ Transit train bound for New York Penn Station (most trains on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines). The ride takes 25 minutes with one stop at Newark Penn Station. The internet says it's straightforward, but I've seen confused travelers buy separate AirTrain tickets—you only need one combined ticket.

NJ Transit Ticket Options and Payment

One-way to New York Penn Station: $15.50 (includes AirTrain). Round-trip: $31.00. NJ Transit app: Mobile ticketing available. Credit cards accepted at vending machines. Important: The $8.25 AirTrain fee is included when you buy a ticket to/from Newark Airport Station. If you're using a mobile ticket, activate it before boarding the train. The vending machines can be confusing when you're tired. I've seen tourists buy the wrong ticket and get stuck at the exit gate. When in doubt, ask an NJ Transit employee for help—they're usually at the station during peak hours.

Late Night NJ Transit from EWR

For late night arrivals (after 1:00 AM), NJ Transit still runs but with reduced frequency. The AirTrain runs 24/7. NJ Transit trains from Newark Airport to New York Penn Station typically run every 60-90 minutes overnight. If your flight arrives after midnight, you'll need to be efficient. The AirTrain still runs, but if you miss a train, you might wait an hour. The internet says trains run late, but "runs" and "runs frequently" are different. Always check the NJ Transit website for current schedules, especially on weekends when there may be service changes.

Train Accessibility and Luggage

NJ Transit trains have dedicated luggage racks at the ends of each car. Most trains have two levels with stairs to the upper level. If you have multiple large suitcases, use the lower level. The Newark Airport Station has elevators from the AirTrain platform to the train platform. I've been both the tourist with luggage and the commuter—one large bag and a carry-on is manageable; more than that and you're better off with a taxi or rideshare, especially during rush hour when trains are crowded with commuters.

PATH Train from EWR to Lower Manhattan

The PATH train system connects New Jersey to Lower Manhattan. From Newark Airport, take the AirTrain to Newark Airport Station, then transfer to the PATH train to World Trade Center. Total cost: $11.75 ($8.25 AirTrain + $2.75 PATH). Travel time: 40-50 minutes. This is the best option if you're staying in the Financial District, World Trade Center area, or near the PATH stations in Manhattan (Christopher Street, 9th Street, 14th Street, 23rd Street, 33rd Street). The PATH train runs 24/7, with reduced frequency overnight.

PATH vs NJ Transit: Which to Choose?

NJ Transit advantages: Faster to Midtown (30-40 minutes vs 45-55 minutes), more comfortable seats, luggage racks. NJ Transit disadvantages: Only goes to Penn Station, more expensive ($15.50 vs $11.75). PATH advantages: Cheaper, direct to Lower Manhattan, connects to multiple Manhattan stops, runs 24/7. PATH disadvantages: Slower, less comfortable (subway-style seats), no dedicated luggage space. If you're going to Midtown: NJ Transit. If you're going to Lower Manhattan: PATH. I've taken both many times—the extra $3.75 for NJ Transit is worth it if you're going to Penn Station area.

PATH Train Experience

The PATH train feels like a subway—plastic seats, standing room, frequent stops. It can get crowded during rush hour. From Newark Airport Station, take any train toward World Trade Center (they all go there). The ride takes about 25 minutes to World Trade Center with stops at Newark Penn Station, Harrison, Journal Square, Grove Street, and Exchange Place. The World Trade Center station is underground and connects to the NYC subway system. I've taken the PATH with luggage—it's doable but not as comfortable as NJ Transit.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Newark with a hotel near Times Square. You see signs for PATH and think, "It's cheaper, I'll take that." You take PATH to World Trade Center, then need to transfer to the subway to get to Times Square. Total travel time: 70 minutes, cost: $11.75 + $2.90 subway = $14.65. Meanwhile, another traveler took NJ Transit directly to Penn Station (next to Times Square) in 35 minutes for $15.50. You saved 85 cents but spent 35 extra minutes and had to transfer with luggage. I see this often—choose your transit based on your final destination, not just price.

Taxi from Newark Airport to NYC

The taxi stand at Newark Airport is outside each terminal at the ground transportation area. Follow the "Taxi" signs. Newark taxis to NYC use meters, not flat rates. The fare starts at $3.50 plus $0.70 per 1/5 mile. Expect to pay $70-100+ to most Manhattan destinations, plus tolls ($15-20) and tip (15-20%). Taxis are available 24/7. The ride takes 30-45 minutes without traffic, but during NYC's rush hour crossing the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge, it can take 60-90 minutes.

