Trains from and to New York Airport

Although JFK Airport doesn’t have a train station directly inside or next to its terminals, it is well connected to New York City via the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). Departing from the nearby Jamaica Station—just a 15-minute AirTrain ride from JFK—LIRR offers the fastest direct transfer to midtown Manhattan. While it’s slightly more expensive than the subway, it provides a quicker and more comfortable ride with more space for luggage.

LIRR is the busiest commuter rail system in North America, operating around 735 daily routes. However, it may not be ideal for travelers carrying heavy luggage, as some NYC stations (though very few) lack elevators. For families or groups, a taxi or private transfer might offer better value. For example, a family of four purchasing individual LIRR tickets will spend about $57 (€57), while a taxi or private JFK transfer would cost just slightly more.

The JFK Airport Train

If you choose to travel by the Long Island Railroad from JFK Airport, your journey begins with the AirTrain. This light rail system connects all JFK terminals and runs 24/7, departing every 7 minutes during busy hours and every 15 minutes during quieter periods. The ride from the terminals to Jamaica Station takes approximately 15 minutes. While AirTrain rides within the airport are free, the trip to Jamaica Station costs $8 (€8).

At Jamaica Station, you can transfer to the LIRR train bound for Penn Station in midtown Manhattan. The LIRR passes through Brooklyn and Long Island City, with connections to Atlantic Terminal. Trains operate nearly every 3 minutes during peak times and every 5–20 minutes off-peak. The ride to Manhattan takes around 20 minutes, making the total journey from JFK to downtown NYC roughly 35 minutes.

Our Tip: Both Jamaica Station and Penn Station are fully accessible, featuring elevators for passengers with mobility needs.

JFK Airport Train Ticket Fares and Prices

The AirTrain fare from JFK terminals to Jamaica Station is $8 (€8). LIRR ticket prices depend on the time of travel:

  • Peak hours (6:00 am – 10:00 am, weekdays): $10.75 (€10.75) → total cost $18.75 (€18.75)
  • Off-peak hours / weekends / holidays: $7.75 (€7.75) → total cost $15.75 (€15.75)
  • City Ticket (off-peak, same-day only): $5 (€5) → total cost $13 (€13)

City Tickets can only be used on the day of purchase and do not allow train line changes. A Metrocard (costing $1/€1) is required for your AirTrain transfer. You can purchase one at Jamaica Station before exiting the AirTrain area and load it with funds using the LIRR ticket machines (not the subway machines, which display the word “cheaper” on top).

While Metrocards cannot be used on the LIRR itself, you can buy both your Metrocard and train ticket at the LIRR vending machines. Keep your ticket handy, as the conductor will check it onboard.

Our Tip 1: You can buy tickets onboard, but they are more expensive, and City Tickets are not available on the train.
Our Tip 2: LIRR tickets can also be purchased through the MTA TrainTime App.
Our Tip 3: Children under 5 travel for free, while kids aged 6–12 pay half fare.