Visitors intending to reach the official site should visit jfkairport.com
Guide to Parking at JFK Airport
Parking at JFK can be one of the most expensive and confusing parts of your trip if you don't plan it. Between construction, sometimes poor signage, and the huge price difference between booking online and paying on the spot, making the right decision is key. This guide, based on the experience of thousands of travelers and updated data, will help you choose the best option for your wallet and your peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parking at JFK
Is it much cheaper to book online?
Yes, the difference is huge. Booking your parking spot in advance through the official JFK website can save you up to 50% compared to the drive-up rate.
I'm picking someone up, where can I wait for free?
Use the Cell Phone Lot. It's a free waiting area located a few minutes from the terminals. You must remain in your vehicle at all times until the passenger notifies you that they are ready to be picked up at the arrivals curb.
I'm traveling for a week, what's the best option?
The Long-Term Parking lot. It is the most economical option for multi-day stays. It is connected to all terminals by the free AirTrain.
Are there reduced rates for people with reduced mobility?
Yes. Vehicles displaying a valid disability placard can park in the accessible spaces of the short-term garages and pay a reduced rate of USD 40.00 for each 24-hour period.
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Cell Phone Parking Lot. Image from Youtube
Critical Points / Traveler's Manual
The Most Expensive Mistake: Not Booking Online
Arriving at JFK's parking lots without a prior reservation is the surest way to pay the maximum price. The rate difference can be USD 20 to 40 per day.
Strategy: Make online booking a non-negotiable part of your travel planning. You can book even just a few hours in advance through the official JFK website to secure a much lower rate.
The Confusion of Signage due to Construction
Due to massive construction projects, road signage to the correct parking lots can be confusing, contradictory, or poorly lit at night, leading drivers to make unnecessary detours.
Strategy: Don't rely solely on airport signs. Use a GPS app (like Google Maps or Waze) and enter the specific garage name (e.g., "JFK Blue Garage") as your final destination for more accurate guidance.
The Hidden Time of Long-Term Parking
Although it is the cheapest option for long trips, you must account for the additional time it requires. You need to park, walk to the AirTrain stop, wait for the train, and then travel to your terminal.
Strategy: Add at least 30-45 extra minutes to your travel planning if you use the long-term parking lot. This time is crucial to avoid rushing to the check-in counter.
The Limited Supply of Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging
Although charging points exist, they are very scarce for an airport the size of JFK. Chargers are mainly found in the Yellow Garage (T5) and the Cell Phone Lot, and are often occupied.
Strategy: Don't count on being able to charge your electric vehicle at the airport. It's much more reliable to arrive with enough charge for your return trip or to have fast-charging stations located outside the airport grounds.
Free Waiting Areas
Cell Phone Lot
- ✅ This is the ideal option for waiting for arriving passengers, at no cost.
- ⚠️ You must always remain with your vehicle; leaving it unattended is not allowed.
- ⚡ It has 10 charging points for electric vehicles.
Free Wait Lot
- ✅ Located on Lefferts Blvd, it is perfect for quickly dropping off or picking up passengers.
- 🚆 It has a direct and free connection to the AirTrain for passengers to reach the terminals.
- User Experience: It's practical, but not recommended if passengers have a lot of luggage or reduced mobility, as it requires a transfer with the AirTrain.
Short-Term Parking (Terminal Garages)
These are the most convenient option for stays of a few hours or if proximity to the terminal is your top priority.
- Red Garage: Terminal 8.
- Blue Garage: Terminal 4.
- Yellow Garage: Terminal 5 (with EV charging stations).
- Orange Garage: Terminal 7 (Closed for construction).
Approximate Rates (subject to change):
- Half hour: USD 4.00 - 6.00
- 24h max (drive-up): USD 80.00 - 100.00
- 24h max (with online booking): USD 60.00 - 75.00
User Experience: Booking online is crucial to save a significant amount of money. During peak hours, access can be slow, and lines may form to enter.
Federal Circle Station Lot (Reservation Only)
- 💻 Requires online reservation at least 24 hours in advance.
- ✅ Offers lower rates than the terminal garages: USD 55.00 for 24h, and then USD 27.50 for each additional 12h.
- ⚠️ It is not next to the terminals; you need to take the (free) AirTrain to get to your flight.
Long-Term Parking
This is the most economical solution if you plan to leave your car for several days or weeks.
- 📍 Located near Lefferts Boulevard, with a direct connection to the AirTrain (Howard Beach Line).
- Approximate Rates (subject to change):
- With online booking: USD 35.00 for the first 24 hours, then USD 17.50 for each 12-hour block.
- Without reservation: The rate is considerably higher.
User Experience: It is the preferred option for its price on long trips, but it is essential to calculate the extra time (minimum 30 min) needed for the AirTrain transfer to the terminal.
Parking for People with Reduced Mobility
There are reserved spaces in the short-term parking lots, near the terminal entrances.
- ✅ Requires displaying a valid disability credential.
- 💰 Special reduced rate: A maximum of USD 40.00 for each 24-hour period.
User Experience: Although the rate is a great advantage, the spaces are limited, and it's not always easy to find staff who can guide you to their exact location.
Off-Site Parking
Several private companies in the surrounding area offer lower rates, including a free shuttle service to your terminal.
- SmartPark JFK: Highly rated for the speed and reliability of its shuttle service.
- Bolt Parking: Economical option, although some users report that the shuttle can be slower.
- AirPark JFK: Known for its efficient online booking system and good availability.
Practical Information
Accepted Payment Methods
- Credit and debit cards.
- Contactless payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay.
- E-ZPass Plus.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
- 5 chargers on Level 2 of the Yellow Garage (T5).
- 10 charging points in the Cell Phone Lot.
Final Recommendations
- Always book online: This is the number one rule to save money. Make your reservation on the official JFK website as soon as you know your travel dates.
- For dropping off or picking someone up: Don't overcomplicate or overpay. Always use the Cell Phone Lot to wait for free and safely.
- Calculate your total time: Don't forget to add the walking time from your parking spot and the possible AirTrain ride to your airport arrival time.
- Take a photo of your spot: After a long trip, it's easy to forget where you left the car. A photo of the spot number and level will save you a lot of time and stress upon your return.