JFK to LGA: how to transfer in New York
Best way to get from John F. Kennedy to LaGuardia — fares, times, and what to avoid.
NYC Airporter shuttle bus (or Q70-SBS + subway combo)
Shuttle is one seat; subway is A/E→Jackson Hts→Q70-SBS to LGA (with luggage, plan carefully).
There is no direct train or subway line between JFK and LGA. Anyone selling a 'JFK-LGA rail transfer' is scamming you.
Other ways to make the transfer
Uber / Lyft / Curb
Fastest off-peak. BQE and Grand Central Pkwy jam 3–7pm.
Yellow taxi (metered, no flat rate)
No flat fare exists JFK↔LGA. Insist on meter.
Before you go
- Van Wyck (from JFK) and Grand Central Pkwy (to LGA) are the two chokepoints
- For tight connections, take a rideshare — public transit costs 90 min door-to-door minimum
Full airport guides
This guide covers the transfer in both directions — the route, fares, and times are the same JFK ↔ LGA.
FAQ
What's the fastest way from JFK to LGA?
NYC Airporter shuttle bus (or Q70-SBS + subway combo) — about 60–90 min for US$20 (shuttle) / US$2.90 (subway route). Shuttle is one seat; subway is A/E→Jackson Hts→Q70-SBS to LGA (with luggage, plan carefully).
How much time should I leave between flights at JFK and LGA?
We recommend at least 3.5 hours door to door, accounting for baggage claim, transfer, check-in, and security.
How far is LGA from JFK?
About 20 km across New York.
What should I avoid when transferring JFK to LGA?
There is no direct train or subway line between JFK and LGA. Anyone selling a 'JFK-LGA rail transfer' is scamming you.