Top Transfer Options: JFK to Grand Central

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the busiest and largest airports in the United States, and one of three major airports in New York State. The distance from JFK Airport to Grand Central Station in Midtown Manhattan is 25 kilometers (15 miles). Considered the gateway to New York, you have three transport options from JFK Airport to Grand Central; taxi, train, or private transfer.

Taking a JFK Airport taxi is the most comfortable and convenient transfer option, with a journey time of up to 1 hour. Other than a taxi, a JFK Airport transfer also provides a direct and door-to-door transport option for a guaranteed fixed fare rate.

If you’re on a budget, the train is a cheaper alternative, although you will need to make at least one transfer before reaching Grand Central. You can expect a travel time of 1 hour, including wait and transfer times.

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 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€68	30min	24/7
AirTrain + LIRR	€33.5	60min	24/7
Welcome Airport Transfer	€99	30min	24/7

How to get from JFK to Grand Central by taxi

The taxis at JFK provide the quickest and most convenient transfer option from JFK to Grand Central Station. The journey time in a JFK Airport taxi from JFK to Grand Central will be between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the time of day and traffic levels. Regular yellow taxis seat up to four passengers, or five if you take a minivan. Since Grand Central is located in Manhattan, you should be charged a flat rate fee rather than a metered rate.

How much is a taxi from JFK to Grand Central Station?

While regular New York taxis charge by the meter, from JFK to Grand Central the taxi fare will be fixed at $70 (€68). This price applies to all destinations in Manhattan but does not include toll costs or a tip, which should be added at the end of your trip.

An airport access surcharge of $1.75 (€1.70) PANYNJ will also apply, and you may need to pay a New York State congestion surcharge of $2.50 (€2.40). For a flat rate fee inclusive of all charges with no hidden fees, you can pre-book your JFK Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.

Cost

$70 (€68)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*During increased traffic the journey can take up to 1 hour.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24 hours a day from JFK Airport.

Where do I find a taxi at JFK Airport?

Taxis are located outside of all terminals at JFK Airport. As you exit the main building, you will see a line of taxi cabs waiting in front of you. A taxi dispatcher wearing official credentials should also be assisting passengers into the next available vehicle.

Convenience

The most direct and hassle-free way to get from JFK to Grand Central is to take a taxi. You can relax the entire way, knowing your loved ones and personal belongings are safe and secure. Plus, your private car will drop you off directly at the door of your hotel.

Editor’s Note

Taxis are a good option for anyone wanting convenient service who hasn't booked a ride in advance.

Useful Tips

Some JFK taxi drivers accept card payments, but not all. Tipping your driver around 15-20% is customary.

If you leave any belongings behind in the taxi, you can call 311.

A peak hour surcharge of $5 (€4.80) will be added on weekdays between 16:00 and 20:00.

Decline anyone approaching you inside the terminal offering a ride. These are typically unauthorized taxi drivers and companies.

If you're traveling solo or in a small group, taking the subway during peak hours can be just as quick for a fraction of the price.

How to get from JFK to Grand Central Station by train

A cheaper alternative to a taxi is to travel from JFK to Grand Central by train. Since there isn’t a direct option, your trip will need to be broken into two parts. First up, you will need to take the AirTrain Red Jamaica Line to Jamaica Station, which takes between 8 and 13 minutes, depending on which terminal you depart from.

From there, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) through to Grand Central Station, which takes a further 20 minutes with no stops, bringing the total journey time to roughly 30 minutes, not including wait and transfer times.

*It’s also possible to transfer to the subway (Line E) at Jamaica Station, however, this route requires an additional transfer to Subway Line 6 at Lexington Avenue.

How much is the train from JFK to Grand Central?

The cost of a single ticket on the AirTrain is $8.50 (€8.30) and the cost of the subway is $8.25 (€8), bringing the total price to $16.75 (€16.30). You can either pay for your ticket by tapping on and off with a credit or debit card at the card reader, or you can purchase and top up a rechargeable Metrocard, which has a one-off fee of $1 (€1).

Cost

$16.75 (€16.30)

Trip Duration

60 Min.

*There's a wait time of 15 minutes for the AirTrain and of 3 to 15 minutes for the LIRR.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The AirTrain and LIRR both run 24 hours a day.

Where do I find the train at JFK Airport?

The AirTrain leaves from all terminals at JFK Airport. The AirTrain will be clearly marked from the moment you exit the Baggage Claim area and can be found underground via stairs, escalators, and an elevator.

Convenience

Since there isn’t a JFK to Grand Central shuttle bus, your only public transfer option is the train. Although this is by far the cheapest mode of transport, it’s also the least convenient. You will need to make a change from the AirTrain to the rail system and navigate your way through busy subway stations with your luggage. During peak travel times, you may also have to stand for the majority of your transfer as seats will be limited.

Timetables

AirTrain

JFK Airport – Jamaica Station

LIRR Timetable

Jamaica Station – Grand Central Station

Editor’s Note

If you're not familiar with train networks in a large city, you may find this option a little overwhelming, especially considering the size of Grand Central Station. First-time visitors will find a taxi or airport transfer much more relaxing.

Useful Tips

It's very important to be aware of pickpockets while riding the New York Subway. Keep all personal belongings close to you and try not to leave your phone or wallet in your back pocket.

Allow up to one hour to reach Grand Central Station when factoring in wait and transfer times.