Newark Taxi Experience: The Reality

Many travel guides present taxis as the "easy" option. The reality from Newark: it's often the most expensive choice, and traffic can be brutal. The meter keeps running in traffic, so a rush hour trip can cost $120+. For a family of four with luggage, the math might work out—$25-30 per person for a taxi versus $62 total for NJ Transit. I've taken taxis from Newark when arriving exhausted with multiple bags or with elderly family—the door-to-door convenience is worth the premium, but for most solo travelers, the train is the better choice if you can handle your luggage.

Tolls and Surcharges Explained

Tolls from Newark to Manhattan: Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel: $16.00 (peak hours), $13.75 (off-peak). George Washington Bridge: $17.00 (peak), $13.00 (off-peak). The driver will add these to your fare. Additional surcharges: Peak hour (weekdays 6-10 AM, 4-8 PM) +$5.00, Night surcharge (8 PM-6 AM) +$0.50. The meter should be running and visible. Don't accept a flat rate quote from a taxi driver—they should use the meter. If a driver offers a flat rate, it's usually higher than the metered fare would be.

Another Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Newark at 5:00 PM on a Friday—peak rush hour. You see the taxi line and think, "It's about $70, I'll just take a taxi." The ride takes 85 minutes stuck in traffic at the Lincoln Tunnel. The meter reads $95, plus $16 toll, plus $22 tip = $133 total. You arrive at your Midtown hotel $133 poorer and exhausted. Meanwhile, another traveler took the AirTrain+NJ Transit, spent $15.50, and arrived in 40 minutes. For a solo traveler, that's $117.50 extra for a slower, more stressful trip. I see this happen all the time—the taxi is tempting, but the train is a much better value if you're traveling light and alone, especially during rush hour.

Uber & Lyft from Newark Airport

Rideshare Pickup at EWR

Uber and Lyft pickup at Newark is at designated zones in the Central Parking area. Follow signs for "Ride App Pickup" or check your app for specific pickup location. Typical cost to NYC: $60-90 depending on vehicle type and demand. During surge pricing (Friday evenings, holidays, bad weather, peak travel times), prices can exceed $120-150. For 2-3 people sharing, this can be cost-competitive with a taxi and more convenient than the train with luggage.

When Rideshare Makes Sense vs. Taxi

Despite the similar cost, rideshare is worth it when: 1) You want to know the price upfront (taxis are metered so variable). 2) You need a larger vehicle (UberXL, UberSUV). 3) You're going to an address in Brooklyn or Queens (some taxi drivers resist going outside Manhattan). 4) You prefer the app experience. 5) You want to avoid the taxi line (though rideshare can have waits too). The internet often says "just take a taxi," but during high-demand times, the rideshare pickup area might be less crowded than the taxi line.

Understanding Surge Pricing at EWR

Rideshare prices at Newark fluctuate dramatically based on demand. High demand times: Friday evenings (3-9 PM), Sunday evenings (returning travelers), holidays, during bad weather, and peak travel seasons. I've seen UberX prices hit $130 for a Manhattan trip that normally costs $75 during Thanksgiving weekend. If you see surge pricing, consider: 1) Waiting 15-20 minutes (demand often subsides). 2) Taking a taxi instead (metered, but no surge). 3) Taking the AirTrain to Newark Airport Station and requesting from there to avoid airport surge pricing.

Airport Shuttle Services from EWR

Shared shuttle vans (like Newark Airport Express, Go Airlink) operate from Newark to major Manhattan locations. Cost: $19-35 per person. While it's cheaper than a taxi for solo travelers, I don't actually recommend it for most visitors. The shuttles make multiple stops at different hotels in each zone, so your 45-minute ride could become a 90-120 minute tour of Manhattan. After a long flight, waiting for other passengers and making stops is frustrating. The only exception might be if you're traveling alone to a hotel not near Penn Station or a PATH stop and want door-to-door service at a lower cost than a taxi.

Shuttle Experience: What to Really Expect

The shuttle counters are in the baggage claim areas. You purchase a ticket, then wait for the next van. The van loads 10-15 passengers with luggage, then begins the circuit of Manhattan hotels by zone (Midtown, Downtown, Times Square). If you're the first stop in your zone: 60-75 minutes. If you're the last stop: 90-120 minutes. The drivers are professional and help with luggage, but the multiple stops test your patience. Some travel blogs say "shuttles are fine," but they're usually written by people with unlimited time or those who got lucky with their stop order.

