Tipping in the USA
ExpectedRestaurants: 18–20%Currency: USD
Tipping is expected across the US service industry. Many restaurant servers earn a tipped minimum wage as low as $2.13 an hour under federal law, so the tip is a core part of their pay. Plan on 18–20% at restaurants.
Tip$0.00
- Total with tip
- $0.00
0
5
10
15
20
25
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20
Within the 15–20% range in the United States.
How much to tip in United States, by service
| Service | Custom |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18–20% |
| Bartender | $1–2 per drink |
| Taxi or rideshare | 15–20% |
| Food delivery | 15–20%, min $3–5 |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5 per night |
| Hairdresser or barber | 15–20% |
| Counter service / takeout | Optional |
Local know-how
- Prices exclude sales tax; the tip is usually calculated on the pre-tax subtotal.
- Look for "gratuity included" on bills for groups of 6 or more.
Questions people ask
Why is tipping so high in the US?
Federal law lets employers pay tipped workers $2.13 an hour in cash wages, provided tips bring them up to the $7.25 minimum. Some states require the full minimum wage before tips.
Do tourists have to tip in the US?
Yes. Service workers are paid assuming tips, and the norms apply to visitors too.