Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Newark Airport (EWR) to Seton Hall University is by driving, taxi, or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking 25 to 50 minutes and costing between $40 and $100+. For the cheapest option, take the NJ Transit train to Newark Penn Station, then transfer to the 31 bus, for a total travel time of ~75-90 minutes at a cost of ~$17. There is no single direct public transportation link.
Option 1: By NJ Transit Train & Bus (Most Economical Public Transit)
This is the primary public transit route, ideal for solo travelers or small groups with light luggage. It involves three distinct steps: the airport monorail (AirTrain), a mainline train, and a local bus.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details
- AirTrain to Newark Liberty International Airport Station: From any terminal (A, B, or C), follow signs for "AirTrain" and "Trains." Take the AirTrain (it's free for this journey) to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station. This takes 5-10 minutes.
- NJ Transit Train to Newark Penn Station: Purchase a ticket from the kiosks to "Newark Penn Station" â this includes the $7.75 AirTrain access fee. Board any NJ Transit train on the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line. The ride is one stop and takes about 20 minutes. Trains run frequently, every 20-30 minutes most of the day. (Check NJ Transit Schedules)
- Bus #31 to Seton Hall University: At Newark Penn Station, exit to the adjacent Broad Street Bus Terminal. Find the gate for NJ Transit Bus #31 (Irvington via South Orange). Tell the driver you're going to Seton Hall. The ride takes about 25-35 minutes. Get off at the stop at South Orange Ave at Seton Hall University, right at the main gate.
| Leg of Journey | Service | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal to Train Station | AirTrain (Monorail) | 5-10 min | Included in Train Ticket | Every 3-5 min |
| Airport Station to Newark Penn | NJ Transit Train | 20 min | $8.25 (incl. AirTrain fee) | Every 20-30 min |
| Newark Penn to Seton Hall Gate | NJ Transit Bus #31 | 25-35 min | $1.60 | Every 20-40 min |
| Total (Estimated) | Public Transit Combo | 75-90 min | ~$16.75 | -- |
Luggage Note: While trains have luggage racks, Bus #31 is a standard city bus with limited space for large suitcases. Avoid during peak commuter hours if you have bulky bags.
Option 2: By Shared Shuttle & Direct Bus Services
For a balance between cost and convenience, consider shared shuttle vans or direct bus services to nearby areas.
A. Shared-Ride Shuttle Vans (e.g., GO Airlink NYC / SuperShuttle)
These services provide door-to-door transportation in shared vans. You book a seat in advance, and the van may make stops for other passengers heading to nearby destinations.
- How it Works: Book online via their website or app. After baggage claim, call the provider for your pick-up location.
- Cost: Typically $25 - $40 per person one-way.
- Travel Time: Highly variable (35-70 minutes), depending on the number of stops.
- Best For: Travelers who want door-to-door service without the full cost of a private taxi, and who don't mind a potentially longer ride.
B. Coach USA / Olympia Trails Bus to Newark Penn Station
While there's no bus directly to South Orange, you can take a dedicated airport bus to downtown Newark and then connect to the #31 bus as described above. This can be simpler than the AirTrain+Train for some.
- Service: Olympia Trails Airport Express from EWR to Newark Penn Station.
- Cost & Time: About $17 one-way, 30-45 minute ride depending on traffic.
- Then: Transfer to the NJ Transit #31 bus at the Broad Street Terminal as per the main guide.
Option 3: By Taxi, Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) & Private Car
This is the most direct and convenient, albeit most expensive, option. Itâs highly recommended for groups of 3-4, those with heavy luggage, or arrivals after public transit has stopped.
Taxi (Yellow Cab)
Official taxis are readily available at designated stands outside each terminal. Fares to South Orange are metered, but expect a rough total of $50 - $65, plus tolls (~$2-3) and tip (15-20%). The ride takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)
Follow signs to the designated Rideshare pick-up zones (on the Arrivals level). Prices fluctuate with demand (surge pricing).
- UberX / Lyft Standard: Most common. $40 - $70 one-way.
- Uber Comfort / Lyft Preferred: Slightly newer cars, guaranteed AC. $50 - $85.
- UberXL / Lyft XL: For groups up to 6. $70 - $120+.
Pro Tip: Check both apps for the best price and wait time. Evening arrivals and bad weather often cause the highest surges.
Pre-Booked Private Car Service
For a guaranteed, fixed-price, professional service, book a private sedan or SUV. A driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign.
- Cost: $90 - $150+ one-way, depending on vehicle class.
- Best For: Business travel, special occasions, or families wanting maximum reliability and ease.
