[vl]

There is subway line to JFK, why would you be in traffic?

[saalweachter]

JFK is at the end of a long subway line, with the Air Train between the subway and the airport. Coming from most parts of Manhattan, I would budget 90 minutes to get there via the subway and 45 minutes by taxi.

The subway to JFK is cheaper, but most people who live in Manhattan and can afford to fly semi-regularly are going to spring for a taxi.

[uberdog]

I would always take LIRR to Jamaica, then Airtrain. Easy peasy, way faster than the subway and only about $20.

[speik]

Taxi is much easier. If you've got the dough, you're going to take a taxi. It's a flat $45 rate out to JFK as well.