If you’re landing in New York and need to switch from LGA to JFK, you already know it’s not as simple as it sounds. On paper, LGA to JFK is just under 10 miles apart. In reality, though, the trip can feel longer than it should. Traffic, construction detours, no direct rail link. It adds up.
So the big question in 2025: how do you actually get from LGA to JFK without losing your cool or your flight? The short answer is there are multiple ways, ranging from a couple of bucks on the subway to a couple hundred for a private chauffeur. Which one makes sense depends on time, money, and how much hassle you can tolerate. Let’s walk through all of them, from cheapest to most premium, so you can pick what works for your situation.
Which Airport Is Closer to Manhattan—LGA or JFK?
If you’re just trying to get into Manhattan fast, LGA to JFK has become one of the most common routes travelers look at. The distance is short on paper, less than 10 miles, but the experience can feel longer than it should. In plain New York terms, LGA to JFK can either be quick or frustrating depending on the hour. Sometimes it means sliding into a cab and getting there smoothly, other times it is traffic, waiting, and stress, all while the clock keeps ticking toward your next commitment.
Why Reliable Transfers Matter Between LGA and JFK
LaGuardia is mostly domestic. JFK is the international heavyweight. That’s why plenty of people land at one and depart from the other. Sometimes it’s a planned connection, other times it’s because the fare worked out cheaper that way. Either way, you’ve got to cross Queens.
Here’s the thing: New York doesn’t make it easy. There’s no direct train line. No one-seat subway. Just roads. And roads in New York, especially around two busy airports, can be unpredictable. I’ve seen people make it in 25 minutes with no traffic. I’ve also seen it drag close to two hours when the Grand Central Parkway turned into a parking lot.
Then there’s construction. LaGuardia’s new terminals look sleek, sure, but pickup areas keep shifting. JFK has its massive Terminal 1 rebuild, which creates bottlenecks. If you’re connecting flights in 2025, do yourself a favor: build in more buffer time than you think you need. You’ll thank yourself later.
Can You Walk Between JFK and LGA Airports?
Let’s get this out of the way: walking from LaGuardia to JFK isn’t an option—unless you’re secretly training for the New York City Marathon and don’t mind dodging freeway ramps, traffic, and a solid 10-mile trek through some not-so-scenic, not-so-pedestrian-friendly stretches of Queens. Even with the best running shoes, this is neither safe nor practical for airport transfers. Save your steps for Central Park and look to other options.
Transportation Options from LGA to JFK
Everyone’s got a different travel style. Some people would rather save money and deal with a longer trip. Others will pay extra for a stress-free ride. Here’s the full menu, starting with the lowest-cost options and moving up.
Public Transportation Options
Let’s start with the bare-bones option. You can take the Q70-SBS bus from LaGuardia to Jackson Heights, hop on the subway, then connect to the AirTrain at Jamaica Station for JFK.
Cost? Around $2.90 to $5.80 depending on how you pay and how many transfers you make. Time? Easily 75 to 90 minutes. That’s if transfers go smoothly. If you’re dragging two giant suitcases, stairs and crowded platforms will test your patience.
This is best for travelers on very tight budgets, students, or anyone with a long layover who doesn’t mind stretching the journey. Personally, if I had a tight connection, I wouldn’t risk it.
Shuttle Buses and Express Bus Service
If you don’t want to navigate multiple transfers, the NYC Express Bus is a middle-ground. It runs directly between LaGuardia and JFK with a few Manhattan stops. Tickets are about $17 to $20.
It takes roughly an hour, give or take traffic. The plus side: luggage storage, a straightforward route. The downside: the schedule. Buses only run between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., every 30 minutes. Land outside those hours and this option vanishes.
Still, for solo travelers looking to save money without hauling bags through subway turnstiles, this can be a solid pick.
Ride-Sharing (Uber and Lyft)
Open your phone, tap a button, and in theory a car shows up. Uber and Lyft make transfers simple—most of the time. Prices swing anywhere between $35 and $70. That range depends on time of day, demand, and how much surge pricing kicks in.
