Quick Answer
The best overall way from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Long Island City for most travelers is the Q70 Select Bus Service to the subway. It’s the official, budget-friendly recommendation. The fastest way is a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking 15-30 minutes but costing $40-$70. The cheapest way is the Q70 bus + subway combo, costing only the MetroCard fare of $2.90. There is no direct train.
Subway & Public Transit (The Recommended Budget Choice)
While there is no subway station inside LaGuardia Airport, a dedicated bus-to-subway connection is the official and most cost-effective public transit route. This involves two seamless steps.
Step-by-Step Guide: The Standard Route (Q70 + E/M/R Trains)
- Take the Q70 Select Bus Service (SBS): Find the purple-signed Q70 stop at any LGA terminal. Board the bus heading to “Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave/74 St.” The ride takes 10-20 minutes. Tip: Use the off-board ticket machines or tap your OMNY/ MetroCard for payment. The Q70 is free when you transfer from the subway, or costs the standard fare.
- Transfer at Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave: This is a major subway hub. Get off the Q70 and follow signs downstairs to the subway lines.
- Best Option: Take the E or M train (Queens Blvd Line) towards Manhattan/World Trade Center or Forest Hills-71 Av. Get off at Court Sq-23 St (for central LIC) or Queens Plaza.
- Alternative: Take the R train (also at Jackson Heights) towards Bay Ridge. Get off at Queens Plaza.
- Arrive in Long Island City: Your total travel time from airport curb to LIC subway stop is typically 45 to 75 minutes.
Alternative Route: From Marine Air Terminal (Terminal A) via N/W Train
If you arrive at Terminal A (serving Delta and others), you have a unique, walking-involved option:
- Walk (~10-15 mins) or take a free shuttle to the Ditmars Blvd station (Astoria Line).
- Take the N or W train southbound towards Coney Island.
- Get off at Queensboro Plaza station in Long Island City. Travel time: ~50-70 minutes.
Bus Details: The Q70 Select Bus Service (SBS) Deep Dive
The Q70 SBS is the linchpin of public transit from LGA. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cost: Standard MTA fare ($2.90 as of 2024). It’s FREE if you transfer from the subway using a MetroCard with a valid transfer or OMNY within 2 hours. You must obtain a proof-of-payment receipt from the ticket machine before boarding.
- Frequency: Buses run frequently, approximately every 8-15 minutes, 24/7.
- Luggage: Buses have limited space. Large suitcases can be problematic during busy times. Consider the front area or be prepared to hold your bag.
- Key Advantage: It has dedicated lanes for part of its route, making it more reliable than local buses in traffic.
- Destination: It terminates directly at the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave subway complex, eliminating any guesswork for the transfer.
For official schedules and real-time tracking, visit the MTA Q70 schedule page.
Taxi, Rideshare & Private Car (Fastest, Door-to-Door)
For speed, convenience, or traveling with a group/luggage, a direct car service is the superior choice, despite the higher cost.
Yellow Taxi (NYC Cab)
- Where to Find: Official taxi stands are located outside the baggage claim area of each terminal. Follow signs.
- Fare Estimate: The meter will run. Expect to pay $40 to $70 for the trip to Long Island City, depending on traffic and your final destination. This includes all tolls (if any) and fees.
- Payment: Cash or credit/debit card accepted.
- Travel Time: 15 to 30 minutes in normal traffic.
Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)
- Where to Find: Designated rideshare pickup zones are at each terminal. Use the app after collecting luggage; it will direct you to the correct pickup area (e.g., “Zone 3”).
- Fare Estimate: Often comparable to or slightly cheaper than yellow taxis. Prices are dynamic (surge pricing during high demand). A typical UberX/Lyft Standard ride ranges from $35 to $65.
- Tip: Check both apps for the best price. Wait times can be longer than for taxis during peak arrival times.
Pre-Booked Private Car or Shuttle
For a guaranteed, fixed-price, meet-and-greet service, you can book a private car in advance through companies like Carmel or Dial 7. This is ideal for business travel, families, or those with special needs. Rates start around $65-$85 plus tolls and tip.
Walking, Biking & Other Alternatives
While not mainstream, these options exist for specific scenarios:
- Walking to Subway (Terminal A only): As mentioned, a 10-15 minute walk to Ditmars Blvd station is possible from the Marine Air Terminal.
- Citi Bike / Citi Bike: Adventurous travelers with minimal luggage can bike. There are Citi Bike docks near the airport perimeter and throughout Long Island City. However, navigating airport roads and the Queensboro Bridge plaza is not for the faint of heart.
- Local Buses (Not Recommended): Various local MTA buses (Q47, Q48, etc.) serve LGA but are slower, make many stops, and require more complex transfers. The Q70 SBS is specifically designed for airport passengers and is almost always the better choice.
