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Getting from JFK to Times Square: All Transport Options

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, Times Square is the crown jewel of New York and is situated in Midtown Manhattan. Visitors love staying in this area because of its proximity to the world-famous Empire State Building and a phenomenal amount of Broadway theatres. With over 50 million visitors flying into JFK Airport every year, things can get a little busy, so we’ve broken down all the available transport options from JFK to Times Square to make things simple for you.

There are currently five main options for transportation from JFK to Times Square; subway, train, car rental, taxi or private transfer. The cheapest option is the subway, costing just €10.20. Alternatively, you can take a JFK Airport taxi if you want a faster, more comfortable journey. The journey takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic levels and the price of a transfer from JFK Airport to Times Square is around €64.80, not including extra charges. 

If you’d prefer a set-rate fee with no hidden costs and a fully personalised transfer service, pre-booking a private transfer with trusted companies like Welcome Pickups is a fantastic choice for those who want a hassle-free arrival.

*The direct bus that used to run from JFK to Manhattan is currently suspended. However, there are plans to replace it at some point in the future.

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
Welcome Pickups €120 45min 24/7 Book
Book
Taxi €64.80 45min 24/7
Subway €20.40 60min 24/7
Train €29.40 35min 24/7
Car Rental €70 35min 24/7

How to get from JFK to Times Square by taxi

Travelling by taxi from JFK to Times Square is without a doubt the fastest and most comfortable choice. The journey takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic and local taxi drivers charge a flat-rate fee of $70 (€64.80) to any destination in Manhattan. However, extra charges such as tolls and peak hour surcharges may apply.

Local taxis are easy to spot with their iconic yellow colour and “TAXI” roof sign and they can be found waiting at taxi ranks outside of each JFK terminal, with attendants ready to help you if needed. Alternatively, you can pre-book a private transfer with a trusted company or call one from the airport.

Taxi fares from JFK to Times Square

A taxi from JFK to Times Square is calculated based on a set-fare system, costing $70 (€64.80) to any destination within Manhattan. Once inside the taxi, make sure you check the on-screen rate message that reads “Rate 2- JFK Airport.” New York taxis take cash or credit card so there’s no need to worry about withdrawing cash at the airport.

Extra charges: 

Tolls – up to $15 (€14.10).

State surcharge – $1.50 (€1.40).

Peak hours – $5 (4.60) between 16:00 and 20:00.

For a more personalised option with the bonus of no hidden fees, pre-book a convenient private transfer with Welcome Pickups and enjoy the luxury of a door-to-door service.

Cost

€64.80

Trip Duration

45 MIN

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis and private shuttles are available 24/7 from JFK Airport

Where do I get the taxi from?

Official taxi ranks are located outside every terminal at JFK Airport. They are easily located by following the signs in the airport. If you wish to pre-book a comfortable private shuttle, you’ll organise a meeting point with your driver before your arrival.

Convenience

Taking a taxi from JFK to Times Square is by far the most hassle-free option, allowing you to avoid waiting times, changeovers and busy public transport. The ride is door-to-door and allows you to sit back and enjoy your journey through one of the most famous cities in the world.

Although, if you opt for finding a local taxi at the ranks, you may end up waiting a while due to queues. This can be avoided by pre-booking a private airport transfer. Furthermore, traffic can be an issue in NYC, so try to travel outside of peak hours. 

Best times to travel:

Weekdays – 10:00-15:00 and after 20:00.

Weekends and Holidays – before 12:00 and after 20:00.

Editor’s Note

If you want to get from JFK Airport to Times Square quickly upon landing and avoid extra costs and tolls, we recommend pre-booking a private transfer.

Useful Tips

You will be expected to pay tolls for your journey by taxi from JFK to Times Square, however, if you book a private shuttle, this will not be the case.
A 20% tip is expected for taxis in NYC, so you should tip about $14 (€13) for your journey from JFK to Times Square.
NYC taxi drivers take cash or credit card payments.
Never accept a taxi ride from someone who approaches you in the terminal or arrivals hall convincing you to get in their taxi, they are usually unlicensed drivers.

How to get from JFK to Times Square by subway

Taking the subway from JFK Airport to Times Square is the cheapest option, especially during rush hour. The journey takes about 60 minutes, however, the trip includes a changeover so be prepared for a slightly longer journey time.

