United States Tipping Guide
Currency: US Dollar ($ USD) | Customs: Commonly Expected
In the United States, tipping is an integral part of the service economy. Under federal and state labor laws, waitstaff and bartenders often receive a lower base direct wage known as the "tipped minimum wage," with tips making up the primary portion of their income. Because of this economic structure, tipping is universally expected for personal services unless service was unacceptably deficient.
Standard US Tipping Guidelines by Service
1. Restaurants & Bars
- Full-Service Sit-Down Dining: 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill. 15% is considered baseline for acceptable service, 18% is typical/average, and 20% or higher is standard for great service.
- Buffets: 10% or $1 to $2 per person for servers clearing plates and refilling beverages.
- Bars & Pubs: $1 to $2 per beer, wine, or simple drink; 15% to 20% of the total bar tab for handcrafted cocktails.
- Coffee Shops: Optional, but $1 or rounding up to the nearest dollar is appreciated for barista-crafted specialty beverages.
2. Hotels & Hospitality
- Housekeeping: $2 to $5 per night. Leave cash daily in a clearly marked envelope or note, as cleaning crews rotate.
- Bellhops & Porters: $2 to $5 per bag when luggage is delivered to your room.
- Valet Parking: $2 to $5 upon the return of your vehicle.
- Concierge: $5 to $15 for securing difficult dinner reservations, event tickets, or personalized itineraries. No tip required for simple directions.
3. Taxis, Rideshares & Food Delivery
- Taxis & Rideshares (Uber / Lyft): 15% to 20% of the fare.
- Food Delivery Drivers: 15% to 20% (minimum $3 to $5), with higher amounts during inclement weather or late-night hours.
4. Personal Care, Salons & Spas
- Hair Salons & Barbers: 15% to 20% of the service total.
- Massage & Spa Treatments: 18% to 20%. Note: Check if an 18%-20% automatic resort/service fee is already included on the final invoice.
Understanding Service Charges & Auto-Gratuity in the US
Many American restaurants automatically add an "auto-gratuity" (typically 18% to 20%) to tables of 6 or more guests, as well as in major tourist destinations like Miami Beach and New York City.
Always check your receipt carefully for lines labeled "Gratuity Included", "Service Charge", or "Auto-Grat". If this amount is already factored into the final total, you are not obligated to leave an additional tip unless you experienced truly exceptional hospitality.