You can cut the NJTransit to/from EWR cost to around $12 by buying a 10-trip. Note you do have to pay $120.50 in advance.

PATH makes sense if you have time. That said, on weekends, and if your final destination is NOT on the WTC PATH line, the combination of 62 bus and two separate PATH trains take A LOT more than Airtrain + NJTransit. Yes, NJ Transit also has less trains on weekends, but every transfer and waiting time between 62, WTC PATH and 33rd/HOB PATH usually take hours to get into NYC and vice versa to the airport.

​​​​​​As mentioned, if you have time on hand, 62 bus + PATH is a super affordable way traveling to/from the airport.

So far in 2024, I have visited EWR every week, and have taken both modes of transport based on timing and cost. You just have to play the game to your advantage.

Also to be fair, the Air train EWR station scanners have improved. You now no longer have to have those electronic tickets facing the scanner anymore; the response time has been much quicker as well.