Tired of guessing which route gets you from River Edge to Manhattan fastest? You are not alone. Between trains, buses, ferries, and traffic, choosing the right commute can feel like a moving target. The good news is you have several reliable options, and each one can fit a different schedule, destination, or budget.
In this guide, you will learn the most practical ways to get from River Edge to NYC, typical door‑to‑door times, how transfers work, pass and parking basics, and smart tips to keep your mornings smooth. Let’s dive in.
Your main commute options
Rail to Hoboken, then PATH or ferry
If you want flexibility to reach Midtown or the Financial District, this route is a strong choice. You take NJ TRANSIT to Hoboken Terminal, then transfer to PATH for 33rd Street or World Trade Center, or you can board a ferry from Hoboken to Midtown or Downtown.
- Typical time: about 40 to 70 minutes door to door, depending on transfer timing and your final stop in Manhattan.
- Best for: FiDi or WTC, and Midtown riders who prefer a predictable transfer at a major hub.
- What to know: Transfers introduce some wait time. Hoboken Terminal offers multiple backup options during disruptions, including PATH and ferries.
Rail via Secaucus to New York Penn Station
If your destination is Midtown around Penn Station or the 34th Street corridor, this can be efficient. You ride NJ TRANSIT to Secaucus Junction and transfer to a Midtown service that arrives at New York Penn Station.
- Typical time: about 35 to 60 minutes, driven by transfer timing at Secaucus and train frequency.
- Best for: Midtown commuters who want to arrive at Penn Station and connect to the subway system there.
- What to know: Service patterns can change based on construction or seasonal schedules. Always confirm the current timetable.
Express bus to Port Authority Bus Terminal
Express buses run from Bergen County park‑and‑ride lots and local stops directly to Port Authority in Midtown. This is a one‑seat ride into the heart of the Times Square area.
- Typical time: about 35 to 70+ minutes. Travel time varies with traffic, especially at peak hours.
- Best for: Midtown commuters who value a single ride without rail transfers.
- What to know: Buses can be crowded during rush hour. Boarding earlier at a park‑and‑ride hub can improve your odds of a seat.
Drive to a ferry terminal, then ferry to Manhattan
If you prefer a calmer ride and direct landings in Midtown or Downtown, consider driving to Hoboken or Weehawken and taking a ferry.
- Typical time: about 40 to 70 minutes including parking, wait times, and the ferry ride.
- Best for: Riders who value comfort and predictable river crossing, and those headed to ferry-served landings near their office.
- What to know: Ferry fares are typically higher than bus or rail, but many commuters find the experience worth it.
Driving all the way to Manhattan
You can drive via the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, or Holland Tunnel. This route is the least predictable and often the most expensive once you factor in tolls and parking.
- Typical time: about 40 to 90+ minutes, highly dependent on traffic and your parking plan.
- Best for: Occasional trips when you need door-to-door control, not as a daily strategy for most commuters.
- What to know: Park‑and‑ride plus transit is often faster and cheaper for a daily commute.
Choose the best route for your day
Match your route to your destination
- Midtown near Times Square or Penn Station: Express bus to Port Authority or rail via Secaucus to Penn are typically the most direct.
- Financial District or World Trade Center: Rail to Hoboken, then PATH to WTC or a ferry can be faster and more consistent.
Consider transfers and reliability
Fewer transfers usually means fewer surprises. If you know you have tight morning meetings, pick the option with the least handoffs or the most frequent departures.
Compare schedule frequency
Peak periods add more trains and buses. Off‑peak and weekends are leaner, and some lines reduce service. Always review the current schedule before you go.
Passes, fares, and how to pay
NJ TRANSIT passes and tickets
- Monthly passes: If you commute most weekdays, a monthly pass often delivers the best per‑ride value for both rail and bus.
- Payment options: Mobile tickets through the NJ TRANSIT app are convenient and help you avoid lines.
PATH and ferry options
- PATH: Offers pay‑per‑ride and period pass products. If you regularly connect through Hoboken, calculate whether a PATH pass makes sense.
- Ferries: Monthly and multi‑ride options are available. Ferry fares are typically higher than train or bus but can save time and provide a smoother experience.
Combined costs and commuter benefits
There is no single ticket that covers every agency end to end. Many commuters mix an NJ TRANSIT monthly pass with separate PATH or ferry products. Ask your employer about pre‑tax commuter benefits, which can significantly lower your monthly costs.
Parking and permits
Many station lots and county‑run park‑and‑ride facilities require permits or daily fees. Rules and availability vary by location. Check for permit details, enforcement hours, and overnight restrictions before you commit to a routine.
Parking and park‑and‑ride tips
- Arrive early: Smaller lots can fill before peak hours. A monthly permit can help lock in consistency.
- Verify rules: Each lot has its own payment process, operating hours, and enforcement. Learn the details to avoid tickets.
