Quick Answer
Best Overall Method: Take the free AirTrain to Newark Airport Rail Station, then an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. Total time: 45-60 minutes. Total cost: ~$15.50. This is the optimal balance of speed, price, and reliability, avoiding unpredictable Manhattan traffic.
By Train: AirTrain + NJ Transit / Amtrak (Recommended)
This is the most efficient and recommended public transit route. It involves a seamless, two-step process entirely on rails, making it immune to road traffic.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Follow "AirTrain" Signs: From any terminal baggage claim, follow clear overhead signs to the AirTrain station (free within the airport).
- Board the AirTrain: Take the AirTrain to the "Newark Liberty International Airport Station" (not "P4" or other stops). The ride takes 5-10 minutes.
- Purchase Your Ticket: At the rail station, use ticket vending machines. Select a ticket to "New York Penn Station." The $8.25 AirTrain fee is automatically included in your NJ Transit ticket price. You can use credit/debit cards or cash.
- Board Your Train: Check the overhead boards for the next NJ Transit train to "New York Penn Station."> Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line trains both go there. The journey takes 25-30 minutes.
- Arrive in Midtown: You'll arrive underground at New York Penn Station (W. 31st to 34th St, between 7th & 8th Ave), a major hub with subway (ACE123), taxi, and walking access to Herald Square, Koreatown, and Chelsea.
| Service | Route | Frequency | Travel Time (Rail Segment) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NJ Transit (Recommended) | Newark Airport → NY Penn Station | Every 20-30 mins (5 AM - 2 AM) | ~25-30 minutes | Most frequent, best value. Cost: $15.50 total (includes AirTrain fee). |
| Amtrak | Newark Airport → NY Penn Station | Multiple daily (schedule varies) | ~25 minutes | More expensive ($30-$80), but offers more seating space and amenities. Useful if you have a thru-rail ticket. |
Pro Tip: If you're traveling light and want to save a few dollars, you can take the NJ Transit Bus #62 to Newark Penn Station ($1.60), then catch a PATH train to Manhattan ($2.75). Total cost ~$4.35, but it adds significant time and complexity.
By Bus: Express Coach & Public Bus
Buses are a cost-effective and straightforward option, though subject to traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
Newark Airport Express (Coach USA)
This is the dedicated, non-stop bus service between EWR and three key Manhattan locations.
- Price: $18 one-way, $30 round-trip. Children under 5 free. Tickets can be bought online or from the driver (cash/credit).
- Pick-up: Outside each terminal at Level 1 (follow "Bus" and "Ground Transportation" signs).
- Drop-off in Manhattan:
- Grand Central Station (E. 41st St between Park & Lexington)
- Port Authority Bus Terminal (W. 41st St between 8th & 9th Ave) - closest to Times Square.
- Bryant Park (W. 42nd St & 5th Ave)
- Travel Time: 45-60 minutes, but can exceed 90+ minutes during rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM).
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes, operating from ~5 AM to 1 AM.
NJ Transit Public Bus #62
The absolute cheapest option, but slow and less convenient for tourists with luggage.
- Price: $1.60 (exact change required).
- Route: Travels to Newark Penn Station, not directly to Manhattan. From there, you must transfer to PATH or another NJ Transit train.
- Travel Time: 60-90+ minutes to reach Manhattan, depending on connections.
- Best For: Budget travelers with very little luggage and ample time, or for 24/7 service when other options have stopped.
By Private Car or Shuttle Service
For a guaranteed, pre-booked, and hassle-free experience, particularly suited for groups, business travel, or those with special needs.
Private Sedan or SUV Service
- Price: $120 - $250+ one-way, depending on vehicle class, company, and gratuity.
- Booking: Must be booked in advance through companies like Carey, Blacklane, or Dial 7.
- Service: Driver meets you at baggage claim with a name sign, assists with luggage, and provides a direct trip to your destination.
- Best For: Corporate travel, families with young children, groups of 3+, travelers with mobility issues, or late-night arrivals seeking maximum comfort and certainty.
Shared-Ride Vans / Shuttles
- Price: $25 - $50 per person.
- How it Works: You book a seat in a van that may make multiple stops to drop off other passengers at different Manhattan hotels/addresses.
- Pros: Cheaper than a private car, door-to-door.
- Cons: Can be slow (waiting for the van to fill, then multiple stops). Not ideal if you are in a hurry.
