Newark Transfer to Manhattan: Getting from NYC to Newark Airport
- Naureen Chhipa
- 3 days ago
- 9 min read
Traveling between New York City, Manhattan, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey can be challenging for visitors and locals alike if it's your first time visiting. Whether you are catching a flight or welcoming someone, knowing the best ways to transfer between these two points saves time, reduces stress, and helps you plan your journey efficiently. This guide breaks down the most practical options for getting from New York City to Newark Airport, highlighting costs, travel times, and convenience. As an NYC local who loves to travel, I’ve flown in and out of Newark Airport more times than I can count! I want to make this an easy journey for you as well. Here are the best Newark-to-Manhattan transfer options and the best travel tips for getting from NYC to Newark Airport.
On my last departure from Newark Airport, I had the chance to put together this guide to suit every traveler's needs! Whether you like to travel by taking public transportation or treat your getaway as an epic escape, we’ll explore how to get around with every budget in mind.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases you make when you click on these links at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my travel blog!
Whether you like to travel by taking public transportation or treat your getaway as an epic escape, we’ll explore how to get around with every budget in mind.
Newark Transfer to Manhattan: NYC to/from Newark Airport
Table of Contents:
Top Picks | from/to Newark Airport & Midtown Manhattan
⭐️ Best Overall: Private Car/ Shuttle Transfer
😌 Best Easy (Public Transportation): Taking the Newark Express Bus
💲 Best Budget-Friendly Option: Taking the NJ Transit
How Far is Newark Airport from Manhattan?
Distance and Travel Time
Newark Airport is located in Newark, New Jersey, about 16 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan. The distance might seem short, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly affect travel time. On average, the trip takes between 30 minutes and over an hour, depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.
Planning ahead is key. If you have a flight to catch, allow extra time for unexpected delays. If you are traveling during rush hour, public transportation might be faster than driving.
Is It Easier to Get to Manhattan from JFK or Newark Airport?
If I’m being honest, both JFK and EWR airports are easy to get to. I personally prefer Newark Airport, but that’s just because of the comfort of travel. Every time I travel to/from JFK, I take the subway (metro), and from where I live, the journey takes me an hour and a half! Yikes! But if you’re traveling from Midtown (Port Authority) to JFK, the trip takes approximately an hour and costs $3 (Subway) + $8.75 (Airtrain).
The shuttle bus to Newark Airport, on the other hand, takes about 45 minutes from Midtown and is a direct, express bus. You’ll get a seat and won’t have to worry about missing your stop. The only downside is that it's a bit more expensive at $26. But for peace of mind, I’ll pay the extra (that’s way cheaper than a car service, taxi, or Uber) anytime!
Is There Public Transportation from Newark Airport to Manhattan?
Yes. To travel to and from Newark Airport, you have several public transportation options.
Public Transportation Options
Cheapest Way to Get from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Public transit offers affordable and reliable ways to reach Newark Airport from Manhattan. I always opt for taking public transportation unless I’m running late, traveling with a big group, or have a really early flight. Here are the main options:
NJ Transit Train: Newark Airport to Manhattan Train
The NJ Transit train is one of the most popular choices. You can catch a train from New York Penn Station directly to Newark Liberty International Airport Station.
Total Travel time: About 45-60 minutes
Cost: Around $15-$20 one way
Frequency: Trains run every 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours
How it works: From Penn Station, board an NJ Transit train heading toward Newark Airport. The train stops at the Newark Liberty International Airport Station, where you transfer to the AirTrain Newark, a free monorail that connects all airport terminals. *Please note: The airtrain is free when traveling within the airport (between terminals, parking lots, and rental car facilities). However, it costs $8.50 to enter or exit the Newark Liberty International Airport Train Station, which connects to NJ Transit or Amtrak.
This option is fast and avoids road traffic, making it ideal for travelers on a schedule.
Amtrak
Amtrak also serves Newark Liberty International Airport Station, but it is generally more expensive per person than NJ Transit and not always the best choice for airport transfers unless you are coming from outside New York City. The train departs from New York Penn Station (same as the NJ Transit train). I have honestly never taken Amtrak; it’s my least favorite way to/from EWR airport, but it is another option you have.
Travel time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Cost: Ranges depending on train time. Around $12-79 one way
Departure Points: New York Penn Station (NYP)
Frequency: Trains depart about every hour.
*Travel Tip: Whenever I want to book train tickets, I check Omio, which provides better rates on business class than going to the site directly. Click here and compare train ticket prices.
Bus Services: Shuttle Bus from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Several bus lines connect Manhattan to Newark Airport, including the Newark Airport Express Bus, which is my favorite and what I use almost every time I depart or arrive at EWR.
Travel time: Approximately 45 to 60 minutes
Cost: Around $25-30 one way
Departure points (Manhattan):
Port Authority Bus Terminal (41st street, between 8th and 9th avenue)
Bryant Park (42nd street, between 5th and 6th avenue), and
Grand Central (East 41st Street, between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue).