Cost & Time Comparison: Newark Airport to Seton Hall University
Use this table to quickly compare your main options based on key decision factors.
| Transport Method | Approx. Door-to-Door Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | 25 - 50 min | $40 - $70+ | Convenience, 1-4 people, door-to-door | Price surges during peak times/weather |
| Taxi (Yellow Cab) | 25 - 50 min | $55 - $75 (inc. tip & tolls) | Immediate availability, fixed-stand pickup | Metered fare, traffic-dependent |
| NJ Transit (Train + Bus #31) | 75 - 90 min | ~$17 | Budget travelers, light luggage | Multiple transfers, not ideal for large bags |
| Shared Shuttle Van | 40 - 70 min | $25 - $40 (per person) | Budget door-to-door, solo travelers | Shared ride, time varies with other drop-offs |
| Private Car Service | 30 - 50 min | $90 - $150+ | Business, luxury, large groups/families | Must book in advance, fixed price |
Verdict: Fastest/Best Overall = Rideshare/Taxi. Cheapest = NJ Transit Combo.
Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Trip
Luggage Strategy
If you have more than one large suitcase per person, seriously reconsider using the #31 bus. The space is very limited. For heavy packers, a taxi/rideshare or private car is worth the cost for sanity. Alternatively, services like Luggage Forward can ship bags directly to your destination ahead of time.
Navigating the Transfer at Newark Penn Station
Newark Penn Station is busy but well-signed. When you get off the train, look for exits to "Broad Street" or "Bus Terminal." The bus terminal is directly adjacent. Allow 5-10 minutes to find the correct bus gate (#31 to South Orange). The NJ Transit app has real-time bus tracking.
Timing & Traffic Warnings
- Rush Hour (Weekdays 7-9 AM, 4-7 PM): Add 20-40 minutes to any road-based journey (taxi, Uber, shuttle). The #31 bus will also be slower and more crowded.
- Late-Night Arrivals: Public transit options thin out significantly after 11 PM and are unreliable after 1 AM. Always have a backup plan (rideshare app ready).
Payment & Apps
- Have the Uber and/or Lyft apps installed and set up before you land.
- Download the NJ Transit app for train/bus schedules, real-time tracking, and mobile ticketing. You can buy your train ticket from the airport station on your phone.
FAQs: Newark Airport to Seton Hall University Transportation
What is the best way to get from Newark Airport to Seton Hall University?
For most travelers with standard luggage, the most convenient and fastest door-to-door option is driving your own car, using a rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or taking a taxi (25-50 minutes, $40-$100+). For a budget-friendly public transit option, the NJ Transit train to Newark Penn Station followed by the 31 bus is reliable (~75-90 minutes total, ~$17).
Is there a direct train from Newark Airport to Seton Hall University?
No, there is no single direct train. You must take the AirTrain from any EWR terminal to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station, then board an NJ Transit Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line train to Newark Penn Station (one stop, 20 min). From there, you transfer to the NJ Transit 31 bus which goes directly to the Seton Hall University main gate.
How much is a taxi or Uber from Newark Airport to Seton Hall?
Fares vary significantly by time of day, demand, and service type. Expect to pay between $40 and $70 for a standard UberX or Lyft. Traditional yellow taxis have a flat rate to South Orange (where Seton Hall is located) of approximately $50-$55, plus tolls and tip. During peak hours or bad weather, surge pricing can push rideshare costs over $100.
What's the cheapest way to get from EWR to Seton Hall University?
The cheapest option is the NJ Transit public transit combination: AirTrain (free to the station) + Train to Newark Penn + 31 Bus. The total one-way cost is approximately $16.75 (Train: $8.25, Bus: $1.60, plus the $7.75 AirTrain access fee included in train ticket). This takes about 75-90 minutes.
How do I handle heavy luggage on public transit?
The train leg from the airport station is manageable as trains have luggage areas. The main challenge is the final bus (31 line), which are standard city buses with limited space for large suitcases, especially during busy times. If you have more than one large bag, strongly consider a taxi/rideshare or a private shuttle service.
Are there any airport shuttles to Seton Hall University?
There are no dedicated public airport shuttles. However, SuperShuttle (GO Airlink NYC) and other shared-ride van services operate from EWR. You can book a door-to-door shared van; prices are typically between a taxi and public transit ($25-$40 per person). You must book in advance via their website or app.
What if my flight arrives very late at night?
After about 1:00 AM, public transit options become extremely limited or stop running. The 31 bus service ends before midnight. Your only reliable options are taxi, Uber/Lyft, or a pre-booked private car service. Always have a backup plan for late-night arrivals.
Is it easy to get an Uber/Lyft at Newark Airport?
Yes, it's very easy. Follow signs for "Rideshare" or "Ground Transportation" in your terminal. Designated pick-up zones are on the Arrivals level. The app will guide you to the specific pick-up post (A1, B1, etc.). Wait times are usually short, but can be longer during peak travel periods.