5 Options to Get from JFK to LGA Airport

Transferring between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is one of the most common airport-to-airport journeys in New York City. While the two airports are located in the same borough of Queens, there is no direct train or airport shuttle connecting them. As a result, travelers must choose between taxis, rideshares, private car services, shuttles, or public transportation—each with different trade-offs in time, cost, and comfort.

This guide explains five ways to get from JFK to LGA, including travel time, distance, pricing, passenger capacity, and which option works best for different travelers. Whether you are catching a tight connection, traveling with luggage, or looking for the cheapest route, this article provides a complete answer with no information gaps.

1. Taxi (Yellow Cab)

Taking a yellow NYC taxi is one of the most straightforward ways to travel from JFK to LaGuardia Airport. Taxis are available 24/7 at designated taxi stands outside every JFK terminal, so no advance booking or app is required. You simply join the line and are assigned the next available cab.

A standard yellow cab comfortably carries up to four passengers, with space for carry-on luggage and one or two larger suitcases. Travel time usually ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During weekday rush hours or severe weather, the trip can extend to 90 minutes.

Taxi fares are metered, and the typical cost from JFK to LGA is around $50–$70, including tolls. Gratuity is not included and is customarily added by the passenger. Because pricing is time- and distance-based, heavy traffic can increase the final fare.

The biggest advantage of a taxi is simplicity. There are no transfers, no navigation, and no waiting for multiple pickups. However, vehicle quality can vary, and pricing is less predictable compared to flat-rate services.

Best for: first-time NYC visitors, travelers with luggage, and passengers who want a direct, no-planning-required transfer between airports.

2. Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft offer a flexible and app-based way to get from JFK to LaGuardia Airport. Both services operate at JFK using designated pickup zones near each terminal, which are clearly marked but may require a short walk.

Rideshare vehicles typically accommodate up to four passengers for standard rides, while larger options (UberXL or Lyft XL) can carry up to six passengers, making them suitable for small groups. Average travel time is similar to taxis, usually 30–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pricing varies based on demand. In normal conditions, fares often range from $45–$85, but surge pricing can significantly increase costs during peak travel times, holidays, or bad weather. Unlike taxis, fares are shown upfront in the app, though last-minute changes can occur.

The main advantages of rideshare services are convenience, cashless payment, and vehicle choice. However, drivers may cancel rides, and surge pricing can make this option less reliable for tight connections.

Best for: app-savvy travelers, small groups comparing prices in real time, and passengers who prefer digital booking over street-hail taxis.

3. Private Car Service / Chauffeur

A private car service or chauffeur is the most reliable and controlled way to travel from JFK to LaGuardia Airport. This option is pre-booked in advance and provides a professional driver, scheduled pickup, and a fixed-price transfer.

Passenger capacity depends on the vehicle type. Luxury sedans typically accommodate 1–3 passengers, SUVs can carry up to 6–7 passengers, and larger vans are available for families or groups with extra luggage. Travel time usually ranges from 30 to 50 minutes, with drivers actively monitoring traffic conditions.

Pricing is flat-rate, meaning traffic delays do not increase the cost. Services often include flight tracking, terminal-specific pickup, and assistance with luggage. Because the ride is scheduled, there is no risk of driver cancellations or surge pricing.

The main benefit of a private car service is peace of mind. Everything is arranged in advance, which is especially important for airport-to-airport connections where delays can result in missed flights.

Best for: business travelers, international passengers, families with child seats, and anyone prioritizing punctuality, comfort, and predictability over the lowest price.

4. Shuttle Service

Airport shuttle services offer shared transportation between JFK and LaGuardia using passenger vans. These services group multiple travelers heading in the same direction, making them a mid-range option between private cars and public transit.

Shuttle vans usually carry 8–14 passengers, depending on the vehicle. Because the ride is shared, travel time is longer—typically 60 to 90 minutes—and can increase due to multiple pickups or drop-offs. Schedules may be limited compared to taxis or rideshares.

The average cost is around $30–$45 per person, making shuttles cheaper than taxis for solo travelers but less cost-effective for groups. Importantly, there is no free official shuttle between JFK and LGA; all shuttle services are paid and privately operated.

