I’m from NY, an accountant and now live in Baltimore.. I wouldn’t expect a NYC employer to reimburse you for any travel. I’d also be worried about state taxes as the traveling will show the job should be technically based in NY. States have and will continue to crack down harder on this rule since COVID. You might end paying a lot in taxes and still stuck on whatever transportation you decide to take..

also the correct answer truly depends on where you are going in NYC. Best way might be fly to NWK and take Path to downtown Manhattan if going to Wall Street or SoHo. Anywhere midtown or above take the train. The Baltimore COLA vs NYC salary if negotiated correctly should negate any money saved by taking a more painful way.

Also, are you staying in NYC overnight? The hotels airbnbs and meals will be more expensive than any of this transportation bs.