7 Ways to Get From Newark Airport To LaGuardia Airport

Travelling between Newark Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is one of the most common airport-to-airport transfers in New York. Because these airports sit on opposite sides of Manhattan, choosing the right transportation method matters for timing, comfort, and cost. Whether you’re connecting flights, travelling internationally, or moving between terminals on a tight schedule, there are several ways to make the journey smoothly.

Below, you’ll find all seven transportation options, along with cost ranges, travel times, pros, cons, and expert insights to help you choose the best method for your trip.

1. Train (NJ Transit)

Travelling by train is the cheapest method to get from Newark Airport to LaGuardia Airport, but it requires multiple transfers. You’ll begin at EWR’s AirTrain station, continue to NJ Transit, switch to the subway, and finally take an airport bus to LGA. This option is best for budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind carrying luggage through different transit systems.

To begin, take the AirTrain Newark from your terminal to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station. From there, board an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station, one of Manhattan’s busiest hubs. Upon arrival, follow signs for the subway and take either the E, R, or 7 train toward Queens. Your goal is to reach Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue or 74th Street–Broadway, where the final connection happens.

Your last step is the Q70 SBS (Select Bus Service) LaGuardia Link, which provides a direct route to Terminals B, C, and D of LaGuardia Airport. The Q70 is designed for airport travellers and includes luggage racks, fast boarding, and dedicated bus lanes. This multi-stage trip typically takes 90–110 minutes, depending on how quickly you make each connection.

The main advantage of the train option is affordability, with transfers typically costing around $17–$20 total. However, it may not be practical during peak hours or for travellers with heavy baggage. If you’re comfortable navigating different systems, it’s a reliable and cost-effective choice for reaching LaGuardia.

2. Bus Options (Direct & Connection Routes)

A fully direct, one-seat bus between Newark Airport and LaGuardia Airport does not exist, but there are bus-based routes that offer an affordable mixed-transfer solution. The most common is the Newark Airport Express Bus paired with the NYC subway and the Q70 LaGuardia Link.

Begin by taking the Newark Airport Express Bus from any EWR terminal to Manhattan. These buses run to Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal. They operate frequently and accommodate luggage, making them convenient for airport travellers.

Once in Manhattan, transfer to the subway. You may take the E, R, or 7 train, depending on your arrival stop. Your destination is the Jackson Heights transit hub, where you will connect to the familiar Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link. This final bus brings you directly to LGA terminals.

Because the Express Bus is comfortable, air-conditioned, and travel-friendly, many passengers prefer bus-based routes over the train for smooth luggage handling. Travel time averages 90–120 minutes, depending on traffic as you enter Manhattan. Costs are usually between $20–$25 total, making this a balanced option for travellers seeking an affordable yet straightforward route.

3. Taxi

A taxi offers one of the most convenient ways to get from Newark Airport to LaGuardia Airport. You can simply exit your terminal, walk to the designated taxi stand, and take a cab directly to LGA. There’s no app, no scheduling, and no transfers—perfect for travellers who want simplicity.

Newark Airport taxis are regulated by the Port Authority and allowed to travel into New York City. The fare system includes a meter rate, airport fees, and tolls, which usually results in a cost between $120–$160. Travel time is anywhere from 45–70 minutes, depending on traffic at Manhattan crossings such as the Lincoln Tunnel or Queens Midtown Tunnel.

One advantage of taxis is predictability. You always know a cab will be available, even during late-night hours. They also handle luggage well and offer professional, licensed drivers. However, competitive pricing from rideshare apps and private car services has reduced taxi demand slightly in recent years.

Travellers who value ease, speed, and curb-to-curb service often find taxis a dependable option for airport-to-airport transfers.

4. Airport Shuttle Services (Shared Transfers)

Airport shuttles used to be one of the most popular ways to travel between New York’s airports, especially when shared ride van companies were common. Today, availability is more limited, but you can still find shared airport shuttle services that operate between EWR, Manhattan, and LGA.

These shuttles are ideal for solo travellers looking to save money while avoiding the complexity of public transit. With shared shuttles, you’ll ride with other passengers who are also heading to LaGuardia or nearby Queens destinations. Because the vehicle makes multiple stops, expect longer travel times—usually 70–120 minutes depending on how many passengers are scheduled.

Advantages include lower cost, luggage assistance, and the comfort of a van or shuttle bus. The downside is flexibility. Many services operate on fixed schedules or require advance reservations. You may also wait longer at pickup points as the shuttle gathers its passengers.

Shared transfers remain a mid-budget solution—less costly than taxis or private cars, more convenient than trains or buses. If timing aligns with your flight schedule, it can be an efficient airport transfer method.

