What is the cheapest way to get from LaGuardia to JFK?

The cheapest option is the public bus and subway combination for $2.90. Take the Q70-SBS bus from LGA to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave/74 St subway station, then transfer to the E train to Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer, and finally take the AirTrain JFK to your terminal. Total travel time is about 90-120 minutes.

What is the fastest way to get from LGA to JFK?

The fastest way is by taxi, Uber, Lyft, or private car service, especially outside of peak traffic hours. The direct drive takes 30-45 minutes, but during rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM), it can easily take 60-90 minutes or more. For predictable timing, a pre-booked private transfer is best.

Is there a direct shuttle between LaGuardia and JFK?

No, there is no single, direct public shuttle bus or train connecting LaGuardia (LGA) and John F. Kennedy (JFK) airports. You must use a combination of services: taxi/ride-share, public bus+subway+AirTrain, or a private airport transfer service that offers inter-terminal rides.

How much is a taxi from LaGuardia to JFK?

A yellow cab or app-based ride (UberX/Lyft Standard) from LGA to JFK typically costs between $65 and $95, not including tolls ($10-15) and tip (15-20%). The final price depends heavily on traffic, time of day, and the exact route taken. There is a flat fare of $52 + tolls and tip for trips between NYC airports in a yellow taxi, but drivers often don't apply it correctly; always confirm before starting the trip.

How long does it take to get from LGA to JFK by subway?

The public transit route (Bus + Subway + AirTrain) takes approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. This includes: ~15-20 min on the Q70-SBS bus, ~35-45 min on the E subway train, and ~10-15 min on the AirTrain JFK, plus walking and waiting time between each leg. It's reliable but not recommended if you have more than one large suitcase.

Can I use the MTA MetroCard for the entire journey?

Almost. You can use a pay-per-ride MetroCard for the Q70-SBS bus ($2.90) and the E subway train (free transfer from the bus). However, the AirTrain JFK requires a separate fare of $8.25, which you must pay using a separate AirTrain ticket or a special AirTrain MetroCard purchased at the station. You cannot use the same $2.90 swipe for the AirTrain.

What is the best option for a family with kids and lots of luggage?

For families or groups with significant luggage, a pre-booked private car service or minivan is highly recommended. Companies like Carmel, Dial7, or Go Airlink Shuttle offer fixed rates, meet you at baggage claim, and handle your bags. This avoids the stress and multiple transfers of public transit and can be more cost-effective than multiple taxis.

What if my flight arrives at LGA late at night?

If you arrive after midnight, public transit options become very limited (subways run less frequently, some bus lines may have ended). Your safest and most reliable options are: 1) A yellow taxi from the authorized taxi line, 2) A ride-share (Uber/Lyft), or 3) A pre-booked private car service. Avoid trying the complex bus/subway route late at night, especially if tired or unfamiliar with NYC.

How to Get from LaGuardia Airport to JFK Airport | Train, Bus, Taxi & Tips

Quick Answer

The best overall way to get from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to JFK Airport is by taxi, Uber, or Lyft, balancing directness, convenience, and time (30-60 mins; $65-$110). The fastest way in light traffic is the same (30 mins). The cheapest way is the public bus + subway + AirTrain combo ($2.90 + $8.25 AirTrain fare; 90-120 mins). There is no direct train or single shuttle connecting the two airports.

Taxi, Uber & Lyft: The Door-to-Door Standard

This is the most straightforward method, ideal for travelers with luggage, on a tight schedule, or arriving late at night.

Aspect	Details
Average Cost	$65 - $110 (incl. tolls & tip)
Travel Time	30 - 90 minutes (highly traffic-dependent)
Convenience	Excellent (curb-to-curb)
Best For	Families, groups, those with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals

Detailed Breakdown & How-To

Yellow Taxis: Follow signs to the authorized taxi dispatcher line outside any LGA terminal. The fare is metered. While a theoretical flat fare of $52 + tolls and tip exists for inter-airport trips, it is inconsistently applied. Always confirm the rate structure with the driver before departing. Expect to pay the Grand Central Parkway and possibly the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE) tolls (~$10.17 total).

Ride-Sharing (Uber, Lyft): Use the designated pick-up zones (clearly signed at each terminal). Costs fluctuate with demand (surge pricing). An UberX or Lyft Standard is comparable to a taxi. Uber Comfort or Lyft Preferred offer newer cars with more legroom. For groups of up to 6, consider UberXL or Lyft XL. Prices are generally locked in when you book.

Pros, Cons & Insider Tip

Pros: Direct, no transfers, luggage-friendly, available 24/7.
Cons: Expensive, cost unpredictable (taxi meter/ride-share surge), completely at the mercy of NYC traffic.
Insider Tip: If traffic looks heavy on the BQE, some drivers may take the Belt Parkway. It's often slower but can be more reliable during peak congestion. Check your map app (like Google Maps or Waze) for real-time routing before you get in the car.

Public Transit (Bus & Subway): The Budget Champion

This multi-leg journey is the most economical but requires navigating the MTA system. It's manageable with one carry-on suitcase but challenging with multiple large bags.

Leg	Route	Cost	Approx. Time	Key Notes
1. Bus	Q70-SBS (LaGuardia Link) to Jackson HeightsâRoosevelt Ave/74 St	$2.90 (MetroCard/OMNI)	15-20 min	Free transfer to subway
2. Subway	E train (towards Jamaica Center) to Sutphin BlvdâArcher AveâJFK Airport	Free (transfer)	35-45 min	Take the Jamaica Center-bound E train
3. AirTrain	AirTrain JFK to your terminal	$8.25	10-15 min	Separate fare; buy ticket at station

Step-by-Step Guide & Critical Details

Step 1: Find the Q70-SBS Bus. Look for purple "LaGuardia Link" signs outside your terminal. The bus is frequent (every 10-15 mins). Pay with a MetroCard (OMNI contactless payment or Apple/Google Pay also work). The $2.90 fare includes a free transfer to the subway.