Departure Point (Newark Liberty International Airport)
Frequency: Buses depart every 30 to 60 minutes, operating from 5 am to 1 am.
The bus offers direct service to all airport terminals, which is convenient if you have heavy luggage. However, buses are subject to road traffic delays. You can pay for your ticket in person at the bus station or book ahead of time and save money.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
For those who prefer door-to-door service or travel with groups, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are popular choices. Since 4-6 people can usually fit in a car (depending on the size), you can split the total with your group, and it might even come out cheaper than paying per person for public transportation or a shared shuttle. Although more expensive, this is my go-to option when I’m running late for a flight!
Travel time: 35 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic
How Much is Uber or Lyft from EWR to Manhattan (Cost): Typically $80-$150, including tolls and tip. This also depends on vehicle size and time of day.
Availability: 24/7
Newark to Manhattan Uber Shuttle
Shared Shuttle from Newark to the Center of New York
Uber now offers a shared shuttle option if you don’t want a private car. To see if this makes sense for you, keep in mind you'll pay per person in the shuttle van. Whereas with a car, multiple people can travel at the same price rate. The rate for Uber Shuttles to Newark Airport in NYC is $19.94 per person, with pickups from Times Square (46th St & 7th Ave), Port Authority, The Theater District (747 7th Ave), Penn Station (34th St & 7th Ave), Chelsea (257 7th Ave), and the West Village (4th St 7th Ave). In an Uber shuttle, passengers are allowed 1 piece of luggage and 1 handbag. I recommend you book your shuttle van seat in advance, as space might be limited. The journey takes about an hour.
Private shuttle companies offer shared or private rides between Manhattan and Newark Airport. These services can be booked online and provide a balance between cost and comfort. If the price is within my budget, splurging a little to get a private experience is always worth it to me. I always find it time-saving to have a pickup/dropoff at the terminal I’m flying in or out of! Getting a private shuttle or car service can make your transfer from Newark to Manhattan easy and hassle-free.
Travel time: Similar to taxis, depending on traffic
Cost: Private airport transfers in NYC start at $87 per group of 3 (not bad!).
Benefits: Pre-booking, assistance with luggage, and sometimes meet-and-greet services. The best for me here is having a totally private experience catered to me!
Driving and Parking
If you have access to a car, driving to Newark Airport is straightforward but requires planning for parking. I only recommend renting a car if you're planning to explore more locations in New York, outside New York City. Driving in NYC can be hectic, and you should avoid it if you can. Public transportation in NYC can get you anywhere for $3 per trip, no need to rent a car! But if you're determined to explore our beautiful fall foliage on a road trip, then click here for more information and the latest prices on car rentals in NYC.
Travel time: 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic
Parking: 24hr parking is available at the airport, with rates starting around $30 per day
Route: The most common route to get to Newark Airport in NJ from NYC is via the Holland Tunnel or Lincoln Tunnel, then follow the signs to the airport.
🚙 Driving gives you flexibility, but it can be stressful due to traffic and parking fees.
Where to Stay at Newark Airport
Hotels Near Newark Airport
Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott | Mid-Range | Newark Airport
The Marriott at Newark Airport is my favorite place to get some sleep when my flights are cancelled or delayed! I've stayed here a couple of times, and having some amenities like a spa and swimming pool can instantly turn a bad travel day into a good one.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Transfer
Check schedules: Train and bus times can vary on weekends and holidays.
Allow extra time: Always plan for delays, especially during rush hours.
Use apps: Real-time transit apps like NJ Transit’s app or Google Maps help track schedules and delays. They also come in handy when we're heading to the airport!
Consider luggage: If you have heavy or multiple bags, taxis or shuttles might be easier.
Book in advance: For private car services, booking ahead can secure better rates.
Summary
The Best Way to Travel from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Getting from Newark to New York Top Pick: Best Overall:
My top pick for getting to Newark Airport from NYC is via a private car. A private car can pick you up from your hotel or the restaurant you're dining at before your flight ( we all know airport food is overpriced and not the best), and drop you off right at your terminal!
🚖 Private Car Newark Airport to Manhattan ➡️ Click here for more info and prices.
Getting from Newark to Manhattan: Easily on a Budget
For me, the best way to get to Newark Airport from Midtown on a budget has been to take the bus. The bus station is easy to find and is usually always on time.
🚍 Airport Express Bus Newark to Manhattan ➡️ Click here for more info and prices.
Getting from Newark Airport to Manhattan: Your Cheapest Option
The most affordable way to get to Newark Airport from NYC is by taking NJ Transit. The only reason this option didn't make it to "Easily on a Budget" is that Penn Station can be overwhelming for first-timers. Even I, at times, get lost trying to find an exit there or a train track, and I've been living in NYC for almost two decades now. Penn Station is big, but totally doable. If you're choosing this option, I only ask that you have ample travel time to make up for trying to figure out where everything is!
Thanks so much for reading! I hope you found this travel guide helpful. Here are a few more blog posts to help you hang out in NYC like a local and make the most of your stay!
Related Posts of NYC Travel
Articles on NYC:
