Philadelphia to New York JFK Airport: The Best Ways to Travel
March 24, 2025
William Cartwright
Philadelphia to New York JFK Airport: The Best Ways to Travel
Need to get from Philadelphia to JFK Airport in New York City? Whether you’re catching an international flight or connecting from PHL, this guide breaks down the fastest, cheapest, and most stress-free ways to get from Philly to JFK Airport—including train, bus, car, and rideshare options.
Let’s make your transfer smooth and on time.
Distance Between Philadelphia and JFK Airport
Approx. 100 miles (160 km)- Travel time: 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic
1. Train + Subway/AirTrain – Best Balance of Cost & Time
Take an Amtrak or NJ Transit train from Philadelphia to New York Penn Station, then connect to JFK via subway and AirTrain.
Step-by-step:
- Amtrak/NJ Transit: From 30th Street Station (PHL) to NY Penn Station
- Subway: Take the E train from Penn Station to Sutphin Blvd–Archer Ave–JFK Station
- AirTrain JFK: From Sutphin Blvd to your terminal
Total Cost:
- Amtrak: $30–$90 (depending on time/class)
- Subway + AirTrain: $10.75 total
Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Pro Tip: Amtrak is faster and more comfortable, but NJ Transit is a budget-friendly alternative (around $20–$30 total).
2. Bus + Subway/AirTrain – Cheapest Option
Take a Greyhound or Megabus from Philadelphia to NYC, then transfer to subway and AirTrain to reach JFK.
Step-by-step:
- Bus from Philly to Port Authority or 34th St. (NYC)
- Subway (E line) to Jamaica Station
- AirTrain to JFK terminals
Total Cost:
- Bus: $10–$25
- Subway + AirTrain: $10.75
- Travel time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
Ideal for travelers on a tight budget, but expect less comfort and flexibility.
3. Driving (Personal Car or Rental) – Most Flexible
If you prefer full control over your schedule, drive from Philadelphia to JFK via I-95 N and the Belt Parkway.
Parking at JFK:
- Long-term parking available
- Daily rates: $20–$29/day
Total Cost (est.):
- Gas + Tolls: $20–$40 one way
- Parking: Depends on duration
- Travel time: 2–3 hours (watch for NYC traffic)
Smart Park Philadelphia is a better alternative if you’re flying out of PHL first and want secure parking before heading to JFK another day.
4. Uber, Lyft, or Private Car – Most Convenient
Door-to-door ride services are the easiest but also the most expensive.
Cost:
- UberX: $150–$250+ (depending on time of day, traffic, and surge pricing)
- Travel time: 2 to 3.5 hours
Best for groups sharing the cost or travelers with heavy luggage or tight schedules.
5. Connecting Flight from PHL to JFK
Not recommended unless you’re continuing on an international flight from JFK.
- Flights between PHL and JFK are rare and usually involve layovers
- You’ll spend more time in the air and at the airport than on a train or bus
Best Travel Options from Philadelphia to JFK Airport
| Method | Time | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Subway | 2.5–3 hrs | $40–$100 | Balance of speed & comfort |
| Bus + Subway | 3.5–4.5 hrs | $20–$35 | Budget travelers |
| Drive | 2–3 hrs | $20–$60+ | Flexibility & control |
| Uber/Lyft | 2–3.5 hrs | $150–$250+ | Door-to-door convenience |
| Flight (PHL–JFK) | 4+ hrs | $100+ | Not ideal (rare & inefficient) |
Pro Tip: Use Smart Park Philadelphia for Parking if You’re Starting at PHL
If your journey begins at PHL, park your car at Smart Park Philadelphia before you head to JFK or NYC.
Why Smart Park?
- Affordable long-term rates
- 24/7 shuttle to PHL terminals
- Secure, monitored lot
- Easy access to train and bus stations
Book ahead and enjoy peace of mind while you travel to New York JFK.
Now you’re fully equipped to get from Philadelphia to JFK Airport with the travel method that best fits your time, budget, and style.