Step 2: Subway Transfer at Jackson Heights. Get off at the last stop (Jackson HeightsâRoosevelt Ave/74 St). Follow signs for the E train (Jamaica CenterâParsons/Archer direction). This station is a major, complex hub. Allow 5-10 minutes to navigate the transfer walk. Use your free transfer by swiping/ tapping the SAME MetroCard or payment method within 2 hours.

Step 3: Ride the E Train to JFK Access Point. Take the E train to the Sutphin BlvdâArcher AveâJFK Airport station (about 12 stops). This is NOT the final "Jamaica Center" stop; get off one stop earlier.

Step 4: Take the AirTrain JFK. Exit the subway and follow clear signs to the AirTrain. You must purchase an AirTrain-specific ticket ($8.25) from the vending machines (cash/credit). You cannot use a standard subway swipe. Take the AirTrain to your JFK terminal (Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7, 8).

When to Avoid This Option

You have more than one large, wheeled suitcase per person.
It's late at night (after ~11 PM) due to reduced frequency and safety concerns in deserted stations.
You are physically unable to handle stairs and long walks with your bags.
Your layover is less than 4 hours (the risk of delay is too high).

Private Shuttles & Car Services: Stress-Free & Reliable

Pre-booking a shared shuttle or private car offers fixed pricing, reliability, and often a meet-and-greet service. This is a superior alternative to hailing a cab for many travelers.

Shared-Ride Vans (e.g., Go Airlink NYC, SuperShuttle)

You share a van with other passengers going to different terminals/hotels. You must typically book in advance online.

Cost: $25 - $40 per person.
Time: 60 - 90+ minutes (due to multiple stops).
Pro: Cheaper than a private car for solo travelers.
Con: Can be slow; you may be the first on and last off.

Private Car Services (e.g., Carmel, Dial7, Blacklane)

A sedan, SUV, or van reserved just for you/your group. The driver meets you at baggage claim with a sign.

Cost: $90 - $150+ (fixed rate, includes tolls & tip).
Time: 30 - 60 minutes (direct).
Pro: Ultimate convenience, professionalism, fixed price, clean vehicles.
Con: Most expensive non-luxury option; requires advance booking.

Deep Dive: The Value Proposition. While the upfront cost is high, the value lies in predictability. You avoid surge pricing, meter anxiety, and the hassle of finding a ride. For business travelers or families, the time saved and reduced stress is often worth the premium. Companies like Carmel have been serving NYC airports for decades and have reliable fleets and drivers familiar with airport protocols.

Helicopter Transfer: The Ultimate Luxury (& Logistical Challenge)

For the ultimate in speed and exclusivity, a helicopter transfer exists but is a niche, complex, and very expensive option.

Operator: Blade is the primary service.
How it Works: You take a short helicopter flight from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (not LGA) to the JFK Helipad. You must first get from LGA to Manhattan (a 30+ minute taxi/Uber ride).
Total Time: ~60+ minutes door-to-door (including ground transfers to/from heliports).
Total Cost: $695 - $2,000+ per person for the helicopter leg alone, plus ground transportation costs on both ends.
Verdict: This is less a practical transfer and more an "experience" for high-net-worth individuals or special occasions. The time savings are minimal considering the required Manhattan detour.

LaGuardia to JFK: Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison

Method	Approx. Cost (Per Person)	Approx. Travel Time	Transfers / Hassle	Best For
Taxi / UberX / Lyft	$65 - $110 (total car)	30 - 90 min	None (Direct)	Most travelers, groups of 2-4, convenience seekers
Public Transit (Bus+Subway+AirTrain)	$11.15 ($2.90 + $8.25)	90 - 120 min	High (Bus->Subway->AirTrain)	Solo budget travelers with light luggage, during daylight
Shared-Ride Shuttle Van	$25 - $40	60 - 90+ min	Low-Mod (Multiple stops)	Solo/couple travelers on a moderate budget
Private Car Service	$90 - $150+ (total car)	30 - 60 min	None (Direct, Pre-booked)	Business travel, families, groups, fixed-budget seekers
Key Takeaway: The taxi/ride-share offers the best balance for most. Public transit is the budget champion. Private cars offer premium reliability.

Traveler Tips & Insider Advice for the LGA to JFK Journey

Beyond choosing a method, these practical tips can save you time, money, and stress.

1. Traffic is Your Biggest Variable

The Grand Central Parkway and BQE are notoriously congested. Always add a 50% buffer to any estimated driving time. A "30-minute" drive at 10 AM can be 70 minutes at 5 PM. Check live traffic on Google Maps before you commit to a ground transfer.

2. The "Layover Rule"

If you have an international-to-international connection between LGA and JFK, you must collect your bags at LGA, clear customs (if applicable), and re-check them at JFK. This adds at least 60-90 minutes to your transfer time. A 4-hour layover is the absolute minimum to attempt this, and a taxi/private car is mandatory.

3. Luggage Logistics are Crucial

Your luggage choice dictates your best transfer option:

1 carry-on bag: All options are viable, including public transit.
1 large checked bag + carry-on: Taxi, ride-share, or private car recommended.

2+ large checked bags per person:

Private SUV/Van service is essential.

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How to Get from LaGuardia Airport to JFK Airport