New York’s 6 Airports Show a $104 Swing in Ticket Prices

New York State's breadth of airport options is unmatched by most states, and the price differences between those airports are substantial. Only In Your State analyzed recently released Bureau of Transportation Statistics data, and New York's six airports in the national top 100 span from among the nation's most affordable to among its most expensive—a $103.92 spread from cheapest to priciest.

Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) ranked 11th most affordable nationally in 2025, with an average domestic fare of $327.40—$59.60 below the national average of $387. For western New York travelers, Buffalo offers one of the better departure values of any airport in the Northeast.

The Full New York Rankings

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City averaged $357.40, ranking 24th nationally—below the national average and a genuinely competitive fare for one of the country's 12 busiest airports. Westchester County Airport (HPN) in White Plains averaged $363.26, ranking 30th—a smaller option that performs well for the suburban metro area it serves.

Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) averaged $368.08, ranking 33rd nationally—below the national average and a solid value for upstate New York. Albany International Airport (ALB) averaged $407.82, ranking 62nd—above the national average and the priciest upstate option.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the most expensive New York airport in the rankings at $431.32, placing 86th nationally. That's $103.92 more per ticket than Buffalo. JFK ranked 13th by passenger volume—a major international hub where connecting traffic and high operating costs keep fares elevated.

What New York Travelers Should Know

The clearest savings opportunity in New York State is for those with access to Buffalo. At $327.40, BUF ranks 11th nationally and offers fares that rival the best deals in Florida and Hawaii. For western New York residents and those in nearby northwestern Pennsylvania, Buffalo is an exceptional departure market.

In the New York City metro, LaGuardia's $357.40 average stands out as the best deal among the three major area airports—$67 cheaper than Newark and nearly $74 cheaper than JFK. The driving time to LaGuardia from many New York City neighborhoods is shorter than to the other two, adding convenience to the cost advantage.

Beyond direct fare comparisons, airport choice significantly impacts the total cost of a trip once ground transportation is factored in. While LaGuardia and JFK both serve New York City travelers, LaGuardia’s closer proximity to Midtown Manhattan often translates to lower rideshare fares or shorter public transit times, compounding its ticket price advantage over JFK. Meanwhile, suburban travelers in Westchester and the Hudson Valley often find that the time saved and lower parking fees at Westchester County Airport easily outweigh minor fare differences compared to the larger NYC hubs.

For upstate travelers willing to drive an extra hour, cross-shopping regional airports like Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany can yield substantial savings for family trips or group travel. A family of four flying out of Buffalo instead of Albany, for example, could save over $320 on round-trip airfare alone—more than enough to cover gas, airport parking, and a meal along the way.

This data reflects 2025 averages from the Department of Transportation, released in May 2026. Current fares may be higher due to rising jet fuel costs. Knowing how to find cheap flights is valuable in New York's complex multi-airport environment.

To get the most from your next departure, explore how to find cheap flights and unexpected ways to cut travel costs to help stretch your budget further.

To see how every major airport in the country compares—plus the full methodology behind the data—explore the complete U.S. Airport Cost Rankings for 2026.