- Identify backups: Keep a secondary lot or garage in mind in case your first choice is full.
- Mind overnight and weekend rules: Not all lots allow overnight parking or have the same policy on weekends.
Timing, transfers, and tools
- Build a buffer: Plan 5 to 15 minutes for transfers. Missed connections can stretch your commute.
- Use real‑time tools: The NJ TRANSIT app, PATH alerts, transit apps, and mapping tools help you react to delays.
- Expect crowding at rush: Peak trains and buses can fill quickly. Boarding earlier or at a park‑and‑ride hub can help.
- Accessibility and bikes: Many stations are accessible, but confirm elevator status and ADA features. Bikes are allowed on most NJ TRANSIT trains with peak‑hour limits, and PATH and ferries have their own policies.
- Safety and comfort: Larger hubs like Hoboken Terminal and Secaucus Junction have staff and security. If you park in smaller lots early or late, factor in lighting and personal comfort.
Sample River Edge commute plans
Plan A: Rail to Hoboken, PATH to Midtown or WTC
- Steps: NJ TRANSIT to Hoboken Terminal, transfer to PATH 33rd Street or WTC. Walk or subway to your office.
- Time: About 40 to 70 minutes total, depending on transfer timing and final destination.
- Pros: Multiple options from Hoboken, good backups during service changes.
- Confirm before you go:
- NJ TRANSIT rail schedule and service alerts
- PATH schedule and alerts
- Ferry status from Hoboken as a backup option
Plan B: Rail via Secaucus to New York Penn Station
- Steps: NJ TRANSIT to Secaucus Junction, transfer to a Midtown service arriving at New York Penn Station.
- Time: About 35 to 60 minutes with a smooth transfer.
- Pros: Direct arrival in Midtown’s core with easy subway access.
- Confirm before you go:
- NJ TRANSIT rail schedule, transfer times at Secaucus, and alerts
- Subway transfer plan from Penn Station to your office
Plan C: Drive to park‑and‑ride, express bus to Port Authority
- Steps: Drive to a Bergen County park‑and‑ride or local hub, board an express bus to Port Authority.
- Time: About 35 to 70+ minutes depending on traffic and boarding location.
- Pros: One‑seat ride into Midtown. No train transfers.
- Confirm before you go:
- Bus timetable and service notices
- Park‑and‑ride permit requirements, hours, and fees
- Backup bus stops in case a lot is full
Plan D: Drive to Weehawken or Hoboken, then ferry
- Steps: Drive to a ferry terminal, park, take the ferry to Midtown or Downtown.
- Time: About 40 to 70 minutes including parking and transfer time.
- Pros: Comfortable ride, scenic, and a predictable Hudson crossing.
- Confirm before you go:
- Ferry schedule and landing closest to your office
- Parking availability and daily or monthly rates
- Alternate route if the ferry has weather‑related changes
When to change your routine
- Major service changes: Construction, incidents, or severe weather can affect rail, bus, and ferries. Having a backup plan prevents surprises.
- Seasonal shifts: Peak and off‑peak schedules change. Re‑check timetables after holidays or schedule updates.
- New office location: If you switch from Downtown to Midtown, consider switching from Hoboken transfers to a Penn Station or Port Authority route.
Make commuting part of your home search
Your commute affects your daily rhythm and your housing priorities. If you want to be near a station, prefer a certain park‑and‑ride, or need flexible access to multiple routes, include those in your search criteria. A home that lines up with your ideal commute can save you hours each week.
If you are planning a move in Bergen County and want expert guidance on neighborhoods, commute options, and value, reach out to Keren Abraham. You will get a tailored plan, local insight, and hands‑on help to make it happen.
FAQs
Is rail or bus faster from River Edge to Midtown?
- It depends on time of day and your exact destination. Rail via Secaucus to Penn Station can be efficient for 34th Street, while express buses to Port Authority can be very direct but are more sensitive to traffic.
Do trains from River Edge go directly to New York Penn Station?
- Some Bergen County services require a transfer at Secaucus Junction to reach Penn Station. Service patterns can change, so always confirm current schedules.
Where can I park for the bus or train near River Edge?
- Many station lots and county park‑and‑ride facilities are available, often with permits or daily fees. Check rules, availability, and enforcement before you go.
How much does a monthly commute from River Edge cost?
- Costs vary by mode and pass type. Many commuters use an NJ TRANSIT monthly pass and pay separately for PATH or ferries. Confirm current fares and consider pre‑tax commuter benefits.
What if there are NJ TRANSIT service disruptions?
- Review official alerts and switch to an alternate route such as express buses, ferries from Hoboken or Weehawken, or a different rail transfer. Keep a backup plan in mind.
Are bikes allowed on trains, PATH, or ferries?
- Bicycles are allowed with restrictions that vary by operator and time of day. Check each service’s bike policy, especially during peak hours.
