Tipping Guide USA: Common Ranges for Everyday Services
Updated September 2026 · 4 min read
Tipping practices in the United States are shaped by local custom, venue policy, and the kind of service. This is a practical reference, not a mandatory rulebook. For step-by-step percentages, examples, and bill splitting, see How to Calculate a Tip.
Common reference ranges
| Service | Common reference | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | Often 15–20% | Check the bill for an included service charge. |
| Fast casual / counter service | Optional | Practices vary by location and service. |
| Bar | Often $1–2 per drink or a percentage | Consider the service and local norms. |
| Coffee shop | Optional | A tip jar does not necessarily mean a tip is expected. |
| Food delivery | Often a percentage or flat amount | Distance, weather, and order size can affect the choice. |
| Rideshare or taxi | Optional; common ranges vary | Review in-app prompts and local practice. |
| Hotel housekeeping | Varies | Some guests leave a daily amount; policies differ. |
| Salon, barber, or nail service | Often a percentage | Check whether a service fee is already included. |
| Mover or valet | Varies | A flat amount is common in some locations. |
Before you pay
- Check whether gratuity, service, delivery, or resort fees are already included.
- Use the subtotal or final total that matches your preference; both are commonly used.
- For a group, agree whether shared items and fees are split evenly before calculating the tip.
- When in doubt, ask the venue how a listed charge is handled.
Quick tip math
To estimate 20%, find 10% of the bill by moving the decimal one place left, then double it. For a 15% estimate, add half of the 10% amount. A calculator is useful for custom percentages, exact totals, and uneven group splits.
Frequently asked questions
Is there one correct tip percentage in the US?
No. Tipping customs differ by service, city, and venue. The ranges in this guide are common references, not rules or legal requirements.
Should I tip before or after tax?
Both approaches are used. If you want to follow a pre-tax subtotal, use it consistently; if you use the total for simplicity, the difference is usually modest.
What should I check before adding a tip?
Look for an automatic gratuity or service charge, especially for groups. Read the bill carefully before adding an additional amount.
Calculate the exact total
Enter the bill, choose a percentage, and see the tip, total, and per-person split together.
Use the Tip Calculator