If you’re flying into Newark Liberty International Airport, welcome — you’ve officially landed just outside New York City. Newark’s technically in New Jersey, about 16 miles (26km) from Midtown Manhattan, but for most travelers it’s all part of the same trip. The airport’s huge — three terminals (A, B, and C), all linked by this small train called the AirTrain that runs day and night.
Now, getting from Newark to Manhattan might look confusing at first, but once you know your options, it’s really not. You’ve got a few ways to go — train, bus, taxi, shuttle, or even local transit — and each one fits a different kind of traveler. Families usually want comfort, backpackers go cheap, people with big suitcases want something direct.
Down below, you’ll find every route explained clearly — real prices for 2025, travel times, where to buy tickets, where to get on and where to get off. Nothing fancy, just real info to help you reach the city without overthinking it.
Overview of the Best Ways to Get from Newark Airport to Manhattan
| Option | Price (One Way) | Time | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train + AirTrain | $17.00 | 35–50 min | Solo or couples | Fast, reliable, no traffic |
| Express Bus | $22.50 | 45–60 min | Families | Direct to Midtown |
| Taxi/Rideshare | $70–$100+ | 40–90 min | Comfort seekers | Door-to-door |
| Shuttle | $34–$40 | 60–90 min | Groups | Budget private ride |
| PATH + Bus | $4.80 | 70–90 min | Backpackers | Slowest but cheapest |
| Private Transfer | $80–$130+ | 40–90 min | Families & groups | Pre-booked, stress-free |
NJ Transit Train + AirTrain Newark from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Where do the trains stop? All NJ Transit trains from Newark Airport stop at New York Penn Station (34th Street, Midtown Manhattan). From there, you can walk or take the subway anywhere in the city.
Where do you get on? Inside the airport, follow the red signs for AirTrain Newark from your terminal (A, B, or C). The AirTrain takes you to Newark Liberty International Airport Station, where you transfer to an NJ Transit train heading to New York Penn Station.
How much do AirTrain and NJ Transit cost? The combined ticket costs around $17 one-way in 2025. The AirTrain portion ($8.50) is already included in that price if you buy the correct ticket to or from “Newark Airport.”
Where do you buy the tickets? Buy your ticket from the NJ Transit ticket machines inside the terminals, at the airport rail station, or through the NJ Transit mobile app. Make sure it says “From Newark Airport” or “To Newark Airport.”
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone traveling light who wants a quick and reliable route.
Newark Airport Express Bus from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Easiest direct ride into Midtown
This is a good option if you don’t want to deal with train transfers or carrying bags through stations. The Newark Airport Express bus runs straight from all airport terminals to Midtown Manhattan.
Where does the bus stop in Manhattan? It stops at three popular Midtown locations:
- Grand Central Station (41st Street between Park & Lexington Ave)
- Bryant Park (42nd Street & 5th Avenue)
- Port Authority Bus Terminal (41st Street by 8th Avenue)
Where do you get on? Every terminal (A, B, and C) has a clearly marked stop outside the baggage claim area. Look for the green Newark Airport Express signs or ask the staff — they’ll point you in the right direction.
How much does it cost? A one-way ticket costs $22.50, and a round-trip ticket is $38.50 in 2025. Children under 5 ride free if seated on an adult’s lap. All other passengers, including children 6 and up, pay the standard fare. Prices may vary slightly depending on route, time, or booking method.
Where do you buy the tickets? You can buy them online, at the ticket counter, or directly from the driver. Contactless payments and cards are accepted.
Book a shuttle bus to/from Newark Airport online
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Families, travelers with multiple bags, or anyone staying near Grand Central, Bryant Park, or Times Square who wants a direct ride.
Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Best for comfort and no transfers
If you just want to hop in a car and go straight to your hotel, a taxi or rideshare is the easiest door-to-door option.
Where do taxis and rideshares pick up? All terminals have ground transportation zones outside baggage claim. Follow the yellow “Taxi” signs or look for “App Rides” for Uber and Lyft.
Where do they drop off? Anywhere you want in Manhattan — straight to your hotel, apartment, or Airbnb.
How much does it cost? Expect to pay between $70 and $100+, depending on where you’re going and how bad the traffic is. Tolls and tips are extra. There’s no flat fare from Newark to Manhattan like there is from JFK.
