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NYC Subway Lines Guide with Route Details
73 train in IslandThe NYC Subway Lines are one of the busiest and largest rapid transit networks in the world. It's a massive network of numbered and lettered subway lines operated by the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) that connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The system has been in operation since 190,4 and it has become an “all the time” lifeline for millions of New Yorkers and tourists.
Whether you are a first-timer or a commuter, knowing NYC subway lines, routes, es and transfer stations is key to getting around the city quickly and cheaply. This guide covers all subway lines, interpreting the map, fare options, and tifor to riding like a local.
NYC Subway Lines : Complete List
The NYC subway consists of 25+ lines, numbered and color-coded. In Manhattan, in general, lines of similar colour follow the same corridor, but in the outer boroughs, the lines are distinct.
Numbered Lines (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
- 1, 2, 3 (Red Line) – The Broadway–7th Avenue Line, which connects Manhattan's West Side, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.
- 4, 5, 6 (Green Line) – Lexington Avenue Line, which runs through the East Side of Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.
- 7 (Purple Line) – Flushing Line: runs from Manhattan to Queens, passing Chinatown in Flushing and Citi Field.
Lettered Lines (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, J, L, M, N, Q, R, W, Z)
- A, C, E (Blue Line) – Eighth Avenue Line, A train is known for its long journeys into Queens (Rockaway) and Brooklyn
- B, D, F, M (Orange Line) – Sixth Avenue Line to the Bronx, Brooklyn,n and Queens.
- G (Light Green Line) – Crosstown Line, meaning it is the only line NOT running into Manhattan, but as it goes from Brooklyn to Queens.
- J, Z (Brown Line) – Nassau Street Line, extending between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.
- L (Grey Line) – Canarsie Line: This line is a popular route for commuters between Manhattan's East Village and Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Bushwick.
- N, Q, R, W (Yellow Line) – Astoria Line, Coney Island Line, Broadway Line, Manhattan Line, Brooklyn Line, Queens Line.
Shuttle Lines
- S (42nd Street Shuttle) – Connects Times Square to Grand Central.
- S (Franklin Avenue Shuttle) – Runs within Brooklyn.
- S (Rockaway Park Shuttle) – Connects Queens' Rockaway Peninsula.
Subway Lines by Borough
Manhattan Subway Lines
The subway system has its headquarters in Manhattan, the city center, and almost all the lines pass through there. The 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, A, C, E, B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W, L, and 7 trains run from the Financial District to Harlem.
Brooklyn Subway Lines
There are lines like the A, C, F, G, L, N, Q, R, and 2, 3, 4, 5 trains which run between Brooklyn and Manhattan, including Williamsburg, Park Slope, Coney Islan,d and Brooklyn Heights.
Queens Subway Lines
The 7 train, as well as 73traininsIsland, ns E, F, G, J, M, N, R, W, and Z trains connect neighborhoods in Queensns such as Astoria, Flushing, Jamaica, and Long Island , Cit,y to the rest of the city.
Bronx Subway Lines
The Bronx is accessible by the 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, B, and D trains, to Yankee Stadium, Fordham, and Pelham Bay Park.
Staten Island Railway
The Staten Island Railway (SIR) is not included in the subway map colours, but it is a connection to the subway system and links to Whitehall Street station in Manhattan from the Staten Island ferry.
Major Subway Hubs & Transfer Stations
Some stations act as critical transfer points where multiple lines intersect:
- Times Square–42nd Street – 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S
- Grand Central–42nd Street – 4, 5, 6, 7, S
- Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center – 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, R
- Fulton Street – A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5
- Jay Street–MetroTech – A, C, F, R
Knowing these hubs helps you switch lines efficiently without unnecessary backtracking.
Subway Fares & Payment Options
OMNY vs MetroCard
The MTA has implemented the OMNY payment system, which is a contactless system that lets riders use their smart card, smartwatch, or smartphone at the turnstile. The traditional MetroCard is being phased out and is still accepted.
Fare Prices and Unlimited Passes
- Standard single-ride fare applies per subway entry.
- 7-Day Unlimited and 30-Day Unlimited passes are available for frequent riders.
- OMNY automatically caps weekly fares once you've taken enough rides, similar to an unlimited pass — without needing to purchase one in advance.
Subway Hours & Service Schedule
24/7 Service Explained
The NYC subway runs around the clock, 7 days a week, unlike most major cities,, and is one of the few public transit systems in the world to do so.
Late-Night and Weekend Service Changes
Service patterns may change late at night and on weekends as a result of maintenance work. Routes can be rerouted or bypass one or more stations or temporarily combine routes. Be sure to check the MTA app or station announcements for the most up-to-date service alerts before late-night travel.
Recent Changes & Service Updates (2026)
The MTA is still modernizing all its subway lines, such as accessibility features, signal systems, and station overhauls. It's important for riders to keep an eye on the official MTA website or app for the latest updates on service changes, new accessibility features,,s and any line extensions that may impact their commute.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many subway lines are there in NYC?
There are 25+ individual subway lines in NYC, grouped into color-coded corridors such as red (1, 2, 3), blue (A, C, E), and yellow (N, Q, R, W).
2. What is the difference between express and local subway trains in NYC?
Local trains run at all stations on their route and express trains skseveral of stations to provide quicker travel between major stations.
3. Which subway line is the busiest in NYC?
Trains on the Lexington Avenue Line are among the busiest of all the lines in Manhattan, as there is a high ridership on the East Side of the city.
4. How much does the NYC subway cost in 2026?
Fares are pay-as-you-go, with weekly and monthly passesfor late-nightt unlimited rides. Automatic fare capping is also available for frequent riders with OMNY.
5. Does the NYC subway run 24 hours?
Yes! The NYC subway does run around the clock, but some lines are limited in late night service, or it is altered in certain ways.
Andreja Osterc
New York, USA
Andreja Osterc is a travel blogger based in New York City, known for exploring the city through one of its most iconic systems—the New York City Subway. With a deep curiosity for urban life and local culture, Andreja created a blog dedicated to helping residents and visitors navigate the subway while discovering the hidden stories of the city.
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