- Companies: SuperShuttle (re-emerging in some markets), Go Airlink NYC.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all your options from Newark Airport to Midtown Manhattan.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Total Travel Time | Best For | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirTrain + NJ Transit Train | $15.50 | 45-60 min | Most travelers; best value & reliability | Not 24/7; need to manage luggage on trains/stairs. |
| Newark Airport Express Bus | $18 | 45-90+ min | Budget travelers going to Port Authority/Times Square area | Subject to road traffic delays. |
| NJ Transit Bus #62 + PATH Train | ~$4.35 (Cheapest) | 60-90+ min | Extreme budget travelers, 24/7 travel | Multiple transfers, slow, not luggage-friendly. |
| Taxi (Yellow Cab) | $100 - $120 (incl. tolls & tip) | 35-120+ min | Groups of 3-4, door-to-door convenience | Flat rate but expensive; traffic-dependent. |
| Uber/Lyft (Average) | $70 - $120+ (incl. tip) | 35-120+ min | Solo/duo travelers valuing convenience, dynamic pricing | Price surges common; wait times possible. |
| Private Car Service | $120 - $250+ | 35-90+ min | Business, luxury, families, groups | Most expensive; requires advance booking. |
Verdict: For best overall value, choose the train. For the absolute lowest cost, take the public bus + PATH. For door-to-door ease with a group, split a taxi or rideshare.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Luggage Strategy
If you have large or multiple suitcases, the train is manageable but requires you to be mobile. AirTrains have luggage racks, and NJ Transit trains have overhead racks and seats with flip-up space in front. For a truly hands-free experience with heavy bags, a taxi/rideshare is worth the cost.
Navigating Traffic & Timing
- Avoid Rush Hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM Weekdays): If you land during these times, the train is vastly superior to any road-based option. Bus and car times can double.
- Weekends & Holidays: Tunnel traffic into Manhattan can be heavy on Sunday evenings and holiday weekends. Check events (e.g., UN General Assembly, Marathon) that cause gridlock.
Money & Tickets
- Buy Train Tickets at the Airport: Don't wait until you get to the platform. Use the vending machines at the Newark Airport Rail Station. The machines accept cards and cash.
- Keep Your Ticket: You will need to insert your NJ Transit ticket to exit the turnstiles at New York Penn Station.
Connectivity & Apps
- Download the NJ Transit app for real-time train schedules and mobile ticketing (though purchasing at the airport station vending machine is simplest for first-time users).
- Free Wi-Fi is available at Newark Airport terminals and on NJ Transit trains.
Safety & Navigation
Newark Airport and the train route are generally safe and well-patrolled. At New York Penn Station, stay in the main, busy concourses. Have your destination address ready for taxi/rideshare drivers. If unsure, ask uniformed airport or station staff for directions.
FAQs: Getting from Newark Airport to Manhattan
What is the best way to get from Newark Airport to Midtown Manhattan?
For most travelers, the best combination of speed, cost, and convenience is taking the free AirTrain to the Newark Airport Rail Station, then boarding an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station in Midtown. This avoids traffic and takes about 45-60 minutes total for around $15.50.
Is there a direct train from Newark Airport to Manhattan?
No single train runs directly from the airport terminals. You must first take the free AirTrain (a monorail) to the Newark Airport Rail Station, then transfer to an NJ Transit or Amtrak train into Manhattan (primarily to New York Penn Station).
What is the cheapest way to get from EWR to Midtown?
The cheapest option is the NJ Transit Bus #62, which goes to Newark Penn Station for $1.60 (exact change), where you can transfer to a PATH train to Manhattan ($2.75). Total ~$4.35 but time-consuming. A better value is the Newark Airport Express bus for $18 one-way or the train combination for $15.50.
How much is a taxi or Uber from Newark to Midtown?
A yellow taxi has a flat rate of $70-$85 (plus tolls ~$15 and tip) to Manhattan. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) vary from $60 to $120+ depending on demand. Expect to pay $90-$120 total on average.
I arrive late at night / early morning. What are my options?
The AirTrain and NJ Transit trains run from approx. 5 AM to 2 AM. For arrivals between 2 AM and 5 AM, your only public transit is the 24/7 NJ Transit Bus #62. Otherwise, you'll need a taxi, rideshare, or pre-booked private car, available 24/7.
Is the Newark AirTrain free?
Riding between airport terminals is free. However, to travel to/from the Newark Airport Rail Station, there is an $8.25 fee, which is automatically included when you buy your connecting NJ Transit/Amtrak ticket.
I have a lot of luggage. What's the easiest option?
A taxi, rideshare, or private car service is easiest for heavy luggage, offering door-to-door service. The train is manageable with luggage areas, but you must handle bags yourself through stations.
How long does it take to get from Newark Airport to Times Square?
Times Square is near Port Authority and Penn Station. By train, it's about 50-70 minutes total. By the Newark Airport Express bus, it's 45-60 minutes to Port Authority, then a short walk. By car, it can range from 35 to over 90 minutes in traffic.