How to Get to Times Square from JFK Airport [2025–2026 Guide] ✈️🚖🗽
Notable bus services from JFK to Times Square include the NYC Airporter, SuperShuttle, and Express Shuttle. The estimated travel time by bus is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with prices ranging from $18 to $20.
🗽 Why Travelers Ask This Route
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the busiest airports in the U.S. and the main entry point for travelers heading to New York City. Times Square, located in Midtown Manhattan, is about 16 miles away. Depending on your budget, luggage, and schedule, you have several good options to reach Times Square.
🚈 Option 1: AirTrain + Subway (Most Affordable)
The AirTrain JFK connects all airport terminals to the New York City subway system.
- Step 1: Take the AirTrain from your terminal to Jamaica Station.
- Step 2: Transfer to the E subway line toward Manhattan.
- Step 3: Get off at 42nd Street–Port Authority/Times Square Station.
- Travel Time: 60–75 minutes.
- Cost: $8.50 (AirTrain) + $2.90 (subway) = $11.40 total.
👉 Best for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind handling luggage on public transit.
🚆 Option 2: AirTrain + LIRR (Faster Alternative)
If you want a faster option than the subway, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
- Step 1: From your terminal, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station.
- Step 2: Board the LIRR train to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan.
- Step 3: Walk 10 minutes or take the 1, 2, or 3 subway one stop to Times Square.
- Travel Time: 40–50 minutes.
- Cost: $8.50 (AirTrain) + $7–$10 (LIRR, off-peak/peak) = $15.50–$18.50 total.
👉 Best for those who want a quicker ride with fewer stops.
🚖 Option 3: Yellow Taxi (Flat Fare)
Taxis from JFK operate on a flat fare system to Manhattan.
- Flat Fare: $70 (plus tolls & tip).
- Travel Time: 45–90 minutes (depending on traffic).
- Arrival: Direct to your hotel in Times Square.
👉 Perfect if you have heavy luggage or want a door-to-door service without transfers.
🚙 Option 4: Uber or Lyft (Flexible but Variable)
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are available at JFK.
- Cost: $65–$90 depending on time of day, demand, and traffic.
- Travel Time: 45–90 minutes.
👉 Best if you prefer app-based booking and want to compare pricing with taxis.
🚌 Option 5: Shuttle Bus Services
Several shuttle services run between JFK and Midtown Manhattan.
- Providers: Go Airlink NYC, NYC Express Bus.
- Drop-off: Major hotels around Times Square.
- Travel Time: 60–90 minutes (with multiple stops).
- Cost: $20–$40 per person.
👉 Good for solo travelers looking for a middle-ground option.
🚐 Option 6: Private Car or Limousine
Luxury travelers can book a private transfer.
- Travel Time: 45–75 minutes.
- Cost: $120–$200+.
- Best For: Families, business travelers, or those seeking comfort.
👉 This is the most comfortable and private way to get from JFK to Times Square.
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Duration | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚈 AirTrain + Subway | 60–75 min | $11.40 | Budget travelers |
| 🚆 AirTrain + LIRR | 40–50 min | $15.50–$18.50 | Faster, fewer stops |
| 🚖 Yellow Taxi | 45–90 min | $70 + tolls/tip | Luggage & convenience |
| 🚙 Uber/Lyft | 45–90 min | $65–$90 | App-based riders |
| 🚌 Shuttle Bus | 60–90 min | $20–$40 | Solo tourists |
| 🚐 Private Car | 45–75 min | $120–$200+ | Luxury & groups |
🕒 Best Time to Travel from JFK to Times Square
- Morning Rush (7–10 AM): Heavier traffic on taxis/rideshares, subways are crowded.
- Midday (10 AM–4 PM): Smoothest time to travel.
- Evening Rush (4–7 PM): Traffic jams are common—subways are faster.
- Late Night (10 PM–5 AM): Taxi, Uber, or Lyft are best since trains run less frequently.
❓ FAQs About Getting from JFK Airport to Times Square
Q1: What’s the cheapest way to get from JFK to Times Square?
The AirTrain + Subway option at $11.40 total is the cheapest.
Q2: What’s the fastest way from JFK to Times Square?
The AirTrain + LIRR to Penn Station is typically the fastest, taking 40–50 minutes.
Q3: Is there a flat taxi fare from JFK to Manhattan?
Yes, yellow taxis charge a $70 flat rate (plus tolls and tip).
Q4: Can I take a direct subway from JFK to Times Square?
Not directly—you must take the AirTrain first to Jamaica Station, then transfer to the E subway.
Q5: Is Uber cheaper than a taxi from JFK?
It depends—sometimes Uber/Lyft are slightly cheaper, but during peak hours, taxis can be the better option with the flat fare.
✅ Whether you want the budget-friendly subway, the faster LIRR, or the convenience of a taxi or rideshare, reaching Times Square from JFK Airport in 2025–2026 is straightforward with options for every traveler.