🇺🇸 US Tipping Culture & Etiquette
Tipping is a deeply ingrained part of the American service economy. Unlike many other countries where service charges are included, in the US tips are the primary income for many service workers. Here's a guide to when and how much to tip.
When to Tip 15%
- Standard restaurant service:
- Buffets:
- Food delivery:
- Large groups with auto-gratuity.
When to Tip 20%
- Good-to-excellent restaurant service, Attentive, friendly, accurate service, this is the new baseline at sit-down restaurants
- Bar service:
- Hair salons & barbers:
- Ride shares (Uber/Lyft/taxi):
- Hotel housekeeping:
When to Tip 25% or More
- Exceptional service:
- High-end restaurants:
- Personal services, Massage therapists, personal trainers, tattoo artists, 20 - 25%
- During holidays:
Quick rule of thumb: Double the tax on your bill for a rough 15 - 20% tip. Or move the decimal one place left on your total and double it for 20%. Example: $85.00 → $8.50 → ×2 = $17.00 tip.
Who to Tip (and Who Not To)
- Waitstaff, bartenders, baristas, valet parking ($2 - 5), hotel bellhops ($1 - 2/bag), concierge ($5 - 20 for special service), movers ($20 - 40 each), tour guides (15 - 20%)
- Fast food, takeout counter (optional), retail staff, Starbucks drive-through (optional), doctors, lawyers, teachers (gifts, not cash tips)
Tipping Etiquette Tips
- Cash is king.
- Tip on the pre-tax amount.
- Be discreet:
- Check your bill:
- Tip jars: