Subway and Bus from LaGuardia

The cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan is to take the M60 bus to the subway, and then ride the subway into the city.  Unfortunately, there is no subway or rail line that services Laguardia Airport (LGA). That doesn't mean you are stuck paying $25 or more for a one way cab ride into Manhattan--just take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system.  

Step One 

MTA Metrocard Vending Machine

Purchase a metrocard from a Metro Transit Authority (MTA) vending machine.  There is a MTA vending machine at every terminal at LaGuardia.  More information on MTA metrocards can be found here. 

Tip: If you are staying in New York City for more than a couple of days, the best value is to buy a 7-day unlimited ride metrocard for $29 that can be used on all buses, subways, and even the Roosevelt Island Tram.

Step Two

Look for signs for ground transportation/M60 bus, or ask any airport employee and they'll be able to point you in the right direction.  Once the M60 bus arrives, step on and swipe your metrocard in the machine located next to the driver.  

Note: Many people are scared to take subways or buses New York City because they worry about getting lost or feel they are unsafe.  I have visited NYC nearly every year for the past decade and I have never worried about my safety on buses or the subway.  Furthermore, don't be scared to ask for help; I've had overwhelming positive experiences in asking for help in NYC. 

Step Three

It's easy to catch the subway from the M60

Get off the bus at Astoria/31st Street, which is where the subway station is located.  You will have to swipe your metro card again to enter the station.  Once inside, find the platform for a Manhattan bound N or Q train.  The N and Q lines will take you all the way into Times Square!  A map of the subway can be found here.

Note: Rather than getting off at Astoria/31st Street, you could also ride the bus into Harlem to transfer to one of several subway lines located along 125th Street.  See link above for a map of subway lines.