I am planning a late October vacation in NYC. We will be staying near Carnegie Hall and arriving at JFK early Saturday morning with minimal luggage. After reading the boards, I think my first option for airport transfer is the Airtrain to Jamaica and then the E train to 7 Avenue followed by a 3 block walk. This is based solely on looking at web info. I would appreciate any input from NYC Fodors members. Is this a good choice? Better options?

If you don't mind the schlep, I think that's probably right.

Yes, that's a good combination of cheap and relatively fast - the worst part will be waiting for the trains - fewer trains run on weekends, and it can be 10 minutes or more between trains.. You should probably check the MTA site a few days beforehand, to check on service advisories - often weekend subway travel is disrupted due to construction. Check under service advisories:
http://www.mta.info/nyct/service/advisory.htm

A cab from the airport is a flat fee of $45. plus tolls.

Practice, practice.

funny, EricH!

Thank you for the advice. I will check for the subway advisories prior to departure. Practice advice - I have yet to figure out.

Joke:

How do you get to Carnegie Hall?

Practice, practice, practice

(Pretending the person is not asking for directions but asking how to get there as a performer.)

Got it.

If you can manage your luggage up and down stairs it's an ok choice. Your other public transit option is the Express Bus ($15/person) to Port Authority bus terminal (42 &8th) and then taxi or subway.
http://www.nyairportservice.com/