When planning a trip to New York City, one of the most important decisions you’ll make comes even before you land—choosing the right airport. The city is served by three major airports, but most international and long-haul travelers find themselves deciding between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
While both are major hubs with global connections, the experience at each can be drastically different depending on your priorities. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a budget traveler, or a first-time visitor, understanding what each airport offers can save you time, stress, and even money.
This in-depth comparison covers everything you need to know to choose between JFK and EWR—accessibility, amenities, airlines, customs, ground transportation, and overall convenience. Let’s dive in.
Location and Accessibility
📍 JFK Airport (Queens, NY)
JFK is located in the borough of Queens, roughly 16 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan. It’s technically in New York City proper, which is often a mental comfort to travelers who like the idea of landing “in” NYC.
Pros:
Accessible via AirTrain + subway or LIRR (Long Island Rail Road).
Travel time to Midtown: 45–75 minutes depending on traffic and mode of transport.
Often perceived as better connected for NYC residents, especially those in Brooklyn or Queens.
Cons:
Travel time from Manhattan can be long during rush hour.
The subway/AirTrain combo isn’t the most intuitive for first-timers with luggage.
📍 EWR Airport (Newark, NJ)
EWR is located in Newark, New Jersey, approximately 15 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan. Despite being in a different state, it’s actually closer to Lower Manhattan than JFK.
Pros:
Faster access to downtown (Wall Street, SoHo, Tribeca) via NJ Transit and Amtrak.
The AirTrain Newark connects directly to NJ Transit trains at Newark Liberty Station.
Generally less traffic on the New Jersey Turnpike compared to Van Wyck Expressway.
Cons:
Psychological barrier: “It’s in Jersey.” (Even if it’s closer to Manhattan, some travelers perceive it as “far.”)
Connections via public transportation can be less familiar to international tourists.
Verdict:
JFK wins for those staying in Brooklyn or eastern Queens, while EWR is typically faster for travelers headed to Lower Manhattan or New Jersey.
Airlines and Flight Options
🛫 JFK Airlines
JFK is a major international hub, especially for:
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines
JetBlue (Flagship Terminal 5)
British Airways
Emirates, Qatar Airways, and other international carriers
It boasts a wide variety of nonstop flights to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and South America.
🛬 EWR Airlines
EWR is the primary East Coast hub for United Airlines, which dominates several terminals and offers:
Extensive domestic routes
International flights to Europe, Asia, and Latin America
More convenient Star Alliance connections
Other notable carriers include Lufthansa, Air India, and TAP Air Portugal.
Verdict:
If you’re a United loyalist, EWR is your go-to. For a wider variety of international carriers and alliance flexibility, JFK offers more diversity.
Terminals and Amenities
🧳 JFK Experience
JFK has 6 terminals (1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8)—each managed independently, which can lead to inconsistencies. However, recent renovations (especially at Terminal 5 and 8) have modernized the airport significantly.
Highlights:
Terminal 5 (JetBlue): One of the most modern, efficient terminals in NYC.
Delta’s Terminal 4: Offers excellent dining, shopping, and Sky Club lounges.
American’s Terminal 8: Recently renovated with new lounges and business class check-in.
🧳 EWR Experience
EWR has three terminals (A, B, C), all undergoing modernization. Terminal A recently opened a state-of-the-art facility with upgraded security, shops, and dining options.
Highlights:
United’s Terminal C: Offers a seamless travel experience for United flyers, with self-boarding, mobile order food delivery, and a variety of lounges.
New Terminal A (Port Authority Project): Designed to elevate passenger comfort with wider gates, better signage, and local food options.
Verdict:
Both airports have their gems, but JFK’s Terminal 5 and Delta/American lounges offer an edge. If flying United, EWR’s Terminal C delivers one of the most streamlined airport experiences in the country.
Customs and Immigration
For international travelers, getting through customs can be the most frustrating part of any journey. This is where the two airports differ significantly.
🛂 JFK Customs
Longer wait times due to higher passenger volume.
Multiple terminals with separate customs areas; quality varies.
Global Entry kiosks are available but can be bottlenecked at peak times.
🛂 EWR Customs
Generally shorter lines and more efficient processing.
Single customs zone makes operations smoother.
Global Entry also available and often faster.
