How to Get from JFK Airport by Subway and Train (LIRR)

Once you leave the terminal, your first big decision is how to get to the heart of New York. The public transportation system, accessible via the AirTrain, offers you two main options: the budget-friendly Subway or the fast commuter train (LIRR). The right choice depends on your budget, your final destination, and how much you value comfort over cost. This guide will help you make the best decision and navigate the system like a true New Yorker.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Subway and LIRR from JFK

  • What is the cheapest way to get to Manhattan?

    The Subway. The total cost is USD 11.40 (USD 8.50 for the AirTrain + USD 2.90 for the Subway). It is by far the most economical option.

  • And the fastest?

    The LIRR (Long Island Rail Road). From Jamaica station, the journey to Penn Station or Grand Central in Manhattan takes only about 20-25 minutes, compared to 50-60 minutes on the subway.

  • How do I pay for the trip?

    The easiest way is to use OMNY (contactless payment). Simply tap your credit/debit card or your phone on the readers for the AirTrain and then the subway. You don't need to buy a physical card.

  • Is it complicated to travel with a lot of luggage?

    On the subway, yes. Especially on the E Line during peak hours, the cars are packed and space is minimal. The LIRR is much more comfortable and spacious for traveling with suitcases.

JFK airport subway

Photo by Hans Isaacson Unsplash

Critical Points / Traveler's Manual

  • The Central Dilemma: Subway vs. LIRR

    The choice between the Subway and the LIRR is a balance of cost, time, and comfort. The Subway is cheap but slow and can be overwhelming with luggage. The LIRR is fast, comfortable, and spacious, but costs almost twice as much.

    Strategy: If you are traveling alone or with light luggage and are on a tight budget, the Subway is a great option. If you are traveling with family, a lot of luggage, or simply want to start your trip stress-free, the extra cost of the LIRR is more than justified.

  • The Luggage Challenge on the Subway

    Navigating the New York City subway with large suitcases is an unpleasant rite of passage. You will face crowded cars, narrow corridors, and often, flights of stairs with no mechanical alternative.

    Strategy: If you opt for the subway, try to travel outside of peak hours (7:00-10:00 AM and 4:00-8:00 PM). The A line from Howard Beach is usually less crowded than the E line from Jamaica, which can make the journey a bit easier.

  • Simplify Your Payment: Embrace OMNY

    The machines for buying or refilling MetroCards can be confusing and have long lines, especially at Jamaica station. Additionally, the physical card has an initial cost.

    Strategy: Use OMNY. It's the MTA's contactless payment system. Simply tap your credit or debit card, or your phone with mobile payment, on the turnstile reader. It's fast, easy, and you save the dollar for the card.

  • Navigating Jamaica Station

    Jamaica station is a major transportation hub and can be chaotic. It's a hotspot for touts trying to sell you unsolicited taxi services, often with misleading information.

    Strategy: When you exit the AirTrain, ignore anyone who approaches you. Follow the official signs to the "LIRR" (train) or "Subway." Only trust uniformed MTA or LIRR staff if you have questions.

Fares and Payment Methods

The total cost of your trip is the sum of the AirTrain fare plus the Subway or LIRR fare.

  • AirTrain Fare: USD 8.50 (to enter/exit at Jamaica or Howard Beach).
  • Subway Fare: USD 2.90 per ride.
  • Total cost AirTrain + Subway: USD 11.40.
  • LIRR Fare: Varies by destination and time. To Penn Station or Grand Central, it costs approximately USD 13.00 (off-peak) or USD 19.00 (peak).

Payment Tip: The easiest way is to use OMNY. If your stay is 4 days or more, consider buying a 7-day unlimited subway pass (USD 34.00), which will give you the freedom to move around the city. Children under 44 inches (112 cm) ride free when accompanied by an adult.

Connection Options and Destinations

Option 1: The Subway

The AirTrain connects you to the subway at two different stations, each with its own advantages.

E Line (from Jamaica Station) – The most direct route to Midtown

  • Main route: Takes you directly to the heart of Manhattan, with key stops like Port Authority (near Times Square) and World Trade Center.
  • Duration: About 50 minutes to Midtown.
  • Ideal if: Your destination is in central Manhattan and you prioritize the most direct subway route.
  • Keep in mind: This is the most used line by airport travelers, so it is often very crowded with little room for luggage.

J/Z Lines (from Jamaica Station) – Alternative for Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan

  • Main route: Traverses Brooklyn neighborhoods like Williamsburg before reaching Lower Manhattan.
  • Ideal if: You are staying in those areas of Brooklyn or your final destination is near Wall Street.
  • Keep in mind: It is not the best option to get to Midtown, and its service can be less frequent, especially on weekends.

A Line (from Howard Beach Station) – The most spacious route

  • Main route: Goes up through Brooklyn and crosses Manhattan from south to north on the west side.
  • Duration: This is the longest subway route, approximately 60-70 minutes to Midtown.
  • Ideal if: You have a lot of luggage and prefer a potentially quieter trip with a better chance of finding a seat.
  • Keep in mind: The journey is noticeably longer, and the frequency of trains can be lower, especially at night.

Option 2: The Commuter Train (LIRR)

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the premium option for leaving JFK. You connect with it at Jamaica station.

  • Faster: This is the main advantage. You will be in central Manhattan in just 20-25 minutes.
  • More comfortable: The trains are designed for commuters, with wider seats, more space for luggage, and a generally calmer atmosphere.
  • Excellent connections: It reaches the two main stations in Manhattan, Penn Station (west side) and Grand Central Madison (east side), as well as the Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn.
  • More expensive: The price is its only real disadvantage, being significantly higher than the subway.

Quick Comparison: Subway or LIRR?

👉 Scroll right to move the table
OptionDuration to MidtownTotal Cost (Approx.)Ideal For
Subway (E Line)~50 minUSD 11.40Tight budget, light luggage.
Subway (A Line)~65 minUSD 11.40Travelers with luggage looking to save money.
LIRR (to Penn/Grand Central)~25 minUSD 21.50 - 27.50Prioritizing speed, comfort, and traveling with suitcases.

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