New York JFK (JFK) Newark Liberty (EWR)
JFK to EWR is around 35 km but crosses two boroughs + the Hudson River — traffic through the Lincoln or Holland tunnels adds unpredictable time. Public transit requires 3+ transfers.
Transfer options
Stay overnight in New York?
If your connection is 8+ hours or overnight, a hotel between the two airports beats an airport chair.
Frequently asked questions
How long does JFK to EWR take?
Off-peak: 60-75 minutes by taxi. Peak or tunnel congestion: 90-120 minutes. Public transit: 110-160 minutes with 3 transfers.
What is the cheapest way from JFK to Newark?
AirTrain JFK to Jamaica ($8.15) + LIRR to Penn Station ($10) + PATH to Newark Penn ($3) + AirTrain Newark ($8.25 included). Total around $25-30. But NYC Airporter shuttle at $35-50 with 1 transfer is much simpler.
How much time between JFK and EWR?
Minimum 4 hours. This is the toughest NYC inter-airport transfer — tunnel traffic can be extreme. International-to-international: 5 hours.
Are JFK and EWR the same airport system?
Both are Port Authority (PANYNJ), but not connected. Airline tickets that transit through both count as separate legs — check bag through only if same airline + connecting itinerary.