Cheap Flights from New York: JFK vs LGA vs EWR

Published May 27, 2026 · Updated June 6, 2026 · By Meera Rao, Lead Flight Specialist Last reviewed Jun 2026

New York's three airports — JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark — operate almost as one giant market, but their pricing personalities are very different. Knowing which one to fly from can save you hundreds.

JFK (John F. Kennedy International)

• Best for: International long-haul, JetBlue, Delta SkyTeam transatlantic
• Avoid for: Domestic shuttles to Boston or DC (LGA wins)
• Transit: AirTrain + LIRR or subway (~45 min to Midtown)

LaGuardia (LGA)

• Best for: Domestic East Coast short hops (BOS, DCA, ORD)
• Avoid for: International (very limited service)
• Transit: No direct subway; bus/taxi (~30 min to Midtown)

Newark (EWR)

• Best for: United international long-haul (their hub), West Coast nonstops
• Avoid for: Tight connections (notorious delays)
• Transit: AirTrain + NJ Transit (~40 min to Penn Station)

Money-Saving Strategies

1. Search all three airports. Same city pair can vary by $200+ depending on which airport you fly from.
2. Mix airports. Fly out of EWR, return to JFK — totally fine for cost, just plan ground transport.
3. Consider Stewart (SWF) or Long Island (ISP). Allegiant and Breeze fly from these and beat the big three on leisure routes.

See our New York flight booking page for routes and airlines.