Caution: pickup zones at LaGuardia aren’t always where you think. With all the construction, designated spots sometimes change, which can mean an unexpected walk with luggage. And yes, surge pricing is real. Land around 5 p.m. on a weekday and you may end up paying as much as a private JFK car service.
That said, if you hit an off-peak window, ridesharing can be a comfortable middle-ground.
Standard Taxi Service
Ah, the yellow cab. They’re still lined up outside LaGuardia terminals, ready to go. No app, no pre-booking. Just hop in and head out.
Fares usually fall between $40 and $65 plus tolls and tip. Travel time is 30 to 50 minutes if traffic is reasonable. It can stretch longer during rush hour. One catch: since it’s metered, the price climbs the longer you sit in traffic. Not exactly fun if the Grand Central is crawling.
Taxis work well for solo travelers or people who don’t mind rolling the dice on price. They’re reliable in availability, though wait times at the taxi stand can get annoying at peak hours.
Private Car Service from LaGuardia to JFK
Now we move into the smoother options. Booking a LaGuardia airport car service gives you a professional driver, predictable pricing, and no surprises. Someone meets you at your terminal, helps with luggage, and gets you to JFK without detours.
Average cost: $90 to $140 depending on vehicle. Sedans are cheaper, SUVs more expensive. Travel time runs about 30 to 45 minutes in normal conditions.
The benefit? Reliability. No waiting in lines. No surge pricing. If you’re a family with kids, a business traveler on a schedule, or just someone who hates uncertainty, this is a strong option.
Why consider a private car service?
- Flat rates, even on holidays and late nights—no worrying about meter creep or surprise fees.
- Door-to-door convenience: Get picked up right at your terminal and dropped directly at JFK, luggage assistance included.
- Professional drivers: Expect courteous, experienced chauffeurs who know the airport shuffle and city traffic inside and out.
- Flexible vehicle choices: Whether you need a sedan, SUV, minivan, or even a stretch limo, there’s a car to fit your crew and your mood.
- Family- and pet-friendly: Child seats, extra space, and pet allowances are usually just a request away.
- Stress-free policies: Many services let you cancel up to 48 hours before your ride without penalty.
- Safe, easy payment: Book online and pay securely—no scrambling for cash or worrying about card readers.
- 24/7 support: Most reputable companies offer round-the-clock customer service, so you’re never left in the lurch.
Executive and Black Car Services
At the top end, you have executive car service and black car service. Think luxury sedans or SUVs, professional chauffeurs, water bottles in the backseat, sometimes Wi-Fi.
Rates start at $120 and can climb higher depending on the vehicle. The ride itself is similar to standard private cars—30 to 45 minutes if traffic cooperates—but the experience is smoother. You’re paying for comfort, privacy, and the assurance that everything runs on your terms.
This is the go-to for corporate clients, VIPs, or anyone who wants zero stress during an airport connection.
What About Renting a Car?
Technically, yes—you can rent a car at LaGuardia and drive yourself to JFK. Rental agencies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise all have counters at the airport. But let’s talk practicality: for a quick airport-to-airport hop, renting isn’t usually your best bet.
First, consider the logistics. Picking up the car, navigating unfamiliar city traffic, and then finding your way into JFK’s return lot all eats into your time—especially with New York signage and perpetual construction. You’ll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card (no surprises there), plus be prepared for one-way drop-off fees that can add up fast.
That said, if you’re traveling with a group, lugging major baggage, or planning to stop somewhere in the city along the way, a rental might make sense. But for most folks just looking to transfer between airports, other options are usually simpler, less stressful, and—ironically—faster.
