Cheapest JFK to Times Square: AirTrain + LIRR + Subway (~$16)
The Budget Commuter Combo
For solo travelers without heavy luggage, the public transit trifecta beats taxi/rideshare ($70–100+) and AirTrain+subway-only ($11.75 but slower).
Step-by-Step (Current 2024 Fares)
- AirTrain JFK – Board at terminal; ride to Jamaica Station. Cost: $8.50 (paid at Jamaica exit via MetroCard/OMNY).
- LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) – Jamaica → Penn Station (4 stops, ~20 min). Cost: $10.50 peak / $7.75 off-peak (CityTicket off-peak). Buy via MTA eTix app or ticket machine.
- Subway – Penn Station (34 St–Penn) → Times Sq–42 St (1, 2, 3, A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, S). Cost: $2.90 (OMNY/MetroCard).
Total: ~$21.90 peak / ~$19.15 off-peak
Note: Original $16 figure is outdated (pre-2023 fare hikes).
Alternatives Compared
| Option | Cost (1 adult) | Time | Best For |
|---|
| AirTrain + Subway (E/J/Z) | $11.75 | 60–75 min | Light luggage, time flexibility |
| NYC Airporter Bus | $18 | 60–90 min | Port Authority drop-off |
| Taxi (flat fare) | $70 + toll/tip | 45–75 min | Groups, heavy bags, door-to-door |
| Uber/Lyft | $60–100+ | 45–75 min | Convenience, surge risk |
| Private transfer | $100+ | 45–75 min | Pre-booked, meet-and-greet |
Pro Tips
- OMNY contactless (phone/watch/card) works on AirTrain, subway, bus—no MetroCard needed.
- LIRR CityTicket valid off-peak only (weekdays 10 AM–4 PM, 8 PM–5 AM; weekends/holidays all day).
- Luggage: AirTrain & LIRR have racks; subway = crowded, awkward.
- Group of 4+: Taxi/Uber often cheaper per person.
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