JFK Airport Taxis

Why Opt for JFK Airport Taxis

The distinctive yellow JFK airport taxis line up outside each terminal, providing comfortable and reliable transfers from New York JFK Airport to your destination in the city. While New York’s public transport is efficient, airport taxis offer several advantages that make them a top choice for many travelers:

• They operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Official taxi stands are located right outside all terminals.
• They provide direct, door-to-door service.
• Your luggage is stored securely in the vehicle’s trunk.
• You can travel comfortably without the crowds of public transport.

New York Airport Taxi Fares and Prices

Although New York taxis are metered, the 16-mile (26km) trip from JFK Airport to Manhattan has a flat fare of $52 (€52) for an approximately 45-minute ride. However, additional charges and NYC traffic can affect the final price.

Additional surcharges include:

• $0.50 (€0.50) – NY State Tax (for trips to New York only)
• $1.25 (€1.25) – Airport Access Fee (for JFK pick-ups only)
• $0.30 (€0.30) – Improvement Surcharge
• $2.50 (€2.50) – Congestion Surcharge (Manhattan south of 96th Street)
• $4.50 (€4.50) – Rush hour surcharge (4:00 pm – 8:00 pm on weekdays)
• Tolls – approximately $6.55 (€6.55)
• 15% – customary but optional tip

Total estimated fare: $65–$75 (€65–€75). For late-night transfers (8:00 pm–6:00 am), an extra $0.50 (€0.50) applies. No extra fees are charged for luggage.

Our Tip: New York airport taxis accept both cash and card payments.

Recommended Taxi Service

For those seeking extra convenience, we recommend Welcome Pickups — a 5-star rated transfer company praised across Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot for its quality and reliability.

• Local English-speaking drivers
• Flat, pre-paid fee
• Flight monitoring for delays
• 24/7 customer support
• Free cancellation

JFK Airport Taxi Fees to Popular Destinations

Below are estimated fares from JFK Airport to key New York destinations. Except for transfers to Manhattan, all other routes are metered.

Where is the Taxi Rank at New York Airport?

Yellow NY taxis are available 24/7 outside the Arrivals halls of every JFK terminal. Simply exit your terminal to find the official taxi rank. During rush hours, expect to wait up to 30 minutes for a cab.

Warning: Never accept offers from individuals claiming to be drivers or “Uber representatives.” These unauthorized drivers often overcharge unsuspecting passengers. Always use the official taxi queue.

Airport Taxi from JFK Airport to Hotel

Taking a yellow airport taxi directly to your hotel is one of the safest and most convenient options. Your driver will drop you off right at your hotel’s entrance — no need to handle luggage across public transport or navigate the busy streets of New York. The main downsides are traffic delays and possible waiting times during peak hours, but taxis remain a comfortable, value-for-money choice.

New York Airport Taxi Tips

• Only take taxis from official JFK taxi stands to avoid scams.
• Each terminal’s Port Authority Welcome Center can help you with taxi information.
• Standard taxis carry up to 4 passengers; minivans up to 5.
• Extra fares are charged per ride, not per passenger.
• For complaints or lost items, call 311.
• Always ask for a printed receipt at the end of your journey.
• Only rides from JFK to Manhattan have a fixed rate; others are metered.
• Check that the taximeter is reset and on before departure. For Manhattan, it should display the flat fare; for other destinations, $3 (€3) as the base rate.
• It’s customary to tip around 15% of the total fare.