You must purchase and pre-load a Metrocard before riding the subway. This option allows you to pay for your ticket with cash.

Children under the age of five travel for free on the AirTrain.

If your train arrives at Grand Central Station during peak hours between 06:00 and 10:00 on a weekday, you will be charged an extra $3 (€2.90).

How to get from JFK to Grand Central by private transfer

For an on-time, fully customizable experience, it’s best to book a private JFK Airport transfer directly to your hotel in the city center. Top-rated companies like Welcome Pickups can provide a seamless transfer to Grand Central Station, with lots of extra perks that regular taxis don’t offer, such as:

Competitive fixed prices with no hidden costs
Flexible cancellation policy
Up to 1 hour of free waiting time
Modern, sanitized vehicles
English-speaking drivers
Airport meet and greets

Best of all, our local drivers will be all too happy to answer any questions you have about New York and will even give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your hotel so your holiday can start as soon as you land.

How much is a private transfer from JFK Airport to Grand Centra Station?

The quote you receive at the time of booking is the final price you’ll pay; it’s free from hidden extras and won’t change once you’ve confirmed your reservation. As you complete your booking, your payment can be made using a debit or credit card so you don’t need to worry about cash on the day.

For up to three passengers, the trip from JFK Airport to Grand Central will cost $103.20 (€99). For five passengers, the cost will be $137.50 (€132) for an SUV, or you’ll pay $354.30 (€340) for a minivan that can accommodate up to 12 people.

We strive to make our booking experience as straightforward as possible. Once you open our website or app, all you have to do is enter your flight number, pickup time, and a few other details to receive a competitive quote and complete your reservation.

Cost

$103.20 (€99)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*When you book in advance a vehicle will be waiting outside your terminal so you won't need to walk far.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from JFK Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Your driver will be waiting to greet you in the Arrivals Hall just after the Baggage Claim area. Following a warm introduction, you’ll be lent a hand with your luggage as you’re shown to your pre-selected vehicle, ready for your transfer to begin. All of our drivers are local experts, so feel free to ask any questions you may have about New York while they dish out a few local tips. With all of your transfer needs in New York taken care of by Welcome, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Convenience

One of the main advantages of a private transfer service is the transparency around pricing. In a city like New York, where taxi prices are notoriously high, the last thing you want is any unwelcome surprises. When you book with Welcome, you’ll receive an upfront quote inclusive of all charges so you won’t have to spend the whole ride worrying about extra tolls, tips, and surcharges. Plus, you’ll be dropped at the most convenient entrance for your onward travel.

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are the ideal luxury travel option which ensures zero wait time, offers help with your luggage, and an efficient trip.

Useful Tips

There’s no need to worry or notify us if your flight is delayed. At Welcome Pickups, we provide all of our drivers with live updates on your flight’s schedule, so they will always be there when you land.

If you require any customizations such as a booster seat or wheelchair-accessible vehicle, you can submit your requests at the time of booking or through the app.

JFK Airport is huge, so we suggest selecting a pickup time at least 40 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival to ensure you can pass through Immigration and collect any luggage without any stress.

Welcome Pickups transfer

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

DAYTIME

€130.0

NIGHTTIME

€130.0

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 to get from JFK to Grand Central?

There are three ways to get from JFK to Grand Central; taxi, private transfer, or the subway. Taking a JFK Airport taxi will take between 30 and 60 minutes to reach Grand Central and will cost $75 (€68), excluding tolls and surcharges. The train will be much cheaper at $16.75 (€16.30) per person, but it will take around 1 hour and involves a transfer to the LIRR. Lastly, you can choose to arrange a private transfer and receive a competitive fixed fare price and a guaranteed on-time pick-up.

Does the JFK AirTrain go to Grand Central Station?

Unfortunately, the AirTrain doesn’t run directly to Grand Central Station so you will need to transfer at Jamaica Station to the LIRR. Alternatively, you can pre-book a private transfer and be dropped right at the curb of your hotel.

How much is a taxi from JFK to Grand Central Station?

From JFK to Grand Central the taxi fare will be fixed at $75 (€68), which doesn’t include tips, tolls, or surcharges, which brings the final fare price closer to $100 (€96).

Is there a shuttle from JFK to Grand Central Station?

Several private companies such as Go Airlink Shuttle provide a shuttle service between JFK and Downtown. These offer a similar service to the no longer operational NYC Express Bus.

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How to get from JFK to Grand Central by taxi

How much is a taxi from JFK to Grand Central Station?

Cost

$70 (€68)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24 hours a day from JFK Airport.

Where do I find a taxi at JFK Airport?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from JFK to Grand Central Station by train

How much is the train from JFK to Grand Central?

Cost

$16.75 (€16.30)

Trip Duration

60 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The AirTrain and LIRR both run 24 hours a day.

Where do I find the train at JFK Airport?

Convenience

Timetables

AirTrain

JFK Airport – Jamaica Station

LIRR Timetable

Jamaica Station – Grand Central Station

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from JFK to Grand Central by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from JFK Airport to Grand Centra Station?

Cost

$103.20 (€99)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from JFK Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

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

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How to get from JFK to Grand Central?

Does the JFK AirTrain go to Grand Central Station?

How much is a taxi from JFK to Grand Central Station?

Is there a shuttle from JFK to Grand Central Station?

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