How to pay or estimate fare? Taxis take both cash and cards. Uber and Lyft show the full price before you confirm the ride.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Families, older travelers, people with mobility issues, or anyone arriving late and just wanting a smooth ride to their hotel.
Shared Shuttle Service from Newark Airport to Manhattan
Good balance between price and convenience
If you want a direct ride but don’t want to pay taxi prices, book a shared shuttle. Companies like GO Airlink NYC and SuperShuttle operate daily between Newark Airport and Manhattan.
Where does it stop? They’ll drop you off at your hotel or nearby area in Manhattan, often shared with a few other travelers heading in the same direction.
Where do you get on? Pick-up areas are right outside your terminal. Look for “Shuttle” or “Ground Transportation” signs. After you book, the company will email instructions about where to meet your driver.
How much does it cost? Prices start at $34–$40 per person in 2025. It depends on your drop-off area and how many passengers are sharing.
How to book? Book online before your flight or at the airport desks. You’ll get a confirmation email with your pickup point.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Small groups, budget travelers, and people who want comfort without paying for a private car.
PATH + NJ Transit Bus (Cheapest Way)
Only if you’re on a very tight budget
This is the lowest-cost option, but it’s slow and involves multiple transfers. It’s fine if you know your way around or don’t mind extra steps.
Where does it stop? You’ll end up at either World Trade Center or 33rd Street in Manhattan depending on which PATH line you take.
Where do you get on? Take the NJ Transit bus #62 from Newark Airport to Newark Penn Station, then transfer to the PATH train heading into Manhattan.
How much does it cost? The NJ Transit bus is $1.80, and the PATH train adds $3.00, for a total of about $4.80 one-way.
Where to buy tickets? Buy your bus ticket directly from the driver (cash or card) and your PATH ticket at vending machines in the station.
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, or anyone on a very tight budget who doesn’t mind taking their time.
Private Transfer from Newark Airport to Manhattan
What is it? You book a private car in advance. A professional driver meets you at EWR and drives you directly to your Manhattan address.
Where do they pick you up / where do they drop off?
- Pickup: Usually inside the arrivals hall or outside baggage claim. Your driver may hold a sign with your name.
- Drop-off: Right at your hotel, apartment, or doorstep in Manhattan (no transfers).
How much does it cost (2025)?
- Starting around $80 to $130 for typical private car service (depending on destination, vehicle type, and provider)
- Luxury options (SUV, executive cars) can cost $160 to $210+
- Some providers list ~$90 as a low starting fare for basic private transfers
- These fares often include tolls and driver waiting charges, but always confirm details with the provider.
Where can you book it?
- Online, through transfer companies or aggregator platforms (Viator, GetYourGuide, Klook)
- Direct with local car services (Blacklane, limo services)
- Hotel concierge or travel agents can also arrange one for you
Pros:
Cons:
Best for: Private transfers are ideal for families traveling with several suitcases, visitors arriving late at night or very early in the morning, and anyone who simply prefers a smooth, direct ride without worrying about public transportation or multiple transfers. They’re also a good choice for small groups who value comfort, privacy, and door-to-door convenience.
🧳 Final Tips Before You Go
- Travel time: Expect 40–60 minutes for most routes, longer if traffic is heavy.
- Hours: All services operate every day; only the frequency changes overnight.
- Frequency: Around every 20–30 minutes for buses and trains.
- Luggage: The bus and taxis are easiest for heavy bags. The train works fine if you can manage your luggage yourself.
- Accessibility: AirTrain, NJ Transit, and the Airport Express Bus are wheelchair-accessible.
Final Thoughts
No matter which option you choose, the good news is that Newark Airport connects well with Manhattan — you just have to pick what fits your situation. If you want to save money and avoid traffic, go with the NJ Transit train. If you’ve got kids and suitcases, the Express Bus is a stress-free ride right into Midtown. And if you just want to drop your bags and relax, a taxi or Uber is worth the extra cash.
Once you’re in Manhattan, the subway, buses, and ferries can take you anywhere — and if you need help exploring, check out our other NYC travel guides for easy routes, hidden gems, and local tips.
USA+ eSIM Plans
If you want total peace of mind during your New York trip, consider Saily’s USA Unlimited eSIM plan. For around $48.99, you get unlimited data for your stay — that’s roughly $1.60 per day for nonstop connectivity across major U.S. networks, including Verizon and AT&T.
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