So, you’ve just landed at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). You’ve got your bags, you’ve made it through the terminal, and now you’re facing the ultimate traveler’s puzzle: How do I get to Manhattan?

Newark is located in New Jersey, but it is often the most convenient airport for those staying on the West Side of Manhattan. Depending on your budget, how much luggage you have, and how much you hate traffic, there are four main ways to make the trek.

1. The Faster Way: NJ Transit Train

If you want to avoid the infamous New York City traffic, the train is your best friend. It is reliable, relatively fast, and usually the cheapest option for solo travelers.

• How it works: Take the AirTrain (the monorail that connects terminals) to the “Newark Liberty Airport Station.” From there, hop on an NJ Transit train heading toward New York Penn Station.
• Cost: Approximately $15.75 (this includes the AirTrain fee).
• Travel Time: About 45–60 minutes total.
• Pro-Tip: Make sure you get off at New York Penn Station (in Manhattan) and not Newark Penn Station (in New Jersey)! They sound similar, but they are very different places.

2. The Direct Way: Newark Airport Express Bus

If the idea of hauling your luggage through train stations and turnstiles sounds exhausting, the Express Bus is a great middle-ground. It’s a dedicated coach bus with storage underneath for your bags.

• How it works: The bus picks up passengers at every terminal (A, B, and C). It makes three major stops in Manhattan: Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Station.
• Cost: About $18.70 for a one-way ticket (discounted round-trips are usually available).
• Travel Time: 45–90 minutes, depending heavily on the Lincoln Tunnel traffic.
• Pro-Tip: This is the best choice if your hotel is in Midtown East or near Grand Central, as it saves you from needing a second subway ride.

How Early to Get to Airport for Flight?

3. The Easy Way: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

For those traveling with a group of three or more, or anyone who just wants to go door-to-door, a car is the most comfortable choice.

• How it works: Follow the signs for “Ground Transportation” to the official taxi stand or the designated Rideshare pickup zone.
• Cost: Expect to pay between $70 and $120. Remember to factor in tolls (about $16–$20) and a tip for the driver.
• Travel Time: 30 minutes on a perfect night; 90 minutes during rush hour.
• Warning: Unlike JFK Airport, Newark does not have a flat rate to Manhattan. The meter will run, and traffic will make the price go up.

4. The Budget Way: Bus + PATH Train

If you are a backpacker on a strict budget and don’t mind a little adventure, you can save some cash by using local transit.

• How it works: Take the #62 NJ Transit Bus from the airport to Newark Penn Station. From there, transfer to the PATH Train which will take you to either the World Trade Center (Lower Manhattan) or 33rd St (Midtown).
• Cost: Roughly $5–$7 total.
• Travel Time: 75–90 minutes.
• Pro-Tip: Only do this if you have very light luggage and plenty of patience!

Learn About MSP Airport

Comparison at a Glance

Method	Best For…	Cost (Approx.)	Speed
Train	Avoiding traffic & solo travelers	$16	Fast/Consistent
Express Bus	Midtown hotels & heavy bags	$19	Medium
Taxi/Uber	Groups & door-to-door ease	$80 – $120	Traffic Dependent
PATH Train	Ultra-budget travelers	$6	Slow

Final Answer Which one should you choose?

• If you’re alone and it’s rush hour (8 AM or 5 PM): Take the Train.
• If you have 3 people and 4 suitcases: Take an Uber/Taxi.
• If you’re staying near Times Square: Take the Express Bus.

No matter which way you choose, you’ll be in the heart of the Big Apple before you know it. Welcome to New York!