Who Should Take the Shuttle?

The shuttle is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers wanting door-to-door service at lower cost than taxi. 2) Those going to hotels not near Penn Station or PATH stops. 3) People who aren't in a hurry. Not suitable for: Families (cost adds up quickly), those with tight schedules, anyone arriving exhausted, or travelers with lots of luggage (space is limited).

Shuttle vs Train vs Taxi: A Reality Check

Shuttle advantages: Door-to-door, cheaper than taxi for solo travelers. Shuttle disadvantages: Multiple stops, unpredictable timing, shared with strangers. Train advantages: Predictable timing, cheaper, avoids traffic. Train disadvantages: Transfers required, stairs with luggage, not door-to-door. Taxi advantages: Direct, available 24/7. Taxi disadvantages: Most expensive for solo travelers, subject to traffic. For $15.50, the train gives you predictability the shuttle can't match.

Private Transfer & Car Service

Private transfer services can be pre-booked online. Cost: $100-200+ depending on vehicle type. A driver meets you at baggage claim with a sign, helps with luggage, and drives directly to your destination. While expensive, it's completely stress-free. Luxury sedan: $100-140. SUV for 6 passengers: $140-180. Limousine: $180-250+. This option makes sense for corporate travel, special occasions, or groups wanting luxury service.

When Private Transfer Makes Sense

Despite the high cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You're traveling for business on an expense account. 2) You're a group of 4+ people (splitting makes it reasonable). 3) You're celebrating a special occasion (honeymoon, anniversary). 4) You have mobility issues requiring special assistance. 5) You want absolute certainty and luxury service. The internet often says "just take the train or a taxi," but for corporate travelers or those celebrating, the $120 sedan transfer is a worthwhile splurge.

Hotel Airport Shuttle Services

Very few Manhattan hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles from Newark. Some airport-area hotels in New Jersey do, but Manhattan hotels generally don't. Always confirm when booking. Some luxury hotels (Waldorf Astoria, Plaza, etc.) can arrange paid private transfers starting around $100+. Budget and mid-range hotels rarely offer this service.

Public Bus Options from Newark Airport

NJ Transit buses serve Newark Airport but I don't actually recommend them for airport arrivals with luggage to NYC. The #62 bus goes to Newark Penn Station ($1.60), where you transfer to PATH ($2.75) to NYC. Total: $5.75, travel time: 60-90 minutes. While it's the cheapest option, the buses have limited luggage space, make many local stops, and you have to transfer in Newark. The AirTrain+train is only $5.75-9.75 more and significantly faster and more comfortable.

Bus vs AirTrain: The Real Comparison

#62 bus to Newark Penn + PATH to NYC: 60-90 minutes, $5.75. AirTrain to Newark Airport Station + PATH to NYC: 40-50 minutes, $11.75. For the extra $6, you save 20-40 minutes and get a more comfortable ride. I've taken the #62 bus when the AirTrain was down for maintenance—it was fine, but I wouldn't choose it over the AirTrain. The internet might list buses as an option, but in practice, only the most budget-conscious travelers with unlimited time should consider them.

Coach USA / Newark Airport Express Bus

The Newark Airport Express bus is a direct coach to Manhattan. Cost: $19 one-way, $35 round-trip. Travel time: 45-60 minutes without traffic. Stops at Port Authority Bus Terminal (Times Square), Bryant Park, and Grand Central. This is actually a decent option if you're going to these areas and don't mind potential traffic delays. It's more expensive than the train but less than a taxi. I recommend it over shared shuttle vans as it makes only 3 stops in Manhattan.

Train Lines: All Stops from EWR to NYC

From Newark Airport, you have two main rail options: NJ Transit to New York Penn Station or PATH to World Trade Center. Here are the key stations and travel times:

NJ Transit Northeast Corridor Line (to New York Penn Station)

1. Newark Airport Station - AirTrain connection (0 minutes)
2. Newark Penn Station - Transfer to PATH, NJ Transit other lines, Amtrak (8 minutes from EWR)
3. New York Penn Station - Midtown Manhattan, Amtrak, LIRR, NYC Subway (25-30 minutes from EWR)

PATH Train (Newark to World Trade Center Line)

