Taking the subway from JFK Airport to Manhattan is by far the most economical option available. It’s reliable, relatively straightforward, and avoids the unpredictable traffic that often plagues taxis and rideshares.
But figuring out how to navigate from any terminal at JFK to the subway can be overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. The airport is huge, signage can be confusing, and online information is often incomplete. That’s where we come in.
I tend to be an obsessive planner (Note from Sharon: No, really? Tell me about it…), so I wanted clear, step-by-step directions. I found lots of people saying, “You can take the subway,” but not many explained how. So here’s our updated 2025 guide to navigating this route.
Using the JFK AirTrain
After deplaning (and claiming any checked luggage), follow the signs to “AirTrain.” At T5, this is after a long walk on the SkyWalk. The path from each terminal is different, but the AirTrain is usually well indicated.
You’ll then arrive at the AirTrain. All terminals connect to it. When boarding the AirTrain, get on the one going to the correct station.
The Jamaica Train (red line) goes to Jamaica Station, and the Howard Beach Train (green line) goes to Howard Beach Station. If you get on the wrong train, you’ll have to backtrack at Federal Circle Station.
Paying for the AirTrain and Subway
The AirTrain ride within the airport is free, but to exit at Jamaica Station or Howard Beach, you must pay $8.50 (2025 rate). You can tap a credit/debit card or phone with OMNY, or swipe a MetroCard.
From there, transfer to the subway ($2.90 per ride in 2025). OMNY is now fully operational, making the process quicker. MetroCards are still accepted but are being phased out.
The rest of the post shows examples of how to get to Midtown Manhattan via the E train from Jamaica Station.
Connecting to the Subway
At Jamaica Station, after going through the turnstiles, most signs will direct you downstairs via escalator or elevator, which leads you outside onto the sidewalk and then to the subway entrance. Alternatively, you can walk along the train station platform to the far end, where there are elevators that will take you directly to the same place without needing to exit to the street.
You’ll pass the LIRR train station and get to an elevator to head downstairs. From there, you have to go down one more escalator to get to the subway station.
From here, follow the signs to the E train headed to Manhattan. The last stop on the line is the World Trade Center, so you may see signs for a train headed in that direction. That’s the one you want.
The trip takes about 35–40 minutes from Jamaica to Midtown.
Alternative Option: LIRR
If you want a faster and more comfortable ride (especially with luggage), take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Jamaica to Grand Central Madison or Penn Station. Expect to pay $8–$12, depending on the time of day.
Comparison to Taxi, Uber, or Lyft
Taxis at JFK Airport charge a flat fare of $70 for trips between the airport and Manhattan. Taxis impose a $5.00 surcharge during peak hours (4-8 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays), for a fare of $75.00.
There is also a New York State tax of 50 cents added to trips within New York, but not for trips to New Jersey.
Plus New York State Congestion Surcharge of $2.50 (Yellow Taxi) or $2.75 (Green Taxi and FHV) or 75 cents (any shared ride) for all trips that begin, end, or pass through Manhattan south of 96th Street.
An Uber or Lyft can range from $85–$130+, depending on demand and car size. Additionally, Uber now offers a shared shuttle service from Manhattan and Brooklyn to JFK, which can be a budget-friendly alternative if you don’t mind sharing a ride with other travelers.
Final Thoughts
We’re big believers in using public transportation when visiting large cities. At JFK, it’s easy to connect to the AirTrain and subway. While a taxi or rideshare might be faster door-to-door, you’ll avoid unpredictable traffic delays and save money by taking the train.
If you prefer a faster, more premium experience without breaking the bank, you can also take the LIRR to Penn Station or Grand Central Station for a little extra. Either way, getting from JFK to Manhattan in 2025 is easier and more convenient than ever.
Want to comment on this post? Great! Read this first to help ensure it gets approved.
Want to sponsor a post, write something for Your Mileage May Vary, or put ads on our site? Click here for more info.
Like this post? Please share it! We have plenty more just like it and would love it if you decided to hang around and sign up to get emailed notifications of when we post.
Whether you’ve read our articles before or this is the first time you’re stopping by, we’re really glad you’re here and hope you come back to visit again!
This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.