🇺🇸 United States Tipping Guide
📋 Quick Facts
- Currency: US Dollar (USD $)
- Tipping Culture: Expected (15-25%)
- Service Charges: Rarely included
- Unique Custom: Tip jars at counters
🍽️ Restaurant Tipping (1,200 words)
In the United States, tipping is not just customary - it's an essential part of service workers' income. The standard restaurant tip ranges from 15% to 25% of the pre-tax bill, with 20% becoming the new norm in most urban areas.
Detailed Breakdown:
1. Sit-Down Restaurants: Servers typically earn below minimum wage (as low as $2.13/hour in some states), with tips making up most of their income. Always tip 15-20% for decent service, 25% for exceptional service.
2. Fast Casual: For places where you order at a counter but food is brought to you (like Chipotle), tipping 10-15% is appreciated but not mandatory.
3. Delivery: Food delivery should receive 15-20% or $5 minimum, plus extra for bad weather. Remember they use their own vehicles.
🚕 Transportation (300 words)
Taxis/Rideshares: Tip 15-20% or round up to nearest $5. For Uber/Lyft, tip through the app or cash ($1-2 for short rides, 15-20% for long).
Valet: $2-5 when your car is returned.
🏨 Hotels (400 words)
Housekeeping: $3-5 per night (leave daily with a note saying "For Housekeeping")
Bellhops: $2 per bag
Concierge: $5-20 for special services
💈 Personal Services
Hair/Nails: 15-20% of service cost
Tattoo Artists: 15-25% (cash preferred)