5. Private Car Service (Best Option)

A private car service is widely considered the best overall option for travelling from Newark Airport to LaGuardia Airport. It offers the ideal combination of convenience, comfort, safety, and reliability—especially for travellers who are on tight schedules or want a stress-free connection.

With private car service, a professional driver meets you at the terminal, assists with luggage, and provides a direct, smooth ride to LaGuardia. You can choose your vehicle type—sedan, SUV, luxury car, executive vehicle, or even a sprinter van for group transfers. Private transfers eliminate the need to handle subway stairs, bus stops, or train platforms.

One of the biggest advantages is flat-rate pricing. While taxis and rideshares fluctuate with traffic or surge pricing, a private car service gives you a clear, upfront cost. Travel time remains consistent, generally around 45–60 minutes, depending on road conditions.

This option is highly popular with business travellers, families, first-time visitors, and international travellers connecting between major flights. Professional chauffeurs understand airport routes, traffic patterns, and terminal layouts, ensuring a reliable and seamless experience. Overall, private car service stands out as the safest, most comfortable, and most time-efficient method for moving between airports.

6. Uber/Lyft Rideshare Services

Uber and Lyft are among the most in-demand services for airport-to-airport travel in New York. These rideshare apps provide an easy booking experience, direct pickup at Newark Airport, and drop-off at any LaGuardia terminal. Travellers like knowing the estimated fare beforehand and tracking their driver in real time.

Costs fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and traffic conditions. Typical pricing ranges from $80 to $140, though surge pricing during peak flight hours can raise these numbers significantly. Travel time averages 45–70 minutes, similar to taxis and private cars.

Uber and Lyft offer multiple vehicle categories, such as UberX, Comfort, XL, and Black, giving travellers flexibility based on group size and luggage. The downside is unpredictability. During peak hours or inclement weather, rideshare vehicles may be scarce, expensive, or delayed.

Despite this, many travellers prefer rideshares because they balance convenience and affordability. They are particularly suitable for solo travellers, tech-savvy passengers, and those who want a hassle-free airport connection without paying premium private car prices.

7. Rental Car

A rental car is the least common method for travelling between Newark Airport and LaGuardia Airport. While rental cars provide complete flexibility and control over the journey, they are typically unnecessary for point-to-point airport transfers.

Renting a vehicle requires picking up the car, completing paperwork, driving through Manhattan or via bridges and tunnels, then returning the car at LaGuardia’s rental center. This process adds significant time to your journey. Fuel charges, tolls, and rental fees often make the cost higher than taxis or rideshares.

Rental cars may be a reasonable choice if you plan to keep the vehicle for multiple days or continue travelling beyond LaGuardia. For simple airport-to-airport connections, more efficient options exist, and most travellers opt for alternatives.

What Is the Best Way to Travel From EWR to LGA?

The best and most reliable way to travel from Newark Airport (EWR) to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is by Private Car Service. It offers the fastest door-to-door travel time, guaranteed pickup, comfortable vehicles, luggage assistance, and fixed pricing without the delays or transfers required by public transport. Uber/Lyft is the second-best option for flexibility, while taxis offer simple curbside convenience. Public transit remains the cheapest but not ideal for airport-to-airport travel due to multiple connections.

Below is a detailed table comparing all major options based on cost, travel time, convenience, comfort, reliability, best for, and drawbacks.

Which Transportation Option Is Most Popular?

The most in-demand transportation options for EWR to LGA are:

1. Uber/Lyft Rideshare Services – popular for ease and real-time booking
2. Private Car Service – preferred for reliability, comfort, and flat-rate pricing
3. Taxi – convenient for immediate pickup
4. Shuttle Services – affordable but limited availability
5. Bus + Train – cheapest but least convenient

These choices reflect modern travel patterns, where travellers prioritize comfort, door-to-door service, and predictable timing.

Why Private Car Service Is the Best Choice for LGA to EWR?

Private car service stands out as the best option because it eliminates nearly all stress points associated with airport-to-airport travel. You enjoy a clean, comfortable vehicle, a professional driver, fixed pricing, and a seamless pickup experience. There’s no waiting, no transferring between transit systems, and no dealing with crowds or unpredictable delays.

It’s especially useful for families with children, business professionals, elderly travellers, or anyone carrying multiple bags. When time is tight or you want a guaranteed, smooth connection, private car service delivers the most dependable experience.

Why Ride Soho Is the Best Option?

Ride Soho provides a premium airport transfer experience built around customer comfort, punctuality, and professionalism. Their drivers know the fastest airport routes, assist with luggage, and maintain high service standards. Vehicles are modern, clean, and equipped for airport travel. Whether you’re connecting flights or travelling on business, Ride Soho ensures a timely, stress-free journey between Newark and LaGuardia.

Frequently Asked Questions