How Much to Tip: The Complete 2026 Guide
Tipping culture has expanded. Here is what is expected — and what is optional — in every situation.
Sit-down restaurant: 15-20% (20% is the modern standard for good service). Counter service/coffee: $1-2 or 10-15% (optional but appreciated). Delivery (food): 15-20%, minimum $3-5. Bartender: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of tab. Uber/Lyft: 15-20%. Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per night. Hairdresser: 15-20%. Movers: $20-50 per mover. Massage therapist: 15-20%.
When Tipping Is Not Expected
Takeout from a restaurant (optional, $1-3 is generous). Retail store employees. Hotel front desk staff (unless they do something exceptional). Fast food drive-through. Auto mechanics. Doctors and dentists (never). The expansion of tipping to every transaction with a screen is called tipflation — you are not obligated to tip for counter service where you pour your own coffee.