1. Newark Airport Station - AirTrain connection (0 minutes)
2. Newark Penn Station - (8 minutes from EWR)
3. Harrison - (11 minutes)
4. Journal Square - Jersey City (15 minutes)
5. Grove Street - Jersey City (18 minutes)
6. Exchange Place - Jersey City waterfront (21 minutes)
7. World Trade Center - Lower Manhattan, Oculus, 9/11 Memorial (25-30 minutes from EWR)

PATH Train (World Trade Center to 33rd Street Line - Within Manhattan)

Once at World Trade Center, you can transfer to the PATH line that runs up Manhattan's West Side:

1. World Trade Center - (0 minutes)
2. Christopher Street - West Village (3 minutes)
3. 9th Street - Greenwich Village (5 minutes)
4. 14th Street - Chelsea (7 minutes)
5. 23rd Street - Chelsea/Flatiron (9 minutes)
6. 33rd Street - Herald Square, Macy's (11 minutes)

Key NYC Stations for Visitors

• New York Penn Station: Best for Amtrak, NJ Transit, LIRR, Madison Square Garden, and Midtown west. Connects to A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 subways.
• World Trade Center: Lower Manhattan, 9/11 Memorial, Oculus, Financial District. Connects to A, C, E, R, W, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 subways.
• 33rd Street (PATH): Herald Square, Macy's, near Penn Station and Empire State Building.
• 14th Street (PATH): Chelsea, Meatpacking District, High Line.
• Christopher Street (PATH): West Village, Washington Square Park, NYU.

How to Navigate from Train to Your Hotel

From New York Penn Station (most common): Most Midtown hotels are within a 5-15 minute walk. The station is at 7th Ave and 31st-33rd St. For hotels near Times Square: Walk north on 7th Ave. For hotels near Herald Square: Walk east on 34th St. For hotels near the Theater District: Walk north on 8th Ave. If you have heavy luggage, consider a taxi from the station to your hotel (short ride, $10-15) or use a rideshare.

From World Trade Center: Financial District hotels are within a 5-10 minute walk. The station is at Church and Fulton Streets. For hotels near Wall Street: Walk south. For hotels near Battery Park: Walk west. For hotels near City Hall: Walk north.

Return Trip: NYC to EWR by Train

From New York Penn Station, take any NJ Transit train going to Newark Airport (not all trains stop there—check the board). Travel time: 25-30 minutes. Fare: $15.50. Transfer to AirTrain to your terminal (included in fare).

From World Trade Center, take PATH to Newark Penn Station, transfer to Newark Airport Station, then AirTrain to your terminal. Travel time: 40-50 minutes. Fare: $11.75.

For early morning flights, check the schedule—first trains from Manhattan start around 5:30 AM, arriving at EWR around 6:00-6:30 AM. For flights before 8:00 AM, this may be cutting it close—consider a taxi or car service instead.

Newark Airport to NYC Downtown Route Map

The map below shows the routes from Newark Liberty International Airport to New York City. The AirTrain connects to rail lines that cross the Hudson River into Manhattan, with different options depending on your destination.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from Newark Airport to NYC on Google Maps

The distance from Newark Airport to NYC is approximately 15-20 miles (24-32 km) depending on route. By car, the most direct route is via the New Jersey Turnpike to the Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel, which takes 30-45 minutes without traffic. The train covers a similar distance in 25-40 minutes but is immune to traffic delays at the tunnels.

EWR to NYC: Ticketing & Costs

Ticketing Tips and Payment Methods

NJ Transit: Tickets available at vending machines at Newark Airport Station, on the NJ Transit app, or with contactless payment at some stations. PATH: Use PATH SmartLink card (buy at vending machines) or pay with contactless credit card/phone. AirTrain fee: Included when you buy a train ticket to/from Newark Airport Station. If you're using a contactless card for PATH, you'll need to buy a separate AirTrain ticket ($8.25) at the AirTrain station.

Cost Comparison: The Real Math

Solo traveler: Train $15.50 vs. Taxi $100 (save $84.50). Couple: Train $31 vs. Taxi $100 (save $69). Family of 4: Train $62 vs. Taxi $100 (save $38) but luggage space matters. Group of 4 with lots of luggage: UberXL $100 vs. Taxi $100 (similar cost). I've done all these calculations many times—the train almost always wins on pure cost, but convenience and time have value too, especially after a long flight with lots of luggage.

Traveler Experience: Getting to NYC from Newark Airport

Arriving at Newark Airport can be confusing for first-timers. The airport has three terminals (A, B, C) that are not connected inside—you need to take the AirTrain to move between them. After collecting your bags, you'll see signs for all ground transportation options. The walk to the AirTrain can be long in some terminals. The whole arrival process is efficient but requires knowing which option you want before you exit.

