Standard Tipping Guide by Service
| Service | Standard Tip | Excellent Service |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18–20% | 22–25% |
| Food delivery | $3–5 or 15% | $6–8 |
| Bartender | $1–2 per drink | 20% of tab |
| Hair salon / barber | 15–20% | 25% |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5/night | $5–10/night |
| Taxi / rideshare | 15–20% | 20–25% |
| Massage therapist | 15–20% | 25% |
| Coffee shop (counter) | $0.50–$1 | $1–2 |
The Quick Mental Math Trick
To calculate 20% quickly: move the decimal one place left (= 10%), then double it.
Example: $47.50 bill → $4.75 × 2 = $9.50 tip. Your total is $57.00.
For 15%: calculate 10% then add half of that. $47.50 → $4.75 + $2.38 = $7.13 tip.
Do You Have to Tip? The Honest Answer
Tipping is voluntary but socially expected in the US for most in-person services. In tipped industries, workers often earn below minimum wage with tips making up the difference. Not tipping your server at a restaurant costs them money they earned.
You are never obligated to tip for counter service, self-checkout, or digital kiosks — those tip prompts are purely optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard tip percentage in 2026?
18–20% is now the standard for sit-down restaurants. 15% is considered below average. For exceptional service, 22–25% is appropriate.
Should you tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Etiquette suggests tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, though most people tip on the total. The difference on a $50 meal is about $0.50–$1.00, so either is acceptable.
Is it rude not to tip at a coffee shop?
No — tipping at counter-service coffee shops is optional. A $0.50–$1 tip is appreciated if they prepared a complex drink or gave great service, but it is not expected.
Ready to calculate?
Free, instant, no login needed.
Calculate My Tip Instantly