After you’ve collected your luggage, you’ll need to take the AirTrain, a train system that connects all JFK terminals as well as running from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station or Howard Beach Station, the closest subway stations. The best option to get to Times Square is to head to Jamaica Station and ride the MTA E subway line to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, a 3-minute walk from Times Square.

How much is the subway from JFK Airport to Times Square?

You’ll need to buy two tickets to get from JFK to Times Square by subway, nevertheless, it’s still the cheapest option.

First, you have to purchase an AirTrain ticket or buy a MetroCard and add the ticket onto it. The AirTrain costs $8.25 (€7.55). Once at Jamaica Station, you can purchase a MetroCard from one of the self-service machines or ticket booths if you haven’t already. Make sure you keep your card, as it can be topped up and reused throughout your trip.

A one-way subway ticket in New York is $2.75 (€2.50), bringing the total cost of the journey from JFK to Times Square to $11 (€10.20).

Cost

€10.20

Trip Duration

60 MIN

The subway runs every 3-5 or 6-8 minutes during peak hours but waiting times can take up to 20 minutes depending on the time of day.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The AirTrain JFK and MTA Subway run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Where do I get the subway from?

First, you’ll need to follow the signs in any of the terminals towards the AirTrain station and ride the train to Jamaica Station. From there, you can hop on the E subway line and journey straight into Midtown Manhattan, getting off at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

Convenience

Whilst taking the subway is a great budget-friendly option, you’ll have to deal with changeovers and waiting times. On top of that, not all NYC subway stations have escalators or elevators, so you may have to carry your luggage up flights of stairs.

Editor’s Note

The easiest way to purchase subway tickets in New York is with a rechargeable MetroCard. You can purchase them from self-service machines at the stations for $1 (€0.90).

Useful Tips

Travel between airport terminals is free but you’ll need to pay for the AirTrain to the stops that connect with the subway, such as Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station.
You will need a MetroCard to pay the AirTrain fare and also to ride the subway.

How to get from JFK to Times Square by train

A quicker yet slightly more expensive alternative to taking the subway is to travel from JFK Airport to Times Square by train. Whilst ticket prices go up during peak hours, this is still a convenient option, especially if you’re travelling at a time when the roads are congested.

Just like the subway, you’ll need to take the AirTrain from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station, which should take about 15 minutes. From there, you’ll change onto the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and ride the train for 20 minutes until you reach Penn Station or Grand Central Station, both within walking distance of Times Square.

How much is the train from JFK Airport to Times Square?

As with the subway, you’ll need to buy two tickets to get from JFK to Times Square by train, the first ticket you’ll need is an AirTrain ticket costing $8.25 (€7.55).

Tickets for the LIRR are different to the MetroCard system. and vary depending on the time you’re travelling. A one-way ticket during rush hour (06:00-10:00) costs $10.75 (€9.90), whereas during off peak hours, weekends and holidays, a ticket will cost $7.75 (€6.60). The total cost of the journey should cost about $20 (€18.40) during rush hour and $16 (€14.70) any other time.

Cost

€14.70

Trip Duration

35 MIN

The train comes every 3-5 minutes during rush hour and waiting times can be anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes.

Covenience
Safety
Value for Money

The AirTrain JFK and LIRR train run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Where do I get the train from?

To take the AirTrain from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station, you’ll simply need to follow the signs in any of the terminals towards the AirTrain station. After that, you can hop on the LIRR and ride 35 minutes to Penn Station or Grand Central Station.

Convenience

Whilst taking the train is a great value-for-money option, having to change modes of transport and dealing with waiting times can make it a bit of a drag. Plus, some train stations don’t have elevators or escalators, so if you have a lot of luggage, it’s not very convenient.

However, if speed is your priority, this is the fastest public transportation option available. Just keep an eye on when you’re travelling as the LIRR can get pretty busy during weekday rush hours (06:00-10:00).

Editor’s Note

For the AirTrain, you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable MetroCard for $1 (€0.90) and top it up with the right amount. You cannot use the MetroCard for the LIRR train. The ticket machines for LIRR differ from the ones for the subway, so make sure to use the right one. You can also purchase your LIRR ticket onboard at a higher rate.

