How Much is a Flat Rate From NYC to JFK?

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Last updated: March 2025

The flat fare for a taxi ride between Manhattan and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is $70, applicable in both directions. This consistent pricing ensures that passengers avoid surprises from fluctuating rates or traffic conditions, making it a popular choice for travelers.

Flat Fare Breakdown

1. Base Fare:
   The flat rate for trips between Manhattan and JFK is $70, regardless of travel time or distance.
2. Additional Surcharges:
   • MTA State Surcharge: An additional $0.50 is added to all trips.
   • Peak Hour Surcharge: A $5 surcharge applies during peak hours, which are weekdays from 4 PM to 8 PM, excluding holidays.
   • New York State Congestion Surcharge:
     • This surcharge is added to all trips that travel through Manhattan below 96th Street:
       • $2.50 for yellow taxis.
       • $0.75 for pooled rides.
3. Tipping:
   • Tipping is customary for good service, with 15–20% being the standard.
4. Capacity:
   • Standard yellow cabs can accommodate up to 4 passengers.
   • Minivan taxis can carry up to 5 passengers at no additional cost.

Other Important Details

• Meter Reading:
  For any taxi trips that are not flat-rate trips between JFK and Manhattan, the meter should read $3.00 at the start of the trip. This does not apply to flat fare $70 JFK-Manhattan trips.
• Shared Destination:
  The flat rate applies to all passengers traveling together to the same destination, regardless of the number of people.

Alternatives to Taxis for JFK Airport Transfers

If a taxi doesn’t suit your needs, there are other ways to travel between Manhattan and JFK:

1. Public Transit:
   • Subway or Long Island Rail Road (LIRR):
     Take the subway or LIRR to AirTrain JFK, which connects to all terminals.
     • Cost: $8.50 for the AirTrain, plus subway or LIRR fares.
     • Travel Time: Approximately 30-50 minutes, depending on your starting location.
2. Rideshare Apps (e.g., Uber, Lyft):
   • Rideshare apps don’t offer flat rates, and pricing can differ depending on time of day, traffic, surge pricing, and the type of vehicle selected
   • Cost: Typically ranges from $70 to $150
3. Private Car Services:
   • Services like LUXY Ride provide a luxurious and reliable alternative.
   • Cost: Starts around $130 for a premium sedan.
   • Amenities: Add car seats, pet travel and other customizations to your ride when you choose a premium transfer (for a similar fee to typical rideshare airport rates, with a lot more value).
4. Shuttle Services:
   • Shared shuttles like Go Airlink NYC offer an economical option.
   • Cost: Starts at $35 per person.

Why Choose a Flat-Rate Taxi to JFK?

• Predictability:
  No matter how long the trip takes due to traffic, the fare remains consistent. (Be sure to check ahead of time what the current flat rate is, to avoid surprise or confusion. You can check when this blog was last updated at the top of the page, or look to sources like the JFK site to stay updated on the most accurate flat rates, fees and surcharges for taxis.)
• Availability:
  Taxis are readily available at taxi stands throughout Manhattan and JFK.
• Convenience:
  Direct drop-off at your terminal without needing to switch transportation modes.

FAQs About Flat-Rate Taxis to JFK

1. Does the flat fare include tolls?
   No, tolls are additional and are charged at their current rate.
2. Are there any exceptions to the flat fare?
   The flat fare applies only to trips between Manhattan and JFK. Trips to other boroughs are metered.
3. Can I pre-book a taxi for JFK?
   While you can’t pre-book a yellow cab, you can use private car services for scheduled pickups.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the flat-rate taxi fare offers a reliable and straightforward way to get between Manhattan and JFK. For those looking for additional luxury or flexibility, services like the LUXY Ride App offer a premium experience, customizable and tailored to your needs.