How to Get from Newark Airport to JFK Airport

Quick Answer

The best overall way to get from Newark (EWR) to JFK is via a combination of NJ Transit train, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and the JFK AirTrain, taking about 75-90 minutes and costing $21-$28. The fastest way (45-75 min) is a taxi or private car, costing $110-$160+. The cheapest way ($11-$15) involves public buses and subways but takes over 2 hours with multiple transfers. The key transfer points are Newark Airport Station, New York Penn Station, and Jamaica Station.

Option 1: Train & AirTrain (The Best Public Transit Route)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. EWR AirTrain to Newark Airport Station: Follow signs to "AirTrain" at any terminal. Take the AirTrain (always free within EWR) to the "Newark Liberty International Airport Station" (not the P4 employee lot). (5-10 mins).
2. NJ Transit or Amtrak to New York Penn Station:
   • NJ Transit: Buy a ticket to "New York Penn Station" ($15.75 one-way). Trains run every 20-30 mins, taking 25-30 minutes. (This is the standard, budget choice).
   • Amtrak: More expensive ($29+), slightly faster, and more comfortable, but schedules are less frequent. Only worthwhile if your timing aligns perfectly with a train.
3. Transfer at NY Penn to LIRR: Inside Penn Station, follow signs for "Long Island Rail Road" (LIRR). You'll need a separate ticket.
   • Buy a ticket to "Jamaica Station" from the kiosks or use OMNY contactless pay at the gates ($7.75 peak / $5.75 off-peak).
   • Take any LIRR train bound for Babylon, Far Rockaway, Hempstead, or Long Beach—all stop at Jamaica. The journey takes 15-20 minutes.
4. Jamaica Station to JFK AirTrain: At Jamaica, exit the LIRR and follow clear overhead signs to the JFK AirTrain.
   • You must pay the AirTrain fee of $8.25. Use a MetroCard (buy/reload at the machine) or credit/debit card.
   • Take the AirTrain to your JFK terminal (approx. 10-15 minutes).

Pro Tips & Deep Analysis

• Why this route wins: It avoids Manhattan street traffic and the often-delayed NYC Subway. The LIRR is a dedicated commuter rail that is faster and more reliable for the cross-town segment.
• The Connection Challenge: Penn Station can be crowded. Allow 10-15 minutes to navigate from your arriving NJ Transit track to the LIRR concourse and find your next train. Use the MTA TrainTime app to check LIRR schedules in real-time.
• Luggage Consideration: All trains and AirTrains have luggage space, but during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM), it can be cramped. Avoid if you have more than one large suitcase per person.
• Cost-Saving Alert: If you are extremely budget-conscious and have time, you can substitute the LIRR with the E Subway from Penn Station (34 St-Penn Station) to Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av (JFK). This saves ~$5 but adds 20-30 minutes and potential subway delays.

Option 2: Shared Shuttle Vans (Door-to-Door Convenience)

Shared shuttle services provide a direct, door-to-door ride in a van, picking up and dropping off multiple passengers going between the NYC area airports.

Total Time: 1.5 to 3+ hours (highly variable)
Total Cost: $35 - $55 per person
Transfers: 0 (but multiple stops)

How It Works & Key Providers

• Booking: Must be pre-booked online in advance. Walk-ups are not guaranteed. Major providers include Go Airlink Shuttle and SuperShuttle (operating in select regions).
• The Process: After claiming bags, you call the provider or check at their desk. You are assigned a van. The van then circles to pick up other passengers from different terminals at EWR before heading to JFK, where it makes several terminal drop-offs.
• Who It's For: Solo travelers or couples who prioritize door-to-door service over speed and are comfortable with an unpredictable schedule.

In-Depth Analysis: The Trade-Offs

Verdict: A viable middle ground between expensive private cars and complex public transit, but only if you have a buffer of at least 4 hours between flights. Not suitable for tight connections.

Option 3: Bus & Subway (The Ultra-Budget Choice)

This is the least expensive method but is the most time-consuming and physically demanding, especially with luggage. It's recommended only for very budget-focused, experienced urban travelers with light bags.

Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Total Cost: $11.00 - $15.00
Transfers: 3+ (Bus to Train to Subway to AirTrain)

The Route (Multiple Variations)

Most Common Path:

1. EWR to Newark Penn Station: Take the NJ Transit #62 or #67 bus from any EWR terminal to Newark Penn Station. Cost: ~$1.60. Time: 20-30 mins.
2. PATH Train to Manhattan: At Newark Penn, take the PATH train (towards World Trade Center or 33rd St). Cost: $2.75. Get off at either:
   • World Trade Center: Transfer to the E Subway (towards Jamaica Center).
   • Journal Square or Grove St: Transfer to the PATH to WTC or switch to other subway lines.
3. NYC Subway to Jamaica: Take the E train (preferable from WTC) all the way to its terminus at Sutphin Blvd–Archer Av (JFK). Cost: $2.90 (using OMNY/MetroCard). Time: ~50-60 mins.
4. JFK AirTrain: As before, transfer to the AirTrain ($8.25) to your terminal.

Critical Considerations & Warnings

• Physical Demanding: Involves stairs, potentially long walks between stations/platforms, and hauling luggage onto crowded buses and subways. Not advisable for elderly travelers, families with young children, or anyone with mobility issues or heavy bags.
• Reliability: Subject to the worst of NYC traffic (bus segment) and potential subway delays or service changes. Check MTA Service Status before embarking.
• The "True" Cost: While the monetary cost is low, the physical and time costs are high. The ~$10 you save compared to the recommended train route may not be worth the significant extra hassle and time for most visitors.
• Alternative Budget Route: From Newark Penn, you can take an NJ Transit train to NY Penn ($5.25) and then switch to the E Subway, which is slightly faster and less hassle than the bus+PATH combination.

Option 4: Taxi, Rideshare & Private Car (Premium Convenience)

This is a direct, door-to-door service with no transfers. It is the simplest but most expensive option, justified by time savings, comfort, or special circumstances.

Total Time: 45 - 75 minutes (highly traffic-dependent)
Total Cost: $110 - $180+ (before tolls & tip)
Transfers: 0

Breakdown of Options

When Does This Option Make Sense?

Consider the premium cost justified if:

• You have a tight connection (less than 4 hours between flights).
• Traveling in a group of 3-4 people (splitting the cost makes it comparable to shuttle fares per person).
• You have a lot of luggage or bulky equipment.
• Arriving or departing between ~11 PM and 5 AM when public transit is infrequent.
• You have mobility challenges or are with small children.
• Your company is paying for it (common for business travelers).

Warning: Traffic on the Belt Parkway near JFK and crossing through Staten Island/Brooklyn can be catastrophic during rush hours. Always allow a minimum of 90 minutes for this car journey, and 2+ hours during peak times.

Cost & Time Comparison: Newark Airport to JFK

This table summarizes all options to help you decide at a glance.

Key Takeaway: For the vast majority of travelers, the Train (NJ Transit + LIRR + AirTrain) combination offers the best overall value. Reserve taxis/private cars for special circumstances only.

Traveler Tips & Real-World Experience

Beyond schedules and fares, here's practical advice from frequent travelers.

Luggage Strategy

• Pack Light for Transit: If using public transit, one carry-on and a personal item per person is manageable. Two large checked bags per person is a struggle.
• Use a Luggage Cart: At EWR, grab a free luggage cart. You can take it all the way to the platform at Newark Airport Station.
• Consider Luggage Storage or Shipping: If you have a long layover and want to explore, use luggage storage at EWR (companies like Bounce) or ship bags ahead to your final destination via services like LugLess or Send My Bag.

Navigating the Hubs

• Penn Station is Massive: Allow time to get oriented. NJ Transit arrives on the lower level; LIRR departs from the new Moynihan Train Hall across 8th Avenue or the renovated West End Concourse. Follow signs carefully.
• Jamaica Station is Efficient: The transfer from LIRR to AirTrain is well-signed and indoors. The ticket machines for the AirTrain fee are right before the AirTrain gates.
• Download Essential Apps:
  • NJ Transit App: For tickets and schedules.
  • MYmta or TrainTime App: For real-time LIRR and subway info.
  • Google Maps or Citymapper: Set to "transit" mode for step-by-step, real-time routing.

Timing & Traffic Warnings

• Rush Hour (Weekdays 7-9 AM, 4-7 PM): Public transit will be crowded. Car/taxi travel times can easily exceed 90 minutes due to traffic on the I-278 Belt Parkway and bridges.
• Weekends & Holidays: Public transit may have schedule changes or construction. Check for service alerts on the MTA website. Traffic can also be heavy on summer weekends.
• International to Domestic Transfer: Remember you must collect all checked bags at EWR (your first US port of entry), clear customs, and re-check them at JFK for your onward domestic flight. This adds significant time (60+ minutes).

FAQs: Newark Airport to JFK Airport