When travelling from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan or Queens in New York City, you have five transport options. The easiest and most convenient options are to either take a private LaGuardia Airport shuttle or taxi, or use a rideshare app. The journey takes around 30 minutes in light traffic and up to 2 hours in heavy traffic. Taxis at LGA are metered and you can expect to pay around $40 (€37) to Manhattan. If you wish to travel on a flat-rate fare, you can always book a private shuttle service in advance. Finally, the cheapest option is to take the subway which costs $2.75 (€2.40) with a journey taking around 50 minutes.
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Getting from LGA Airport to Manhattan: All Transport Options
Welcome PickupsJune 1, 2023
Comparison of the options
How to get from LGA Airport to Manhattan by taxi
Taking a taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan is the easiest and fastest transportation option when travelling to the city centre of New York. Its the best choice for those travelling with lots of luggage as they provide door-to-door services.
Taxi fare from LGA to Manhattan
Taxis from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan are metered and therefore the price may vary. A journey in usual traffic is likely to cost around $40 (€37) and you will also be charged for any tolls along the way. Be aware that traffic can significantly affect your final fare and don’t forget that it’s customary to tip taxi drivers in New York (the standard is around 20%). Please note that an extra $1 (€0.90) is charged during rush-hour, between 16:00 and 20:00.
Cost
€37
Trip Duration
30 Min.
*Rates may vary unless the taxi is booked in advance
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Taxis and private shuttles are available 24/7 from LaGuardia Airport.
Where do I get it from?
Official yellow taxi stands are situated outside every terminal at LGA Airport. There are also assistants available at every rank to assist and guide you to a taxi, just keep in mind that it’s customary to tip these attendants 10%-15%. Most taxis are standard sedans, but larger vehicles may also be available upon request.
*If you book with a private shuttle company like Welcome Pickups, your driver will be waiting for you, with a name sign, at the arrivals exit.
Convenience
Taxis and private shuttles are the most comfortable option for getting you from LGA to Manhattan, as you save time walking, transferring and carrying heavy luggage. Airport taxis and shuttles in New York are regulated by law and abide by strict safety measures, so you can be sure that you are in good hands if you take an official taxi or shuttle.
It is best to avoid metered taxis during rush hours as traffic is heavy and the journey is slow. Peak hours are Monday through Friday between 14:00 and 20:00, with 15:00 to 19:00 being the worst in terms of congestion levels. The journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic.
Editor’s Note
There can be a long wait at the taxi ranks during peak hours, as well as a slow transfer into the city and high fare. If you wish to travel to your destination without having to wait in the taxi rank queues, you can book a private shuttle in advance.
Useful Tips
How to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan by rideshare
Another great choice for those travelling from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan is to use a rideshare app such as Lyft or Uber. It’s usually a similar or slightly cheaper price to a traditional New York taxi. This is a convenient option because the driver comes straight to you and you’ll avoid having to search for a taxi in one of New York’s busiest airports. The journey from LGA to Manhattan takes about 30 minutes in normal traffic conditions and can take up to 2 hours in heavy traffic.
How much will a rideshare cost from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
Rideshare apps are often cheaper than local taxis, however, the price depends on which app you use, which type of car you order and the demand. Rideshare prices for an Uber or Lyft from LGA to Manhattan range from as cheap as $40 (€37.10) to as expensive as $120 (€111.30). To give you an idea of the kind of prices you’ll get, a Lyft ride from LGA Airport to Manhattan costs approximately:
Lyft (personal ride): $50 (€46.40)
XL (supersized ride): $65 (€60.30)
Lux Black (luxury ride): $80 (€74.20)
Lux Black XL (spacious luxury ride): $120 (€111.30)
Cost
€46.40
Trip Duration
30 Min.
*Prices may vary depending on whether you use Lyft or Uber and traffic conditions.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Uber and Lyft services are available 24/7.
Where do I get my Lyft or Uber ride from?
You can either use the app on your phone to order a ride or you can head to one of the designated pickup areas outside of the arrivals area of any terminal. Using the app is the most convenient option, as you can book your ride whilst you’re waiting for your luggage and let your driver know where you are.
From Terminal B, your rideshare will pick you up on the 2nd level of the car park. In addition, the pick-up areas for Terminals A, C, and D are directly outside the terminals.
Convenience
Rideshare apps are a fairly reliable option, however, the arrivals area can make it tricky to find your driver and you could end up waiting a while or missing your ride. The best way to tackle this is to keep your app open and track your ride; you can also communicate with your driver to ensure you pick a clear meeting spot.
Editor’s Note
An Uber or Lyft ride is sometimes slightly cheaper, if not the same price, as a regular New York taxi.
