How to Save Money on Your Cab Ride
from JFK to Manhattan
When you land at JFK Airport in New York, the excitement of finally being in the Big Apple can quickly turn into confusion as you face the task of getting to Manhattan. Between the overwhelming options for transportation, fluctuating prices, and New York City’s famously unpredictable traffic, it can be tricky to know how to get the best value for your ride. The good news is, with a bit of preparation and awareness, you can easily avoid the pitfalls and ensure that your trip from JFK to Manhattan is smooth, safe, and cost-effective.
Happy male getting into a cab. Businessman entering a taxi on city street.
Here are the best tips for securing the best cab price and making your ride to Manhattan as hassle-free as possible.
1. Know the Flat Rate for Taxis
If you want to book a taxi from JFK to Manhattan then take advantage of our flat rate fare to save your money. As of 2024, all yellow taxis from JFK to any destination in Manhattan charge a set fee of $70. This fare includes all tolls, surcharges, and the mandatory $4.50 airport fee, so you don’t have to worry about being surprised by hidden charges.
This flat rate applies regardless of traffic conditions or how far you’re traveling within Manhattan, which is a huge benefit. Whether you’re heading to Times Square, the Lower East Side, or SoHo, you’ll pay the same $70 (plus tips).
However, keep in mind that tips are not included in the fare. Most drivers expect a gratuity of 10-20%, so you should factor in $7-$14 for a tip, bringing the total cost to about $77-$84. This can be much more predictable than ride-sharing fares, which can fluctuate based on demand.
2. Stick to Authorized Taxis
While the idea of saving money by hopping into a random car that offers you a ride might be tempting, it’s important to stick to licensed yellow taxis to avoid being scammed. JFK Airport is notorious for unofficial or “gypsy” cabs, which are not regulated and often charge inflated rates or take you on longer, unnecessary routes to drive up the price.
Authorized yellow cabs at JFK are lined up at designated taxi stands outside the terminals. These are the only legitimate taxis that should be used. All yellow cabs in New York City carry a medallion number visible on the hood of the car, which means they are licensed, insured, and adhere to city regulations. Avoid accepting offers from drivers who approach you inside the terminal — this is a surefire sign of an unofficial cab.
3. Consider Ride-Sharing Services
If you prefer a more modern and tech-friendly way to book your ride, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are great options. These services can be especially convenient if you’re traveling with luggage, as you can request a car directly to your terminal and track your ride in real-time.
However, while ride-sharing apps can be convenient, they are also subject to surge pricing. During busy hours or bad weather, Uber or Lyft fares can spike significantly. Depending on demand and traffic, you could pay anywhere from $60 to $90 for an Uber or Lyft ride from JFK to Manhattan. This is usually cheaper than a yellow taxi if surge pricing is not in effect, but it’s something to keep an eye on.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal with Ride-Sharing
- Check for surge pricing
Before confirming your ride, check the app for surge pricing. If prices are marked up significantly, you can choose to wait until they drop or consider other options.
- Look for discounts
Both Uber and Lyft often provide promotions for first-time users or for specific routes. Always check for available discounts or promo codes to save money..
4. Know the Most Common Routes
Familiarizing yourself with the common routes from JFK to Manhattan can help you ensure you’re not taken on an unnecessary detour, especially if you’re in a taxi. Most drivers will take one of the following routes:
- Via the Van Wyck Expressway
This is often the quickest route, especially if traffic is light.
- Via the Queens Midtown Tunnel or Brooklyn Battery Tunnel
Depending on where you’re headed in Manhattan, your driver may use one of these tunnels.
For ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, the route will be automatically calculated based on real-time traffic conditions. However, it doesn’t hurt to be aware of the typical routes to ensure your driver is taking the most efficient path.
5. Additional Tips for Saving Money
Here are a few more strategies to help keep your costs down:
- Consider sharing a ride
If you’re traveling with a group, you can save money by sharing a ride through Uber Pool or Lyft Line, which allows multiple passengers going in the same direction to share a vehicle. While this can extend your ride, it can also make the trip much cheaper.
- Pre-book your taxi
Some taxi companies allow you to pre-book a cab through an app or by calling ahead. This can help you avoid waiting in line and lock in a set price. With Uber or Lyft, you can also schedule rides in advance, although this may not always guarantee the lowest fare if surge pricing occurs.
- Public transportation
If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a bit of extra time, consider taking the AirTrain to the subway. The AirTrain connects JFK to the subway system for just $8, and then you can take the subway into Manhattan for $2.75. This option is significantly cheaper than taking a taxi or ride-sharing service, but it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or prefer a more direct routes
Conclusion
Getting from JFK to Manhattan doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By understanding the flat rate pricing for taxis, avoiding unauthorized cabs, and taking advantage of ride-sharing apps when the price is right, you can easily navigate the airport and save money along the way. Whether you opt for a traditional yellow cab, a ride-sharing service, or even public transit, planning ahead will ensure you get the best value for your trip into the city. Safe travels and enjoy your time in New York!