Travel Time and Cost Comparison LGA to JFK
| Option | Average Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Transit (Bus + Subway) | $2.90–$5.80 | 75–90 mins | Travelers with light luggage, long layovers |
| Express Shuttle Bus | $17–$20 | ~60 mins | Budget-conscious passengers |
| Uber / Lyft | $35–$70 | 30–50 mins | Flexible travelers, off-peak hours |
| Taxi | $40–$65 | 30–50 mins | Solo travelers, last-minute rides |
| Private Car / Chauffeur | $90–$140 | 30–45 mins | Families, business travelers, late-night arrivals |
| Executive and Black Car | $120+ | 30–45 mins | Premium travelers, corporate clients |
Getting from LGA to JFK: What to Expect
Depending on your choice of transportation and the ever-changing New York City traffic, the journey between LaGuardia (LGA) and John F. Kennedy (JFK) airports can take anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes. Here’s a closer look at the main options:
- Express Shuttle BusThe Express Shuttle Bus offers a direct and affordable ride, averaging $17–$20 with departures every 30 minutes between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Typical travel time is about 60 minutes, making it a solid option for those keeping an eye on both time and budget.
- TaxisMetered taxis are available at every LGA terminal. Expect to pay $40–$65, with average ride times of 30–50 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are a reliable choice for solo travelers or anyone catching a last-minute flight.
- Uber & LyftRidesharing apps like Uber and Lyft are easy to use at both airports. Fares range from $35–$70, with travel times usually clocking in at 30–50 minutes. Prices and wait times can fluctuate based on traffic and time of day, so this is ideal for those seeking flexibility.
- Public TransitWhile public transit is the most economical choice ($2.90–$5.80), it’s also the slowest—expect at least 75–90 minutes, and you’ll need to switch between buses and subways. Be prepared for multiple transfers and know that there’s no direct train service between LGA and JFK. This route is best suited for travelers with light luggage and plenty of time to spare.
- Private Car, Chauffeur, and Executive Car ServicesFor those seeking comfort, privacy, or traveling in groups, private and executive car options are available, ranging from $90 to $140 and up. These rides get you across town in 30–45 minutes and are perfect for families, business travelers, or those arriving late at night.
Travel Tip: NYC traffic can be unpredictable—always allow extra time, especially during rush hour or bad weather. If you’re carrying lots of luggage or traveling with kids, consider a private transfer for the most hassle-free experience.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer in 2025
Even though LaGuardia and JFK are only about 16 kilometers apart, the journey between these two major New York City airports can feel like an odyssey if you’re not prepared. LaGuardia, tucked into East Elmhurst, Queens, is a major gateway for both domestic and international travelers, and traffic between these busy hubs is as legendary as the city itself. To keep your transfer stress-free, planning ahead is absolutely key.
- Always allow more time than you think. Roadwork and traffic in Queens are unpredictable.
- Book ahead if you want private or black car service. It locks in availability and pricing.
- Try to avoid rush hour if you can. Morning 7–9 a.m. and evening 4–7 p.m. are slow.
- Double-check pickup zones. At LaGuardia, they’ve moved several times due to ongoing terminal changes.
- If you’re price shopping, don’t forget Newark. Sometimes flights are cheaper through there, and you can arrange a Newark car service instead.
Connecting Flights and Travel Planning
Airlines usually build in some buffer for connections across airports, but you still want at least three to four hours when your trip is LGA to JFK. That includes travel, check-in, and security lines.
To guarantee a seamless connection, make sure you have scheduled your LGA to JFK transfer well in advance, especially during busy travel seasons or holidays. This gives you a better chance against delays, roadwork, and the changing pickup zones. With some planning and flexibility, your LGA to JFK trip can be part of your New York adventure instead of a stressful rush.
Arrive early? The airport has lounges, dining, and even nap pods to pass the time.
Final Thoughts
Transferring between LGA to JFK is not seamless, but it is not impossible either. Once you know the options, whether that is spending a few dollars on public transit or booking a chauffeur, it comes down to balancing cost, time, and convenience.
If you want the cheapest ride, the subway and bus option is there. If you need predictability, private cars handle the trip with less stress. And if you land somewhere in between, taxis and rideshares cover the middle ground.
The key is simple. Plan ahead, give yourself buffer time, and match your LGA to JFK transfer to your travel style. Do that, and your LGA to JFK trip becomes just another step, not a stress point.