Cost & Time Comparison: LaGuardia to Long Island City
Use this table to quickly decide which mode fits your budget and schedule.
| Transport Mode | Estimated Cost (2024) | Estimated Time | Best For | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q70 Bus + Subway | $2.90 (MetroCard fare) | 45 - 75 min | Budget travelers, solo travelers, light packers | Cheapest option. Q70 is free with subway transfer. Requires one easy transfer. |
| Yellow Taxi | $40 - $70 (metered) | 15 - 30 min | Groups of 3-4, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals, convenience seekers | Fastest door-to-door option. Fixed pickup points. Price varies with traffic. |
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $35 - $65 (dynamic) | 15 - 30 min (+ wait) | Tech-savvy travelers, those wanting upfront pricing | Convenient app payment. Subject to surge pricing. Designated pickup zones. |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | $65 - $90+ | 15 - 30 min | Business travel, families, special occasions, fixed-budget needs | Guanteed service, meet-and-greet. Most expensive option. |
| Walk + N/W Train (Terminal A) | $2.90 | 50 - 70 min | Arrivals at Terminal A with one small bag | Avoids the bus. Involves a 10-15 minute walk with luggage. |
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Beyond the schedules, here’s real-world advice for a smooth journey:
- Download Essential Apps: Have the MYmta or Citymapper app ready for real-time subway/bus info. Have Uber/Lyft installed as a backup.
- Get an OMNY Card or MetroCard: If using public transit, purchase a MetroCard at the airport or set up contactless payment (OMNY) with your phone/credit card before you arrive. Machines at LGA are often in the baggage claim.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have large bags and choose the Q70, try to board at the start of the route (your terminal) for the best chance at luggage space.
- Traffic & Time Buffer: Always add 30-45 minutes to any estimated travel time, especially during weekday rush hours (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM) or in bad weather. LGA access roads are notorious for congestion.
- Know Your LIC Stop: Long Island City is large. Confirm which subway stop (Court Sq, Queensboro Plaza, Queens Plaza) is closest to your final hotel or address.
- Late-Night Arrivals: While the Q70 and subway run 24/7, service is less frequent after midnight. For safety and speed after a late flight, a taxi or rideshare is highly recommended.
FAQs: LaGuardia Airport to Long Island City
Is there a direct train from LaGuardia Airport to Long Island City?
No, there is no direct train or single-seat ride from any LaGuardia terminal to Long Island City. You must combine a bus (like the Q70) with a subway line, take a taxi/rideshare, or use a combination of walking and subway depending on your terminal and destination in LIC.
What's the cheapest way from LGA to Long Island City?
The cheapest option is public transit: the Q70 Select Bus Service to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave/74 St station, then transferring to the E, F, M, or R subway to Long Island City. The total cost is the MetroCard fare ($2.90 as of 2024). The Q70 bus is free when transferring from the subway.
How much is a taxi from LaGuardia to Long Island City?
A yellow taxi fare from LaGuardia to Long Island City typically costs between $40 and $70, depending on traffic, time of day, and your exact destination. This includes tolls and fees. The estimated travel time is 15-30 minutes. Rideshare apps (Uber/Lyft) may offer comparable or slightly lower prices.
How long does it take to get from LGA to Long Island City?
Travel time varies greatly by mode:
- Taxi/Rideshare: 15-30 minutes
- Public Transit (Bus+Subway): 45-75 minutes
- Walking+Subway (from Terminal A): 50-70 minutes
What is the best way from LGA to Long Island City with lots of luggage?
For travelers with multiple or heavy bags, a taxi, rideshare, or pre-booked private car is highly recommended. Navigating buses and subways with large luggage is challenging, especially during peak hours. The convenience and door-to-door service outweigh the higher cost in this scenario.
Can I walk from LaGuardia to Long Island City?
No, walking the entire distance is not feasible, safe, or recommended. The airport is separated from Long Island City by water (Flushing Bay, Bowery Bay) and major highways. The only pedestrian-friendly option is a short walk from the Marine Air Terminal (Terminal A) to the Ditmars Blvd subway station, then taking the train.
Where do I catch the Q70 bus at LaGuardia Airport?
The Q70 Select Bus Service stops are located at all four terminals. Look for purple signs that say "Select Bus Service to Subway." You can find specific stop locations on the official MTA website or via airport signage.
What subway lines serve Long Island City?
Key subway stations in Long Island City include: Court Sq (served by G, E, M, 7 lines), Queensboro Plaza (N, W, 7), and Queens Plaza (E, M, R). Your choice of connection from the Q70 bus will determine which line you take. The E, M, and R trains are most common from the Jackson Heights transfer point.