Useful Tips

During off-peak hours and weekends, you can also purchase a City Ticket, costing $5 (€4.70).
Please keep in mind that Jamaica Station is a very busy hub. Thus, the waiting lines at the ticket machines can be long.

How to get from JFK to Times Square by car rental

If you’re after complete independence, hiring a car is probably your best bet, especially if you’d like to travel beyond NYC’s limits. Scheduling your trip itinerary and visiting all of NYC’s surrounding areas couldn’t be easier than with a rental car.

There are plenty of car rental companies available at JFK Airport, you just need to decide what your budget is and what type of vehicle is best for you. Depending on your plans, you can opt for a city car or an SUV, an economy car, a family car, or a luxury option. 

The drive from JFK to Times Square will take you around 35 minutes in normal traffic and up to 90 minutes in peak hours, you can check the best times to travel in the taxi section at the top of this page. Once you’ve arrived at Times Square, you’ll need to find one of the nearby car parks as parking on the street will be near impossible.

How much does it cost to rent a car from JFK Airport?

The cost of a hire car depends on how long you’re hiring it for, the type of vehicle you select and which company you choose to use. Hiring a car in NYC can cost anywhere from $50 (€46.80) to $250 (€233.90) per day, so make sure you do your research and find the most effective option for you. You’ll also need to pay tolls on your way into the city so ensure you factor it into your budget.

Cost

€70

Trip Duration

35 MIN

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

You can contact car rental companies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Where do I hire a car from?

Each of the JFK Airport terminals has a rental car area, usually near the baggage claim zone. If you head to this area, you can find car hire desks or phones to contact one of the car rental companies. You can also contact either of these companies before your trip to book everything in advance:

Hertz | +1 718 656 7600

Budget | +1 718 656 1890

Avis | +1 718 244 5400

Alamo | +1 844 648 1611

Once you’ve booked your car, you’ll need to catch the free AirTrain to the Federal Circle Station, which is where the car rental parking is located.

Convenience

Of all the options, nothing can be compared to the autonomy and convenience of having your own car for the duration of your trip. You can pick it up at JFK Airport and return it to set points throughout the city or drive it straight back to JFK on the day of your departure.

However, driving around NYC isn’t always the easiest option due to New York’s famous traffic levels. So, make sure you check the best time to travel in the taxi section at the top of the page.

Editor’s Note

We recommend booking your JFK Airport car rental in advance in order to benefit from better deals and avoid going through the process in one of America’s busiest airports.

Useful Tips

Research and compare your options to find the most value-for-money deal that fits your needs.
The car rental company may give you an E-Z Pass transponder for your toll payments. Otherwise, you can pay the toll fees in cash.
A credit card will be needed to pay for your car rental.
Car rental companies provide many insurance packages, it’s always a wise idea to purchase insurance in case anything happens.

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
€130.0
NIGHTTIME
€133.0
Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups has a Net Safety Score of 99 of 100

We’ve introduced a metric indicating how safe travellers feel when using our services during the COVID-19 pandemic. After every ride, we ask each traveller to leave a review.

  • 20 minute gap between transfers

  • Regular Car Sanitisation

  • Contactless ride

  • Sanitiser in every car

Read More

Frequently asked questions

How to get from JFK to Times Square?

There are five main options for transportation from JFK to Times Square; subway, train, car rental, taxi or private transfer. The fastest options are to book a taxi or private transfer or to get on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). You can also take the subway, which is the cheapest option, or hire a car for more independence.

If you’d prefer a fully personalised transfer service with premium extra, pre-booking a private transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups is a fantastic choice for those who want a smooth arrival.

 

How much is a taxi from JFK to Times Square?

A taxi from JFK to Times Square costs around $70 (€64.80). Taxi fares are calculated based on a set-fare system, so check that the on-screen rate message reads “Rate 2- JFK Airport.” You’ll also need to pay extra costs such as tolls, rush hour surcharges and state charges.

For a more personalised option with peace of mind of no hidden fees, pre-book a convenient private transfer with Welcome Pickups and enjoy our top-rated door-to-door service.

How far is JFK from Times Square?

JFK Airport is located around 24 km from Times Square and the drive will take approximately 45 minutes in normal traffic and up to 2 hours in heavy traffic. The route will also include tolls.

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