1. Car Service - The Best Way to Travel
For business travel on the company's dime, using a car service is the best way to travel from the airport to Manhattan (and back), mainly because you can pre-schedule your pick-up. Cost: Depending on the company, a luxury sedan will generally cost somewhere between $35 and $50 each way, plus any tolls and tip.
Pros: Service can be pre-arranged (and prepaid), and your ride will be comfortable and hassle-free. Using a car service can save time, as you won't have to wait in cab lines.
Cons: Traffic can be a factor and cost is higher (though often not much) than a cab.
2. Taxis - The Next Best Option
From JFK: Catch a taxi outside any terminal, where you will generally find a taxi stand (and a line).To JFK: You can catch a cab from anywhere in the city simply by flagging one down (cabs cannot be pre-arranged).
Cost: Service between JFK and any point in Manhattan costs a flat rate of $45, plus any tolls and tip.
Pros: Cabs are plentiful and the flat rate eliminates any need for negotiation. You'll get door-to-door service in a fairly speedy manner without having to navigate subway, train or bus routes.
Cons: Depending on traffic, the trip can take well over an hour. Also, during rush hour or inclement weather, cabs can be hard to come by.
Learn more about NYC taxis.
3. Shuttle - Door-to-Door Bargain
Good if you are traveling in a group, or still want door-to-door service at a cheaper price than a car or taxi. Cost: Depending on which shuttle company you hire, the ride will cost $15 to $20. Plan on hour and a half to get you from a midtown hotel to your terminal, but service may be shorter or longer depending on number of stops.
Pros: Door-to-door service at an affordable price. No navigation required. Online and advance reservations. Great for groups. Many large chain hotels in the city have shuttle arrangements with Go Airlink Shuttle, making booking easy at your hotel concierge.
Cons: Trip will usually take longer than a cab or taxi, as the shuttle may make a few pick-up stops before heading to airport.
4. Public Transportation - Reliable and Cheap
For those comfortable taking NYC subways or trains, AirTran offers a fast, reliable and cheap method for getting to JFK via subway or the LIRR. Cost: Via the subway at Penn Station, the entire trip will take 60 minutes and costs $7.
Pros: Speedy service, available 24 hours a day. No traffic or weather delays. Bargain Price
Cons: You'll have to make at least one transfer (more if you need to travel to Penn Station) and pay attention to stops. Dealing with your luggage may be cumbersome.