Best Way to Get From LaGuardia to Manhattan

Limo Service from LaGuardia to Manhattan (Great for Groups)

On my first trip to NYC, I was traveling with family. We had luggage, kids, and a lot of opinions.

I splurged and scheduled a large SUV with CarmelLimo, a private car service. A driver was waiting for us at baggage claim with a sign (just like in the movies), and within minutes we were cruising toward Midtown.

It wasn’t cheap, but for a large family, it was smooth and easy. The ride was comfortable, the driver was polite, and the whole experience felt like a treat.

Best for: Large groups, special occasions, or travelers who prefer a stress-free experience.

Cost: Around $120-$180, including tip, depending on traffic and the type of car.

Pros: Comfortable, stress-free, direct.

Cons: Pricey, especially if you’re solo.

Yellow Taxi from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan (Simple but Pricey)

The second time I visited NYC, I thought I’d go the classic route. Yellow cab, baby. I grabbed my bag, walked outside, and hopped into the first taxi in line.

It started fine, until we hit traffic. The meter kept ticking, the driver kept sighing, and when we finally got near my hotel, he pulled over a block early and said, “This is as far as I go.”

I ended up dragging my suitcase down the street. Not ideal.

Taxi rides from LaGuardia are metered rides, which means you won’t know the fare until you arrive at your destination.

If you choose to take a taxi, make sure you get in the official taxi line outside the terminal. Do not be enticed by the men standing in the airport saying they have a taxi and trying to steer you toward their car.

Best for: People who want a quick option without booking in advance.

Cost: Around $50-$70 plus tip and tolls, depending on traffic.

Pros: Easily accessible, no need to book ahead.

Cons: Expensive in traffic, can be hit-or-miss.

Uber or Lyft from LaGuardia to Manhattan (Convenient but Unpredictable)

My third trip was the one where I decided to take an Uber from LaGuardia to Manhattan.

The app is easy to use and no cash is needed. I followed the signs for “Car Services” in the terminal, and the car showed up quickly.

Unfortunately, the car smelled like a middle school gym locker. It was also hot, and my driver didn’t speak much English. Communication was tricky, and the ride wasn’t exactly relaxing.

I arrived at my destination, but it wasn’t the smooth experience I had hoped for.

Best for: Travelers comfortable with ride apps who don’t mind a gamble.

Cost: Typically $50-$70, with higher prices during surge periods and peak hours.

Pros: No tipping stress, the app makes it easy to pay with a credit card, and it’s a direct ride.

Cons: Quality varies, prices can fluctuate, and it’s not ideal in traffic.

Shared Airport Shuttle (Budget-Friendly but Slow)

On my last trip—a solo one—I booked a shared shuttle through Go Airlink NYC. It was pre-booked, safe, and budget-friendly. But there was a catch.

Since it was a shared shuttle, the driver had other hotels to stop at. I was the last drop-off. What should’ve taken 40 minutes ended up taking over an hour and a half.

Still, I didn’t have to worry about navigating the subway or fighting for a cab.

Best for: Solo travelers or budget-conscious folks with time to spare.

Cost: Around $25-$35.

Pros: Affordable, safe, luggage help included.

Cons: Can take a long time, limited schedule.

Public Bus and Subway from LaGuardia to Manhattan -Cheapest Way to Get From LaGuardia to Manhattan

I haven’t done this one yet, but I’ve researched it a lot. It’s the cheapest way into the city, and it’s what I plan to try next.

Here’s how it works: You take the free LaGuardia Link Q70 SBS (Select Bus Service) from LaGuardia to either the Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave or 74th Street–Broadway subway stations. From there, you hop on the E, F, M, R, or 7 train into Manhattan.

This method costs just $2.90 with a MetroCard or contactless payment, and the Q70 has luggage racks for travelers. It’s also free if you transfer to the subway within two hours.

Best for: Adventurous travelers, solo tourists, and those traveling light.

Cost: $2.90 total.

Pros: Super affordable, runs frequently, surprisingly efficient.

Cons: Requires transfers from LaGuardia airport to Manhattan subway, not ideal with lots of bags.

Helicopter Transfer from LaGuardia to Manhattan (Yes, Really)

Now this is the option I’m most curious about. I haven’t done it yet, but wouldn’t that be a way to arrive?

There are companies offering helicopter rides from LaGuardia to Manhattan. It takes under 10 minutes, and you get an incredible view of the skyline. Total luxury.

Of course, it’ll cost you. Expect to spend at least $400 per person.

Best for: Travelers in a hurry, those with deep pockets, or those seeking the ultimate NYC arrival experience.

Cost: Approximately $400+ per person.

Pros: Fast, unique, stylish.

Cons: Expensive, limited service.