First-Time Visitor Experience

As a first-timer, it's straightforward but requires attention: If taking the train, follow the orange "AirTrain" signs. Take the AirTrain to Newark Airport Station (not the P4 parking station). If taking a taxi, follow the "Taxi" signs right outside baggage claim. If using rideshare, check your app for which parking area to go to. The airport is designed to move people efficiently, but during peak arrival times (11 AM-2 PM, 7-10 PM), there can be lines for taxis and rideshare.

The Reality of Hudson River Crossings

Crossing the Hudson River into Manhattan is the main bottleneck. The Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, and George Washington Bridge are congested most daylight hours. Rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM) can double or triple travel times. Friday afternoons are particularly bad. The train avoids this entirely by using tunnels that don't get traffic jams. The internet might say "30-45 minutes by car," but that's only at 3 AM. At 5 PM on a weekday, the same trip can take 60-90 minutes. I've sat in Friday evening traffic for 2 hours from Newark to Midtown—a trip the train makes in 30 minutes consistently.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at 5:30 PM on a Friday with one suitcase. To save $45, you choose Uber over the train. The app says 40 minutes, $70. You request the ride, wait 10 minutes for pickup, then sit in bumper-to-bumper traffic at the Lincoln Tunnel. The trip takes 85 minutes and costs $85 with surge pricing. You arrive exhausted and frustrated. Meanwhile, another traveler took the AirTrain+NJ Transit, spent $15.50, arrived in 35 minutes, and read a book the whole way. I see this miscalculation daily—during rush hour, the train is both faster and cheaper.

Practical Tips & Advice for EWR to NYC

• With large luggage: Taxi or rideshare if you have more than one bag per person. The train has luggage racks but requires moving bags on/off trains.
• First-time visitor tip: Take the NJ Transit train if you're going to Midtown. It's fast, reliable, and gives you a stress-free entry to NYC. Save $50+ for a nice dinner.
• Late night arrival (after 1:00 AM): Taxi is your most reliable option. Rideshare is available but may have surge pricing. Train frequency drops.
• Early morning flights: First NJ Transit train from Penn Station is around 5:30 AM, arriving EWR around 6:00 AM. For flights before 8:00 AM, consider a taxi to be safe.
• With kids: Rideshare or taxi is easiest. The train is doable with kids but requires managing them and luggage.
• Cost-saving tip: Train for solo travelers. For 2+ people, compare: 2 train tickets = $31 vs. rideshare = $70. The breakeven is around 3 people.
• Time-saving tip: During rush hour (4-7 PM), train is most reliable. At 10 PM, taxi is fastest if no traffic.
• Group travel: 1-2 people: Train. 2-3 people: Compare rideshare vs. train cost. 4+ people: Taxi or UberXL.
• Buying tickets: Train: Vending machines at Newark Airport Station or NJ Transit app. Taxi: Pay driver cash/credit. Rideshare: App.
• Weekend vs weekday: Train runs similar schedule. Traffic is lighter on weekends except near tunnels/bridges. Rideshare may have surge pricing on weekend evenings in Manhattan.
• Hotel location: Most Midtown hotels are within 5-15 minute walk of Penn Station. Most Financial District hotels are within 5-10 minute walk of World Trade Center.
• Return trip: From NYC to EWR, allow: Train+AirTrain 40-60 minutes. Taxi/rideshare 30-60 minutes + traffic buffer.
• Mobile apps: Download: NJ Transit, PATH, Uber/Lyft, Citymapper, Google Maps.
• Rainy/snowy weather: Train is best—you're covered. Taxi/rideshare means walking in bad weather to/from vehicle.
• Peak tourist season (June-August, December): All options are busier. Train can be crowded with tourists. Rideshare may have surge pricing. Book private transfers in advance.
• Holiday travel: Allow extra time. The day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year. All options will be overwhelmed.
• Accessibility: AirTrain and trains are accessible. Taxis must accommodate wheelchairs. Notify rideshare in app if you need accessible vehicle.
• Safety: Train is generally safe. Be aware of surroundings, especially late at night at Newark Penn Station. Taxis are safest but most expensive.
• Bargaining: Not applicable. Taxis are metered. Train is fixed fare. Rideshare shows price in app.
• Tipping: Taxi: 15-20%. Rideshare: Optional, 10-15% for good service. Train: No tipping.

Frequently Asked Questions: EWR to NYC