Quick Answer
The fastest and most recommended way from Newark Airport to most of Jersey City is by taking the NJ Transit train to Newark Penn Station, then transferring to the PATH train. This takes about 35-50 minutes and costs $10.75 - $15.25. The cheapest option is the NJ Transit Bus #62 to Journal Square, costing just $1.60, but it takes 45-70 minutes. For door-to-door convenience, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) costs $45 - $80+ and takes 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Option 1: By Train (NJ Transit & PATH) – The Best Balance of Speed & Cost
Combining the NJ Transit AirTrain with the mainline train and PATH is the most efficient public transit route for most travelers heading to Jersey City destinations like Journal Square, Grove Street, or Exchange Place.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Take the AirTrain: From any EWR terminal, follow signs for "AirTrain" (it's free within the airport). Take the AirTrain to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station (not to the Rental Cars or P4).
- Buy an NJ Transit Ticket: At the station, use a ticket machine or the NJ Transit app to buy a ticket to "New York Penn Station" via Newark Penn Station. The price includes the AirTrain fee. (Official NJ Transit Fares).
- Board the NJ Transit Train: Take any NJ Transit train heading toward New York Penn Station. Get off at the first stop: Newark Penn Station (about a 20-minute ride).
- Transfer to the PATH: Inside Newark Penn Station, follow signs for "PATH". Use a PATH SmartLink card or buy a single-ride ticket. Take either the Journal Square-33rd Street (via Hoboken) line or the Newark-World Trade Center line, depending on your final stop in Jersey City.
Key Details & Pro Tips:
- Total Cost: $10.75 (NJ Transit $8.25 + PATH $2.50) to $15.25 (if paying AirTrain fee separately).
- Total Time: 35 to 50 minutes, depending on wait times.
- Best For: Travelers with light to medium luggage, budget-conscious travelers wanting speed, and those staying near a PATH station.
- Luggage: Manageable on trains, but avoid peak rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) when trains are crowded.
- PATH Destinations in Jersey City:
- Journal Square: For the Heights, Bergen-Lafayette.
- Grove Street: Heart of downtown JC, restaurants, bars.
- Exchange Place: Waterfront, financial district, ferries to Manhattan.
Option 2: By Bus – The Most Budget-Friendly Choice
NJ Transit operates several bus routes connecting EWR to Jersey City. They are significantly cheaper but slower and subject to road traffic.
Primary Bus Options:
| Bus Route | Pick-up at EWR | Main Drop-off in Jersey City | Approx. Travel Time | 2024 Fare | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #62 | Terminals A, B, & C (Ground Level) | Journal Square Transportation Center | 45 - 70 mins | $1.60 | Cheapest option. Exact change or NJ Transit app ticket required. Runs 24/7 but less frequent at night. |
| #67 | Terminals A, B, & C (Ground Level) | Journal Square, Liberty State Park | 50 - 75 mins | $1.60 | Good for access to Liberty State Park area. |
| GoBus 28 (Formerly #28) | Terminals A, B, & C | Exchange Place, Newport Centre Mall | 40 - 60 mins | $1.60 | Direct to Jersey City waterfront. Check NJ Transit's GoBus schedule for real-time tracking. |
Is the Bus Right for You?
- Pros: Extremely low cost, direct to some neighborhoods, no transfers needed.
- Cons: Unpredictable travel time due to traffic, limited space for large luggage, can be confusing for first-timers to find correct stop.
- Tip: Use the NJ Transit app to buy your ticket in advance and see real-time bus locations.
Option 4: By Taxi – Fixed Fare but Expensive
Yellow taxis are available at authorized taxi stands outside each terminal. This is generally the least cost-effective door-to-door option.
- Fare Structure: A flat rate to all destinations in Jersey City. As of 2024, the rate is approximately $60 - $75, plus tolls and tip. Always confirm the flat rate with the driver before entering.
- Travel Time: Similar to rideshares (20-40 mins).
- When to Consider a Taxi:
- Your phone is dead and you can't book a rideshare.
- There is extreme surge pricing on rideshare apps.
- You prefer the certainty of a regulated, pre-set fare (though it's high).
