JFK to NYC: How to take the AirTrain to Manhattan (2024)

This no-nonsense video shows: the AirTrain system to get you from JFK to Manhattan is easier than ever to use.

As you walk through the terminal at JFK, just follow the green “AirTrain” signs.
They’ll first lead you to baggage claim, where you’ll pickup your luggage, before again following the AirTrain signs up to the train platform.

You’ll want to head to Jamaica Station, which is in Queens. The trains arrive every 5 or 10 minutes.

Arriving at Jamaica Station, you'll pay $8.50 to leave the AirTrain.
The AirTrain fee is $8.50 a person.

Recently, they upgraded to a contactless payment system.
You’ve always had to buy a MetroCard from the kiosks, which people found confusing.
Now, just tap your credit card on the reader/scanner and walk on through!

After paying for the AirTrain, you have two choices.
You can take the subway into Manhattan, which is the cheaper (but longer) option.
I usually take the Long Island Railroad.
Follow the signs for the LIRR outside to the platform and ticket machine.
You’ll almost always find someone in a red jacket who’s there to help if needed.

You can take the railroad either to Grand Central or Penn Station, whichever is closer to your hotel in Manhattan.

Depending on train times, the whole trip from your airline gate at JFK into Manhattan should take about an hour.
A taxi could take about the same, depending on traffic. That's always the big "unknown" in New York City!

If you have a lot of people in your group or a lot of luggage, a taxi might make more sense. Otherwise, give the AirTrain a shot!


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