How much to tip in the US (2026 norms)
- Sit-down restaurant: 18-20% (minimum 15% for poor service)
- Delivery (DoorDash, UberEats): 15-20% minimum $3-5
- Bartender: $1-2 per drink OR 15-20% of tab
- Coffee counter: 10-15% if complex drink, $1 for basic
- Hair stylist / barber: 15-20% on total service
- Nail tech, massage therapist: 15-20%
- Taxi / Uber / Lyft: 15-20%
- Buffet: 10% (server is just refilling drinks)
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5/night, left daily
- Valet: $2-5 when car returned
- Pizza delivery: $3-5 or 15%, whichever is higher
Should you tip on pre-tax or post-tax total?
Historically pre-tax. Some restaurants now pre-fill suggested tips on the post-tax total โ a sneaky ~8% boost. Either is socially acceptable; pre-tax is fairer to you. If the bill is prix-fixe and tax is relatively small, the difference is negligible.
Large party gratuity
Many restaurants auto-add 18-20% gratuity for groups of 6+. Check the bill โ you don't have to tip extra if gratuity is already included.
Tipping abroad
Tipping norms vary wildly. Japan: don't tip (can be offensive). UK/Europe: 10-12% if not already included as service charge. Australia/NZ: not expected. Mexico/Caribbean: 10-15%. When in doubt, check the bill for "service charge included."