How to get from New York JFK to Long Island City and Queens?

First things first: New York’s JFK Airport sits in Queens, far to the east of Manhattan, along Jamaica Bay. Queens is no small neighborhood—this borough covers nearly 283 km² (109 sq mi). If you’re staying in Queens, here are your 4 options for reaching your accommodation.

1/ The AirTrain and Subway

• Combining the AirTrain and subway is the most budget-friendly option. The AirTrain is an elevated rail system connecting JFK’s terminals to two subway stations in Queens. To reach Queens, take the AirTrain toward Jamaica Center station, the hub for lines E, J, and Z. From there, take the E line to your destination in Queens. Cost per person: $5 for the AirTrain and $2.75 for the subway.
• If you’re heading to Long Island City, note that this neighborhood sits at the western edge of Queens, along the East River, directly opposite JFK Airport. Long Island City is served by two E line stops: Queens Plaza and Court Sq.
• Keep in mind that connections between the E line and other lines are poor or nonexistent. You cannot, for example, transfer from the E to the F line. Before you set off with your luggage, double-check where your accommodation is located.

2/ Taxi or Ride-Share

• This is the most convenient option: you get in a taxi or ride-share vehicle and it takes you directly to your address. Of course, this comes at a price.
• A ride to Long Island City runs roughly $60–70 including a 20% tip. Unlike Manhattan, there’s no flat rate for trips between JFK and Queens—the meter determines your fare. The final cost depends on traffic, delays, and time spent on the road.
• Tip: ride-share prices match taxi fares. The difference? Taxis are officially licensed, so the risk of overcharging is lower than with some ride-share services that deliberately take longer routes to inflate the fare.

3/ Private Car Transfer with Driver

• For a comfortable, personalized transfer, book your private car in advance. Visit the private car transfer page to arrange your JFK-to-Queens or JFK-to-Long Island City ride. For your return journey, book your driver on the return private car transfer page.
• This service adapts to your needs: choose the vehicle type that suits your group size. You can book a sedan for up to 3 people, a minivan for up to 6, or a minibus for groups up to 14. Another option: a limousine straight out of the movies, seating up to 7 passengers.
• In practice, your driver waits at the baggage hall exit holding a sign with your name. Prices start at around $200 for a sedan transfer, plus a 20% tip for the driver.