Navigating Between Kennedy and Newark Airports: Routes and Transit Options

When traveling between the two major airports in the New York City area, JFK and Newark, passengers have numerous options. Whether you prefer the convenience of a car, the cost-saving benefits of public transit, or the time-saving benefits of a quicker route, there are several factors to consider.

Direct Routes and Vehicle Options

The most straightforward route involves a combination of the Van Vorst Parkway, Verrazano Bridge, Staten Island Expressway, and Goethals Bridge or Bayonne Bridge. Alternatively, you can travel on Route 440 over the West Shore Expressway to the Outerbridge Crossing. While these routes might seem direct, they might not always be the best choice. Instead, I recommend using Newark Airport due to its larger size and easier-to-navigate structure.

Public Transit Options

For those with ample time and who wish to save money, public transit can be a viable option. Start your journey with the AirTrain to a subway stop, such as the A or C line to Chambers Street or the E line to the World Trade Center. From there, walk to the PATH station and catch the PATH train to Newark Penn Station. From Newark Penn Station, you can take either a NJ Transit train or a local Newark city bus, which is cheaper but requires exact change. Depending on your schedule, you might also choose the A, C, or E subway lines or the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Penn Station, then switch to NJ Transit there. For the savvy traveler, the subway/PATH/city bus route can be completed for less than $10, though it may take up to 3 hours, including transfer times.

Car Services and Express Buses

The quickest way to travel between JFK and Newark is with a car service, which can take between 60 to 90 minutes and costs around $100, depending on traffic. An express bus service is another option, albeit less expensive, but less time-efficient. The JFK - EWR bus is a convenient choice, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours, but it is easier to manage baggage.

Cost and Convenience Insights

Traveling between JFK and Newark can be challenging, especially in terms of cost and convenience. Uber is typically the most expensive, with fares often exceeding $100. A taxi is even more expensive due to tolls, as you would need to double the cabbie's return trip fare. For the most cost-effective option, consider taking the JFK AirTrain to Howard Beach and connecting to the A train at a cost of $10, which runs express into Manhattan. Exit at 34th Street/Penn Station and transfer to a NJ Transit train to Newark (around $15). Various shuttle buses are available, but most have been suspended due to the pandemic. Another slightly faster but more expensive option is to take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and connect to a LIRR train to Grand Central, with one stop on the 7 train.

Pro Tips

Pro tip: Do not attempt the train option if you have a lot of luggage or even particularly heavy luggage. You may need to physically carry all of it up multiple flights of stairs, and there is a risk of theft on public transit. Always be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure.

When deciding on the best route, consider your available time, budget, and the amount of luggage you have. Each option has its pros and cons, so choose the one that suits your needs.