Step-by-step guide to reaching JFK Airport by subway and AirTrain — the cheapest option from Manhattan at $11.40 total, with route options, journey times, and terminal tips.
At a Glance
How to Get from John F. Kennedy International Airport to the City
The New York City Subway is the fastest public transport option for getting between New York city and the airport area. The A Train and E Train and J Train and Z Train connect the nearest metro station to the city centre.
Travel Tips
- Buy your AirTrain ticket at Jamaica or Howard Beach station — you pay on exit, not entry.
- The E train from Midtown to Jamaica is faster than the A train to Howard Beach for most Manhattan origins.
- OMNY tap works for the subway portion; AirTrain is a separate $8.50 fare paid at exit turnstiles.
- Allow at least 90 minutes before departure — journey times vary and trains can be delayed.
- The AirTrain runs every 7–8 minutes between terminals and operates 24 hours.
- For Terminal 4 (Delta, international arrivals): board at any terminal stop and ride to T4 — no extra charge.
Paying for the Journey
Payment methods: OMNY (contactless Visa/Mastercard/Amex/phone) · MetroCard (being phased out) · 7-day Unlimited MetroCard · 30-day Unlimited MetroCard.
💡 OMNY auto-caps at 12 rides per week (Mon–Sun) — all further rides that week are free. Tap your contactless card or phone; no MetroCard needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get to JFK from Manhattan?
Subway + AirTrain is the cheapest option at $11.40 total ($2.90 subway + $8.50 AirTrain). Take the E, J, or Z to Jamaica station or the A train to Howard Beach, then board the AirTrain to your terminal.
How long does the subway take to JFK Airport?
From Midtown Manhattan: about 60–75 minutes via the A train to Howard Beach, or 50–65 minutes via the E/J/Z to Jamaica. Allow 90 minutes to be safe, especially during rush hours or late night.
How do I pay for the AirTrain at JFK?
AirTrain is free between terminals. You only pay the $8.50 fare when exiting to Jamaica station or Howard Beach (subway connections). Pay at the exit turnstile with MetroCard, OMNY contactless, or credit card.
Does the AirTrain run 24 hours?
Yes — AirTrain JFK operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, running every 7–8 minutes during peak hours and every 12 minutes overnight.
See also: New York City Subway ticket prices · Payment card guide · Full New York City Subway guide
Source: Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Journey times and fares are indicative — verify before travel.