How to Get From Newark Airport to LaGuardia (Fastest Routes, Costs, and Travel Times)

Traveling between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) requires crossing both New Jersey and New York City. Because there is no direct train or helicopter between the two airports, every route involves either full ground transportation or a Manhattan transfer.

If speed and reliability matter, the most predictable option is to fly the Newark to Manhattan segment by helicopter and then take a short car ride to LaGuardia. Budget travelers can instead choose public transit or shared shuttles.

Newark to LaGuardia quick comparison

What is the fastest way to get from Newark Airport to LaGuardia?

The fastest and most reliable route combines air and ground travel:

1. Fly from Newark Airport to Manhattan by helicopter in about 7 to 10 minutes
   
2. Take a taxi or car service from Manhattan to LaGuardia (typically 20 to 35 minutes)

There is currently no direct helicopter route between Newark and LaGuardia. However, flying the Newark to Manhattan segment removes the most congested portion of the trip across bridges, tunnels, and highways.

For travelers with tight connections, international transfers, or important schedules, this hybrid helicopter plus car approach offers the most predictable timing.

Can you take a helicopter from Newark Airport to LaGuardia?

No direct helicopter service currently flies straight between Newark Airport and LaGuardia Airport.

However, travelers can shorten the journey significantly by flying:

• Newark Airport → Manhattan heliport by helicopter
  
• Manhattan → LaGuardia by taxi or rideshare
  

Because the longest and most traffic-prone portion of the journey is the Newark to Manhattan segment, flying this section often saves substantial time and reduces delay risk.

Taxi or rideshare from Newark to LaGuardia

A taxi or rideshare is the simplest door-to-door option.

Typical taxi details

• Travel time: 45 to 90+ minutes depending on traffic
  
• Estimated cost: usually high due to tolls and distance
  
• Pickup: official taxi stands outside terminals
  

Because the route crosses major highways, tunnels, and city streets, travel time can increase significantly during rush hour, bad weather, or major events.

This option works best for travelers with flexible schedules.

Private car service

Private car services provide a more structured experience than taxis.

Advantages

• Pre-scheduled pickup
  
• Professional drivers
  
• Fixed pricing with some providers
  
• Comfortable vehicles for luggage
  

Considerations

• Typically costs more than taxis
  
• Still affected by NYC traffic
  

Private cars are popular for business travelers who want reliability but do not need the fastest possible travel time.

Shuttle services between Newark and LaGuardia

Shared shuttle services offer a lower-cost alternative.

Common shuttle types

• Shared ride airport shuttles
  
• Private group shuttles
  
• Hotel-linked airport transfers
  

What to expect

• Multiple stops for other passengers
  
• Longer travel times than private rides
  
• Usually requires advance booking
  

Shuttles are best for travelers who want to reduce costs and are not in a rush.

Public transportation from Newark to LaGuardia

Public transit is the cheapest way to travel between the airports but also the most complex.

Typical route example

1. AirTrain Newark to Newark Airport Rail Station
   
2. NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station
   
3. Subway or bus toward Queens
   
4. Airport bus to LaGuardia
   

Expected timing

• Total travel time: roughly 90 to 120+ minutes
  
• Requires multiple transfers
  
• Challenging with heavy luggage
  

Public transportation works best for experienced NYC travelers or those prioritizing budget over convenience.

Bus options from Newark to LaGuardia

Some travelers combine buses for a lower-cost journey.

Example routing may include:

• Newark Airport bus or NJ Transit to Manhattan
  
• Transfer to an airport bus serving LaGuardia
  

While affordable, buses are highly sensitive to traffic and usually slower than trains or cars.

Shared ride services

Shared rides through app-based platforms or shuttle companies can reduce travel costs.

Pros

• Lower price than private rides
  
• Flexible pickup options
  
• Environmentally efficient
  

Cons

• Possible multiple pickups and drop-offs
  
• Longer travel time
  

Shared rides are a reasonable middle-ground between cost and convenience.

Cheapest way to get from Newark Airport to LaGuardia

The cheapest route typically combines:

• AirTrain Newark
  
• NJ Transit train
  
• NYC subway or bus
  

This combination usually costs far less than taxis or car services but requires planning and multiple transfers.

Travelers should check schedules in advance and allow extra time for connections.

How long does the Newark to LaGuardia trip take?

Travel times vary heavily depending on traffic.

Because highway congestion can be unpredictable, travelers with important flight connections often avoid full ground transfers.

Tips for a smooth Newark to LaGuardia transfer

• Book transportation in advance when possible
  
• Allow extra time during rush hours
  
• Check flight delays before scheduling pickup
  
• Travel with manageable luggage if using public transit
  
• Consider hybrid air plus ground transport for time-sensitive travel
  

Planning ahead greatly reduces stress when transferring between airports.

FAQs

Is there a direct train from Newark to LaGuardia?

No. Travelers must transfer through Manhattan using trains plus buses or subway connections.

Is there a direct shuttle between the airports?

Some shuttle companies offer airport transfers, but most involve shared stops and variable travel times.

Can traffic make the trip much longer?

Yes. Travel times can increase significantly during rush hour, holidays, or severe weather.

What is the most reliable option for tight connections?

Flying the Newark to Manhattan portion and completing the final drive to LaGuardia removes the most congested segment of the journey and provides the most predictable travel timing.

Final recommendation

For travelers focused on cost, public transit or shared shuttles can work with sufficient time.

For travelers focused on convenience, taxis and private cars provide direct service.

For travelers focused on speed and schedule certainty, using a helicopter from Newark to Manhattan followed by a short car transfer to LaGuardia minimizes congestion exposure and provides the most consistent transfer experience between the airports.