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Getting from JFK Airport to Penn Station

From JFK Airport to Penn Station, there’s an approximate distance of just under 27 km. When traveling from JFK to Penn Station, you’ll have your pick of four transport options: taxi, subway, train, or private transfer.

If you choose a JFK Airport taxi, you’ll enjoy private, door-to-door service. For added comfort and convenience, you can opt for a private transfer. With either of these options, the ride can take upwards of 45 minutes. The fastest option is to catch the Long Island Railroad train, which takes less than 40 minutes, while the most inexpensive alternative is the subway, with a total travel duration of around 55 minutes.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to New York at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY Action
Taxi €59.70 45min 24/7
Subway €19.60 55min 24/7
Train €28.60 35min 24/7
Welcome Airport Transfer €114 45min 24/7

How to get a taxi from JFK to Penn Station

Hopping into a JFK Airport taxi is among the best ways to travel if you’re looking for a direct, private ride to Penn Station. A taxi from JFK to Penn Station usually takes around 45 minutes, but the traffic can add quite a lot of time to your journey.

Cabs are available 24/7 from the outside of each of the terminal buildings, and official taxis are easy to spot thanks to their signature yellow exterior and ‘TAXI’ sign on the roof.

What is the taxi fare from JFK to Penn Station?

Drivers generally use meters to calculate taxi fares in New York, but there’s a flat fare of $70 (€59.70) for rides from JFK Airport to Penn Station. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be an additional fee for any tolls your driver passes through, which will be added to your total. If your ride falls between 16:00 and 20:00 from Monday to Friday, you’ll also be required to pay a surcharge of $5 (€4.30).

Cost

$70 (€59.70)

Trip Duration

45 Min.

Waiting times can vary depending on the time of day.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 from John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK).

Where do I get a taxi from?

Each terminal at JFK Airport has a dedicated taxi rank. Simply follow the signage in the Arrivals Hall and join the queue until a cab becomes available.

Convenience

Taking a taxi from JFK to Penn Station is a reliable option for travelers, as drivers serve the ranks at each terminal 24/7. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the added comfort of a private, door-to-door ride. Unfortunately, lengthy queues are commonplace at JFK Airport, so you should be prepared to wait for a cab if you choose this option.

Editor’s Note

Ideal for travelers hoping to keep their plans flexible.

Useful Tips

For good service, a 20% tip is standard.
If an attendant assists you at the taxi rank, it's expected that you give them a small tip for this service.
Make sure you ask your driver for a receipt at the end of the ride.
Only accept rides from drivers at the rank rather than from those approaching you in the Arrivals Hall.

How to get from JFK to Penn Station by subway

Taking the subway from JFK to Penn Station is a popular option among budget-conscious travelers. It’s relatively inexpensive, though the service isn’t direct.

First, you’ll need to catch the AirTrain, which serves every terminal, to Jamaica Station. From here, you’ll take the E Line toward the World Trade Center until you reach the stop called ’34 St. – Penn Station.’ While waiting times vary, it tends to take around 55 minutes to reach Penn Station with this option.

How much is the subway from JFK Airport to Penn Station?

The total cost of taking the AirTrain and Subway to Penn Station is $11.40 (€9.80). This includes a fee of $8.50 (€7.30) to get to Jamaica Station and a further $2.90 (€2.50) for the second leg of the journey.

Both the AirTrain and Subway can be paid for using contactless payment. You’ll pay for the AirTrain as you disembark at Jamaica Station and the Subway before arriving at the platform for the E Line.

Cost

$11.40 (€9.80)

Trip Duration

55 Min.

The AirTrain runs every 2-3 minutes during peak hours and every 4-10 minutes during off-peak hours. Subway Line E departs approximately every 5-10 minutes, though waiting times can be slightly longer during quieter hours.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Both the JFK AirTrain and Subway Line E operate 24/7.

Where do I get the subway from?

When you’re in the Arrivals Hall, you’ll need to follow the signs directing you to the AirTrain. Check the monitors inside the airport to find the specific platform for the Jamaica Station train. Once here, you’ll need to use the signage in the station guiding you to the E Line service in the direction of the World Trade Center.

Convenience

The AirTrain and Subway systems are fast and dependable, making this a good option for those looking for economical transportation from JFK Airport to Penn Station. That said, the service isn’t direct, and dragging your bags on and off carriages may be inconvenient if you’re carrying heavy luggage.

Editor’s Note

Recommended for budget travelers with minimal baggage.

Useful Tips

Consider downloading the MTA app before you arrive to see real-time updates.
If you're planning to utilize public transport throughout your stay, you might prefer to purchase a rechargeable MetroCard, which is available at terminals 1, 4, 7, and 8 for $1 ($0.90).
Another option is to download an OMNY card onto your smart device, which has a weekly cap on fares.
Keep in mind that most stations are not fully wheelchair accessible.

How to get from JFK to Penn Station by train

Hopping on the train from JKF to Penn Station is another affordable transport option. You’ll first need to take the AirTrain from any terminal to Jamaica Station, where you’ll switch to the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) service to Penn Station. This is typically the fastest way to travel, normally taking just 35 minutes in total, including the AirTrain and LIRR.

How much is the train from JFK Airport to Penn Station?

The specific cost of the train from JFK to the Penn Station will vary depending on the time of day. No matter when you travel, the AirTrain will set you back $8.50 (€7.30), but the LIRR train will cost you $8.25 (€7) during off-peak hours or $11.25 (€9.60) midweek from 06:00 to 10:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00. Provided you take the train outside of these hours, your total will come to $16.75 (€14.30).

