Tipping Guide USA: How Much to Tip in Every Situation
Updated June 2026 - 5 min read
Tipping in the US is customary, not legally required - but in many industries it forms a significant part of workers' income. This guide covers standard tip amounts for the most common service situations so you always know what is expected.
Tip Reference Table
| Service | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18-20% | 20% is standard for good service |
| Fast casual / counter service | 0-10% | Optional; tip for exceptional service |
| Buffet restaurant | 5-10% | Server refills drinks and clears plates |
| Bar (drinks) | $1-2 per drink or 15-20% | Higher for complex cocktails |
| Coffee shop | Optional $0.50-$1 | Tip jar; not required |
| Food delivery | 15-20% (min $3-5) | More for bad weather or large orders |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 10-20% | Tip in-app after the ride |
| Taxi | 15-20% | Round up for short trips |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2-5 per night | Leave daily; staff may change each day |
| Hotel bellhop / valet | $2-5 per bag / per retrieval | Tip when receiving the car |
| Hair salon | 15-20% | Tip the stylist directly |
| Barber | 15-20% | Same as salon |
| Nail salon | 15-20% | Tip each technician separately if different |
| Massage therapist | 15-20% | Even at medical spas |
| Tattoo artist | 15-20% | More for complex custom work |
| Movers | $20-50 per mover | More for long or difficult moves |
| Food truck | 10-15% | Optional but appreciated |
Quick Mental Math Tricks
- 20% tip: Move the decimal one place left (10%), then double it. On a $45 bill: $4.50 x 2 = $9.00.
- 15% tip: Find 10% (move decimal left), then add half. On $60: $6.00 + $3.00 = $9.00.
- Pre-tax or post-tax? It is customary to tip on the pre-tax subtotal, though many people tip on the total for simplicity.
- Split bills: Tip on the full bill first, then divide. Splitting the tip before calculating can shortchange the server.
When It Is OK Not to Tip
Tipping is not expected for self-service purchases (grocery stores, gas stations, automated checkout kiosks), fast food counters where you order and pick up your own food, and professional services billed at full rate (doctors, lawyers, accountants). If a service charge is already included in the bill, you do not need to add more - though you can if the service was exceptional.
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