Tips & Tipping
United States
Tipping summary
Tipping is deeply embedded in American service culture. At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard; bars often expect $1-2 per drink or 15-20% on a tab; taxis and rideshares commonly receive 15-20%.
Cards vs. Cash
Cards are accepted virtually everywhere: restaurants, stores, taxis, and many street vendors. Contactless and tap-to-pay are widespread. Cash is useful for tips, small local businesses, parking, and informal markets, but rarely required in cities.
Currency Converter
By situation
Restaurants
18-20%
At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard. Check for automatic gratuity on large groups or tourist-heavy restaurants.
Bars
$1-2 per drink or 15-20%
Tip $1 for beer or simple drinks, $2 for cocktails, or 15-20% when running a tab.
Taxis & rideshares
15-20%
Uber and Lyft prompt in-app. Traditional taxis also expect a tip, often in cash or on card.
Hotel staff
$1-2/bag; $2-5/night
Tip bellhops per bag and housekeeping per night. Concierge help for reservations or tickets may merit $5-20.
Coffee shops
$1-2
Digital tip prompts are common. Tipping is appreciated for specialty drinks but optional for simple counter orders.
Tour guides
$10-20 per person or 15-20%
Free walking tours rely on tips. For paid tours, 15-20% or a flat amount is common.