How Much to Tip in United States (2026 Guide)
How Much to Tip in United States (2026 Guide)Tipping is deeply expected in the United States, where service workers are often paid below minimum wage and rely on tips. Tip 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $1–2 per bag for porters. Not tipping is considered rude.
Tip amounts in United States
| Service | Typical tip & range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants |
18% typical · 15–20%
|
Standard sit-down dining. 20%+ for excellent service. Tip is calculated on the pre-tax total. |
| Bars & Cafés |
18% typical · 15–20%
|
Or $1–2 per drink for simple orders. Tip when running a tab. |
| Taxis & Rideshare |
15% typical · 10–20%
|
Round up and add ~15%. Rideshare apps let you tip in-app. |
| Hotel Porters | 1–2 USD /bag | $1–2 per bag, given on delivery to your room. |
| Housekeeping | 2–5 USD /night | $2–5 per night, left daily with a note so it is recognised as a tip. |
| Spa & Salon |
18% typical · 15–20%
|
On the pre-discount price; some spas add an automatic service charge. |
| Hairdressers |
18% typical · 15–20%
|
Tip the stylist directly; $5+ for the person who washes your hair. |
| Tour Guides |
15% typical · 10–20%
|
For a day tour, 15–20%. Free walking tours: $10–20 per person. |
| Airport Transfers |
15% typical · 10–20%
|
Or $5–10 for a shared shuttle; more if the driver handles luggage. |
| Food Delivery |
15% typical · 10–20%
|
Minimum $3–5 even on small orders; more in bad weather. |
Spending in United States
The local currency is the US dollar ($, USD), pronounced “DOL-ler”. One US dollar = 100 cents.
Approximate, updated daily — for guidance only, not a live exchange rate.
Local tipping customs
- Cash or card? Card tipping is widely accepted, and cash is always welcome.
- Card-machine prompts: Card terminals commonly prompt you to add a tip.
- Tipping culture: Tipping is expected in United States and is an important part of service workers' pay.
City-specific guides
Tipping in United States: FAQs
Is tipping expected in United States?
Yes — tipping is expected in United States and forms an important part of service workers' income. Tipping is deeply expected in the United States, where service workers are often paid below minimum wage and rely on tips. Tip 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $1–2 per bag for porters. Not tipping is considered rude.
How much should I tip at a restaurant in United States?
Around 18% is typical (roughly 15–2%). Standard sit-down dining. 20%+ for excellent service. Tip is calculated on the pre-tax total.
Do you tip taxi drivers in United States?
It is common to round the fare up or add about 15% in United States. Round up and add ~15%. Rideshare apps let you tip in-app.
Should I tip in cash or by card in United States?
Both work in United States: card tipping is widely accepted, and cash is always welcome for staff who rely on tips.
How much do you tip hotel housekeeping in United States?
Leave $2–$5 per night for hotel housekeeping. $2–5 per night, left daily with a note so it is recognised as a tip.
Is a service charge included in United States?
A service charge is not usually added except for large groups (often 18–20% "gratuity"). Always check the bill so you do not tip twice.
Do you tip tour guides in United States?
In United States: For a day tour, 15–20%. Free walking tours: $10–20 per person.
Why is tipping so important in the US?
Many tipped workers earn a "tipped minimum wage" as low as $2.13/hour federally, with tips making up the rest of their income. Your tip is a core part of their pay, not a bonus.
What happens if I don't tip in America?
It is considered rude and servers may follow up. Only withhold a tip for genuinely poor service — and even then 10% is the usual floor.
Do I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Customarily on the pre-tax subtotal, though many people simply tip on the total for ease. Either is acceptable.
Should I tip on takeout?
It is optional. Many people round up or leave 10% if staff prepared or bagged a large order, but it is not expected for simple counter pickup.