Useful Tips
How to get from LGA to Manhattan by subway
There is no direct subway service from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan. If you wish to use the subway system to reach Manhattan from the airport, you will need to take the Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link Airport Bus to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue. The service takes approximately 15 minutes and is free of charge. From Roosevelt Ave you can take the E Subway Line into Midtown, which will take around 35 minutes.
How much is the subway from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan?
The Q70 is free of charge and the subway will cost $2.75 (€2.40) each for a one-way journey. However, if you board one within two hours of buying the ticket you can transfer to a subway or another bus service for free if you use a Metrocard, keeping the price low. Metrocards can be purchased from stations at ticket machines or from Metrocard agents at the airport.
Cost
€2.40
Trip Duration
50 Min
There can be up to a 20-minute wait for the subway.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Both the subway and the Q70 bus operate 24/7.
Where do I get it from?
You will need to take the Q70 bus from terminals B, C or D at LGA Airport. The E Line Subway leaves from Roosevelt Avenue Station in Jackson Heights, so you’ll need to get off of the Q70 here and travel on the E line to get to Midtown Manhattan. You’re stop will be 42nd Street/Port Authority, however, we recommend you check to see which stop is closest to your hotel or accommodation.
Convenience
Despite its low cost, there are no direct subway lines from the LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan which means you need to take a bus before getting on the subway. Having said this, the services operate 24/7, therefore if time and luggage are not issues, it is a cheap and relatively easy way to get to from LGA to Manhattan.
Editor’s Note
It is better to purchase a Metrocard for $1 (€0.90), even if you don't plan on using the public transport much. It will not only save you money but it will also save time on your commute.
Useful Tips
How to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan by train
As with the subway, there’s no direct train service at LaGuardia Airport. If you wish to travel by train from LGA to Manhattan, you will need to take the LaGuardia Link Q70 to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) first. You don’t have to pay to board the Q70 LaGuardia Link and the buses are equipped with luggage racks for your convenience. Once you’re onboard the Q70, expect one stop before arriving at Woodside Station. From here, you’ll board the LIRR directly to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan.
How much is the train from LGA to Manhattan?
The exact fare for the LIRR depends on whether you’re travelling during peak hours. A one-way ticket during rush hour (06:00-10:00) costs $6.50 (€6), whereas, during off-peak hours, weekends and holidays, a ticket will cost $9 (€8.40).
Cost
€6
Trip Duration
20 Min.
The train comes every 3-5 minutes during rush hour and waiting times can be anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes on weekends and holidays.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The LaGuardia Link Q70 and LIRR train run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Where do I get the train from?
To get the LaGuardia Link Q70, follow the signs for public transit from Terminals B and C. The LaGuardia Link Q70 stops in front of the terminal and runs nonstop every 8-10 minutes to the subway. If you arrive at Terminal A, take the airport shuttle to Terminal B to catch the bus. Once you’ve arrived at Woodside Station. Upon arrival, exit the bus and follow the signs to the LIRR.
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 less convenient. However, the LIRR is the fastest public transportation option available. Just remember that it might take longer during rush hour as it gets very busy.
Editor’s Note
During off-peak hours, you can buy a CityTicket from Woodside to Penn Station for $5 (€4.60).
Useful Tips
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.
Read more Book Welcome Pickups transferWelcome Pickups has a Net Safety Score of 99 of 100
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20 minute gap between transfers
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Regular Car Sanitisation
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Contactless ride
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Sanitiser in every car
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
When travelling from LaGuardia to Manhattan in a taxi, your fare will be calculated using a taximeter, therefore you can expect to pay around $40 (€37) for the trip in light traffic conditions. There is an extra charge for peak-hour service and tolls along the route.
For a fully personalised transfer with no hidden fees, pre-book your LGA Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups and take advantage of our door-to-door pickups, 24/7 customer support and app.
What transfer options are there from LGA Airport to Manhattan?
There are five options for transportation from LaGuardia to Manhattan; a private shuttle, a taxi, a rideshare app, the subway or a train. Taxis and shuttles are recommended as they are comfortable and faster for those with luggage, however, taking the subway is great for those on a budget.
How far is LGA Airport from New York City?
LaGuardia Airport is located 14.8 km away from Midtown Manhattan. In normal traffic conditions, the journey should take around 30 minutes and up to 2 hours in heavy traffic.
How to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
There are numerous ways to get from LGA to Manhattan, each with their own pros and cons. If you’d prefer not to mess around with public transport, you can take a taxi, private transfer or rideshare. These three options are the fastest and most convenient options. For those on a budget, we recommend taking the subway. Whilst the journey is a little longer, the fare will only cost you $2.75 (€2.40), Lastly, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) which is more expensive but much faster than the subway.
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