- Warning: Only use taxis from the official queue. Decline offers from solicitors inside the terminal.
Option 5: Cost & Time Comparison Table (2024)
Use this table to quickly compare all your options from Newark Airport to Downtown Jersey City (e.g., Grove Street).
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (Per Person) | Approx. Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (NJ Transit + PATH) | $10.75 - $15.25 | 35 - 50 mins | Best overall value, speed + budget | Requires one easy transfer at Newark Penn |
| NJ Transit Bus (#62/GoBus) | $1.60 (Cheapest) | 40 - 75 mins | Solo travelers on a tight budget | Traffic-dependent, limited luggage space |
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $45 - $80+ | 20 - 40 mins | Groups, heavy luggage, late arrival | Price surges dramatically with demand |
| Taxi (Flat Rate) | $60 - $75+ (tip & tolls) | 20 - 40 mins | When rideshare surge is extreme | Most expensive door-to-door option |
Verdict: For most travelers, the train combo is the winner. For pure budget, take the Bus #62. For convenience in a group, split a rideshare.
Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Trip
- Download Essential Apps: Before you land, install the NJ Transit app for tickets and schedules, and Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time transit directions combining NJ Transit and PATH.
- Get a Transit Card: If you'll be in NYC/NJ for a few days, a MetroCard (works on PATH) or a PATH SmartLink card saves time and money on fares.
- Navigating Newark Penn Station: It's a large, busy station. Allow 5-10 minutes to find the PATH entrance. Look for red PATH signs or ask station staff.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have very heavy or oversized bags, the train transfer can be a hassle. A rideshare directly to your hotel may be worth the premium.
- Late-Night Arrivals: After ~1 AM, train and bus frequencies drop. The NJ Transit #62 bus runs 24/7, making it a reliable, cheap overnight option. Rideshares are always available but priced higher.
- Weekend PATH Service: Be aware that PATH sometimes runs on altered schedules or reroutes on weekends for maintenance. Check the PATH Service Alerts page before you travel.
FAQs: Newark Airport to Jersey City Transportation
Is there a direct train from Newark Airport to Jersey City?
No, there is no single direct train. You must take the NJ Transit train from the airport station to Newark Penn Station (one stop), then transfer to the PATH train which goes into Jersey City. The process is seamless and well-signed.
What is the cheapest way from EWR to Jersey City?
The absolute cheapest way is the NJ Transit Bus #62, which costs only $1.60 and goes directly to Journal Square. The train combination (NJ Transit + PATH) offers much better speed for a relatively low cost ($10.75+).
How much is a taxi from Newark Airport to Jersey City?
The official flat rate for a taxi from EWR to any destination in Jersey City is approximately $60 to $75, not including tolls (approx. $3.50) and tip (15-20%). The total will likely be $75-$90.
Is Uber or Lyft cheaper than a taxi from Newark Airport?
Usually, yes. In non-surge conditions, an UberX or standard Lyft is typically $45-$65, which is cheaper than the taxi flat rate. However, during high demand, surge pricing can make rideshares more expensive than taxis.
How do I get from EWR to Jersey City late at night?
Your best options are:
- NJ Transit Bus #62 (runs 24/7, every 30-60 mins at night).
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or a taxi, which are always available but more expensive.
- NJ Transit trains run until about 2 AM, so check the schedule if arriving before then.
What's the fastest way to get to the Jersey City waterfront (Exchange Place)?
The train combo (NJ Transit to PATH) taking the Newark-World Trade Center PATH line is fastest, getting you to Exchange Place in about 35 minutes. The GoBus 28 bus is a slower but direct alternative.
I have a lot of luggage. What should I do?
If you have more than one large suitcase per person, the train transfer can be challenging. Consider:
- Splitting a rideshare (UberXL/Lyft XL) with your group for door-to-door service.
- Taking the train to Newark Penn, then a short, cheaper rideshare from there to your final Jersey City address.
Does the PATH train accept the MTA MetroCard?
Yes. PATH accepts pay-per-ride MTA MetroCards (not Unlimited Ride cards). You can also use a PATH SmartLink card or contactless payment (Apple/Google Pay, contactless credit/debit cards) at the turnstiles.