You can use contactless payment to pay for your AirTrain ticket when you disembark at Jamaica Station. LIRR tickets are available from vending machines inside the station or on the TrainTime app.

Cost

$16.75 (€14.30)

Trip Duration

35 Min.

The AirTrain runs every 2-3 minutes during peak hours and every 4-10 minutes during off-peak hours, while the LIRR departs roughly every 5 minutes.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The JFK AirTrain JFK and LIRR trains operate 24/7.

Where do I get the train from?

The AirTrain serves every terminal at JFK Airport, meaning you simply need to follow the signs guiding you to the departure point and check the monitors to find the platform for the Jamaica Station service. Once you’ve arrived here, look out for the signs pointing you toward the platform for the LIRR train heading toward Penn Station.

Convenience

Although it involves making a change along the way, getting from JFK to Penn Station by train is a worthwhile option for those who aren’t carrying a lot of luggage or traveling with children. It’s more expensive than taking the subway, but it’s still quite budget-friendly and is also the most timely way to get to Penn Station.

Editor’s Note

Perfect for passengers in a time crunch and those traveling light.

Useful Tips

Your ticket may be subject to inspection while onboard the train.
If you purchase a ticket using the TrainTime app, ensure you have sufficient battery for the duration of the journey.
You can purchase multiple tickets on one device.
Ensure you activate your ticket before the journey if you purchased it using the app.

How to get a private JFK to Penn Station transfer

Private JFK to Penn Station transfers are the most convenient options for those who want a seamless experience. Well-regarded providers, such as Welcome Pickups, offer direct, customizable private transfers, which include a slew of added perks, including:

  • Guaranteed, on-time pickups
  • Fixed, competitive prices
  • Personalized meet and greets
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Flexible cancelation

By arranging your transport in advance, you’ll leave nothing up to chance on the day. Instead of stressing, you’ll hop straight into a waiting vehicle and enjoy a relaxed ride to your hotel.

How much is a private JFK to Penn Station transfer?

The price of your JFK to Penn Station shuttle will depend on the type of vehicle you travel in, but the fare you’re quoted at the time of booking is fixed, free from hidden extras, and won’t be subject to change. Better still, you can pay ahead of time, cutting out the hassle of handling payments on the day.

One of our stylish sedans will set you back $113.60 (€114) for as many as four passengers, while a minivan for up to eight people will cost you $135 (€115.20), and a larger vehicle for up to 12 travelers will come to $285 (€243.10).

It takes just a few minutes to make your reservation using our app or website. All you need to do is enter your details, get your quote, and pay securely. After you’ve paid, your transfer will be confirmed.

Cost

$113.60 (€114)

Trip Duration

45 Min.

Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK).

Where do I get a private transfer from?

You won’t even have to leave the terminal to meet your driver for your JFK Airport to Penn Station shuttle, as they’ll be waiting for you in the relevant Arrivals Hall. They’ll be holding a sign with your name on it, waiting to welcome you to the city. Once you’ve gotten acquainted, they’ll help you with your bags and show you to your pre-selected vehicle in the parking lot.

Should you get delayed, you won’t need to fret. Our flight monitoring service will ensure your driver is kept in the loop about your flight’s expected arrival time.

Convenience

Private transfers from JFK to Penn Station offer the most convenience of any transport option. Services are direct, private, and comfortable, and extras like meet and greets, fixed prices, and on-time pickups take the stress out of your arrival. Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy a mini tour of the city with a knowledgeable driver along the way.

Editor’s Note

Perfect for business travelers, families, and large groups.

Useful Tips

We suggest choosing a pickup time that's no less than 20-30 minutes after your flight is due to land, giving you ample time to pass through immigration and collect your bags.
Add extras like baby or child seats to your reservation at the time of booking.
If you wish to add a tip, you may do so using our app after the trip is complete.
Before your flight, you'll get an email from us with your driver's name, contact details, and a recent photo.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in New york. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Read more

Prices

DAYTIME
€114
NIGHTTIME
€114
Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How much is the train ticket from JFK to Penn Station?

The cost of a ticket for the train from JFK to Penn Station will depend on the time of day. Although the AirTrain will cost you $8.50 (€7.30) regardless of when you travel, LIRR tickets will cost $8.25 (€7) during off-peak hours or $11.25 (€9.60) during peak hours. As such, you’ll pay between $16.75 (€14.30) and $19.75 (€16.90).

Does the AirTrain at JFK go to Penn Station?

The AirTrain doesn’t go to Penn Station. You’ll be required to first take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, where you’ll switch to the LIRR train or Subway Line E to reach Penn Station.

What is the easiest way to get from Penn Station to JFK Airport?

Taking a private transfer or taxi from JFK to Penn Station is the most convenient way to travel. However, the train is typically the fastest option, while the subway is the cheapest.

How much is a taxi from Penn Station to JFK?

The cost of a taxi from JFK to Penn Station is fixed, and provided you’re traveling outside of peak hours, this trip will cost you $70 (€59.70).

How long is the taxi ride from JFK to Penn Station?

On average, a taxi from JFK to Penn Station will take 45 minutes. However, the traffic can have a significant impact on the total travel time, so it may be shorter or longer depending on the time of day.

Adam Ryan

Adam is a travel writer with a soft spot for strange borders, street foods he can’t pronounce, and sleeper trains. He’s aiming to visit every country in the world, but somehow keeps ending up back in Southeast Asia.

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