Shuttles reduce the need to navigate public transportation, but they sacrifice speed and flexibility. Waiting times and detours are common, which can be risky for travelers with tight flight connections.

Best for: solo travelers with flexible schedules who want a lower-cost alternative to taxis without handling subway or bus transfers.

5. Public Transportation (Bus + Subway)

Public transportation is the cheapest way to get from JFK to LaGuardia Airport, but also the most complex and time-consuming. There is no direct train connecting the two airports.

A typical route involves taking the AirTrain at JFK, transferring to the subway, and then connecting to a bus—most commonly the Q70 SBS bus—to reach LaGuardia. Depending on the route and transfer timing, the journey usually takes 75 to 120 minutes.

The total cost is approximately $11, including the AirTrain fare and standard MTA subway or bus fare. Trains and buses run frequently, but navigating multiple transfers can be challenging, especially for visitors unfamiliar with New York’s transit system.

This option is physically demanding if you have large luggage, and delays can occur due to service changes or congestion. It is not recommended for travelers with tight schedules or connecting flights.

Best for: budget-conscious travelers with light luggage, flexible timing, and comfort navigating NYC public transit.

What Is the Best Way to Travel from JFK to LGA Airport?

The best way to travel from JFK to LaGuardia Airport is by a direct car service—either a taxi, rideshare, or a pre-booked private car—because these options offer door-to-door travel with no transfers and the shortest, most predictable travel time. Public transportation is cheaper but significantly slower and less practical for travelers with luggage or tight flight connections.

Why Private Car Service Is the Best Choice for This Route?

A private car service is the best choice for the JFK to LGA route because it offers fixed pricing, guaranteed pickup times, and professional drivers. Unlike taxis or rideshares, private services eliminate surge pricing and last-minute cancellations. Drivers monitor traffic and flight status, making this option ideal for travelers with tight schedules or connecting flights.

Why Is Ride Soho the Best Way?

Ride Soho provides a dependable JFK to LGA transfer with flat-rate pricing, professional chauffeurs, and real-time flight tracking. With luxury sedans and SUVs, Ride Soho ensures timely pickups, comfortable travel, and a stress-free airport connection. This level of reliability is especially valuable when transferring between airports in busy New York City.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get from JFK to LaGuardia Airport?

The fastest way to get from JFK to LaGuardia Airport is by a direct car service, such as a private chauffeur, taxi, or rideshare, because these options travel nonstop without transfers. In light traffic, the drive can take as little as 30 minutes. Traffic conditions on New York City roads are the main variable. During rush hours, accidents, or bad weather, travel time can increase significantly. Choosing a driver who monitors traffic in real time helps reduce delays.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get from John F. Kennedy to LGA Airport?

The cheapest way to travel from JFK to LGA is by public transportation using the AirTrain, subway, and bus combination. This option typically costs around $11 total. Although it is budget-friendly, it involves multiple transfers and longer travel time. It is best suited for travelers with light luggage and flexible schedules, as it is not ideal for tight connections or passengers unfamiliar with NYC transit.

Is There a Direct Train from JFK to LGA?

No, there is no direct train between JFK and LaGuardia Airport. JFK is connected to the subway system via the AirTrain, while LaGuardia relies on buses for public transit access. Travelers must combine AirTrain, subway, and bus routes to reach LGA, which makes this option slower and more complex than direct vehicle transportation.

How Long Does It Take from JFK to LGA?

The average travel time from JFK to LGA is between 30 and 60 minutes by car. In light traffic, the trip can be completed in about 30–40 minutes. During peak rush hours or severe weather, travel time may extend to 90 minutes. Public transportation typically takes much longer due to transfers and waiting times.

What Is the Distance from JFK to LGA Airport?

The distance between JFK and LaGuardia Airport is approximately 10 to 11 miles. Despite the short distance, traffic congestion in Queens and along major expressways often affects travel time. The actual route distance may vary slightly depending on the driver’s chosen path and traffic conditions at the time of travel.