Brett Williams
Brett Williams
Planning to visit New York City? Take the train from JFK to Manhattan. It’s faster and cheaper to take the train from JFK Airport to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, over taking a cab or ride share. The scenario changes if you have a large number of people or are so fatigued you are seeing through time, but for most people, this is a great option.
It will cost you between $16 to $19 and take between 30 to 45 minutes. That folks, is a bargain in New York.
The great thing about it, is you can easily connect to another train to get to your hotel or or use the Times Square shuttle (look for the grey S) to get to Times Square.
You can use contactless payment to catch the AirTrain on your phone. Don’t bother with getting an OMNY card. It’s outdated, you don’t have time and its just faster to use your phone. Trust me.
Okay, let’s dive in and show you how.
Step 1: Take the AirTrain from JFK Airport
- Where: Follow signs in your terminal to the AirTrain JFK. They will be in Green
- Cost: $8.25 (payable at the exit station, not onboard). Done at the turnstiles
- Direction: Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station. This is the key connection point to the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road).
- Time: Approx. 10–15 minutes.
Tip: Choose the Jamaica Station route, not Howard Beach, which connects to the A subway (slower).
Step 2: Catch the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Manhattan
Where: Once you exit the AirTrain at Jamaica Station, follow signs to the LIRR.
- Destination: Choose a LIRR train heading to Grand Central Madison
- Tickets: Use the MTA TrainTime app or ticket machines to purchase. It’s easier on the app. Off-peak: ~$7.75; Peak: ~$10.75. Remember tp activate the ticket once on the train. There is a conductor who will check.
- Time: 20–25 minutes to Grand Central.
Tip: Some trains still go to Penn Station. If your train goes there, you can transfer to the E subway line and switch to the 6 train at Lexington Ave/53rd St for Grand Central.
Step 3: Arrive at Grand Central Terminal
- Grand Central Madison is directly connected to Grand Central Terminal.
- From there, walk to the subway, taxi stands, or explore Midtown.
When you get off the LIRR, you are deep underground. Take the escalators up, pay attention to the signage and head for 42nd Street or the Grand Concourse. If unsure, follow the crowd or ask.
Just keep heading to 42nd Street and get ready for the chaos that is 42nd. Don’t worry, by the end of your stay you should be use to it.
Total Cost and Time Summary
| Step | Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| JFK to Jamaica | AirTrain | $8.25 | 10–15 mins |
| Jamaica to Manhattan | LIRR | $7.75–$10.75 | 20–25 mins |
| Total | $16–$19 | 30–45 mins |
Why Take the Train?
- 🚀 Fastest option outside of rush hour
- 💰 Affordable compared to taxis or rideshare (~$60+)
- 🧭 Easy navigation with clear signs and staff assistance
- 🌎 Eco-friendly and less traffic stress
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the smartest way to get from JFK to Grand Central Station, taking the AirTrain and LIRR is a reliable, budget-friendly, and quick option. With regular service and a new direct LIRR link to Grand Central Madison, it’s never been easier to reach the heart of Manhattan.
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