Verdict:
EWR is typically the winner for faster entry into the U.S. after long-haul flights.
Ground Transportation Options
🚇 JFK Options:
AirTrain JFK + Subway/LIRR (approx. $10–$20 total).
Yellow cab flat fare to Manhattan (~$70 + tolls & tip).
Uber/Lyft rides vary with traffic, usually $60–$90.
Limited direct bus options.
🚆 EWR Options:
AirTrain Newark + NJ Transit to Penn Station (~$15).
Taxi fares vary; can cost $70–$100 depending on destination.
Rideshare services often slightly cheaper than JFK.
Bus (Express Bus to Manhattan) is also available.
Verdict:
Public transportation from EWR to Midtown can be cheaper and faster than JFK, especially if you avoid rush hour.
Luggage & Accessibility
If you’re traveling with heavy luggage, kids, or have mobility needs:
JFK’s AirTrain connects all terminals and is elevator accessible.
EWR’s AirTrain is newer and smoother for transfers, especially to NJ Transit.
Both airports offer luggage carts, porters, and wheelchair services, though JFK’s layout across six terminals can be more confusing and spread out.
Verdict:
EWR has an edge for mobility-friendly design and fewer terminal changes.
Flight Delays and Weather
Both airports are susceptible to weather delays, especially during storms. However:
JFK typically handles more volume, which can lead to cascading delays.
EWR sees fewer delays overall, according to FAA data, especially for domestic flights.
That said, weather patterns affect both similarly, and the real issue is often air traffic congestion in NYC airspace.
Cost of Travel (Total)
If you factor in:
Transportation costs
Time to/from city
Food and lounge availability
Baggage fees (based on airline)
You’ll find EWR often ends up being cheaper, especially for domestic flyers or those staying in Lower Manhattan or New Jersey.
However, JFK can win out for international deals with foreign carriers, especially for economy and premium economy seats.
Which Airport Is Better for You?
| Traveler Type | Best Airport |
| First-Time Tourist | JFK |
| Business Traveler (Lower Manhattan) | EWR |
| United Airlines Loyalist | EWR |
| Delta, JetBlue, American Flyers | JFK |
| Budget-Conscious Traveler | EWR |
| Staying in Brooklyn | JFK |
| Staying in New Jersey | EWR |
| Traveling with Kids | EWR (easier transfers) |
| Seeking International Flight Options | JFK |
| Priority on Fast Immigration | EWR |
When it comes to choosing between JFK and EWR, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each airport offers unique advantages that can significantly shape the start—and end—of your journey. Your airline of choice, accommodation location, and personal travel preferences will ultimately guide your decision.
If you’re chasing a good international deal, want lounge access, or are staying in Brooklyn or Queens, JFK might be your best bet. As a major hub for international travel, JFK provides access to a wide range of airlines, including many international carriers that don’t fly into Newark. This means more competition, more route options, and often more competitive pricing for transatlantic or long-haul flights. Add in a solid lineup of premium lounges—whether you’re flying business class or using a lounge pass—and JFK can make your departure or layover a far more comfortable experience. For travelers already based in Brooklyn, Queens, or Long Island, JFK’s location just makes practical sense, offering a relatively straightforward commute via subway or AirTrain.
On the other hand, if you’re flying United, heading to downtown NYC, or want faster immigration and simpler public transit, EWR could make your journey smoother. Newark Liberty International Airport is United’s major hub, and as such, offers seamless connections for both domestic and international travelers loyal to the airline. For those staying in Manhattan—especially in areas like the Financial District, SoHo, or Midtown—EWR can actually be the more convenient option. With direct rail access via NJ Transit and generally quicker customs processing thanks to newer facilities and slightly lower foot traffic, EWR often delivers a more efficient arrival experience. And while it might not have quite the same range of lounges or international carriers as JFK, it holds its own in terms of passenger experience and convenience.
Ultimately, both JFK and EWR serve as powerful gateways to one of the greatest cities in the world. Whether you’re here for business, adventure, or a long-awaited reunion, your NYC experience begins the moment you touch down. The skyline, the energy, the diversity—it’s all waiting for you just beyond the terminal doors. No matter which airport you choose, you’re landing at the heart of opportunity, culture, and endless discovery. So pick the airport that suits your travel style, and let New York take it from there.