The Cheapest Way to Travel from JFK Airport to Newark Penn Station

Traveling from John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport to Newark Penn Station can be efficiently managed with a combination of public transportation options. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you choose the most economical way to make this journey. Additionally, we explore alternative methods and estimate the costs associated with each option.

Public Transportation Options

The cheapest way to travel from JFK Airport to Newark Penn Station typically involves a combination of the AirTrain, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and NJ Transit trains. Here's a detailed breakdown of the journey.

Step 1: AirTrain JFK

The first leg of your journey involves taking the AirTrain, a free public transportation system that connects JFK Airport's terminals to Jamaica Station. You do not need to purchase a ticket at this stage, as the AirTrain operates with free transfers.

Step 2: Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)

From Jamaica Station, you will board the LIRR train, which will take you to Penn Station in Manhattan. The fare for this leg of the journey typically ranges from $10 to $15, depending on the time of day and whether you are traveling during peak hours.

Step 3: NJ Transit Train to Newark Penn Station

At Penn Station, you will transfer to NJ Transit. You can catch a train to Newark Penn Station, which costs about $5 to $15, again depending on the specific train and time. This transfer involves walking or using a station concourse to reach your departure platform.

The total cost for this trip can range from approximately $23 to $38, depending on the specific transit choices and times. This route is considerably less expensive than a taxi or rideshare, which typically cost around $70 to $100 or more, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternative Methods and Related Costs

Here are some alternative methods and the associated costs:

Airtrain to Howard Beach Station: $8.25

Starting from your terminal, take the AirTrain to Howard Beach Station. This leg of the journey costs $8.25.

A-train from Howard Beach to Fulton Street: $2.90

Next, transfer to the A-train and ride it to Fulton Street. This costs an additional $2.90.

Walk to the World Trade Center: $0.00

Walk from Fulton Street to the World Trade Center. This is a free option.

PATH to Newark Penn Station: $2.75

Finally, take the PATH train to Newark Penn Station, which costs $2.75.

Challenging but Free Option Via Pedestrian Walkways

Another option, albeit challenging, is to walk to Newark via the George Washington Bridge. However, due to tunnel prohibitions, this method requires careful planning. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Walk across Brooklyn or Queens to a bridge that has a pedestrian walkway. The Brooklyn Bridge and the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge are viable options.

Step 2: Cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge to Staten Island or use the Williamsburg Bridge for a scenic view on foot.

Step 3: Take the NJ Transit train from Manhattan’s Penn Station or Hudson Terminal to Newark Penn Station.

Note: Detroit Ride serves as an important reminder that the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is closed to pedestrians and bicyclists, except during special events like the New York City Marathon.

While walking across and then riding the NJ Transit train is free, the challenge lies in the unpredictability of traffic and the length of the journey. It’s ideal for those willing to invest more time for a lower cost. However, it’s important to note that traffic is highly unpredictable and can result in a longer journey time or fare.

Despite the challenges, this method presents a viable alternative for budget-conscious travelers. To ensure you have the most up-to-date fares and schedules, be sure to check the respective transit websites before your trip.