Tipping in United States
Bottom line
Tipping is a major part of service-worker income. Tip generously and in cash.
Tipping at a glance
Restaurants (sit-down)
18-22%
Tipping is a primary income — under-tipping hurts servers directly.
Taxis / rideshare
15-20%
Hotel housekeeping
$2-5/day
Hotel porter / bag handler
$2-3/bag
Bars & cafés
$1-2/drink or 15-20%
Cultural context
Tipping is mandatory and expected at almost every service interaction. Always tip in cash when possible — server keeps more of it. Tip the bartender, the valet, the doorman, the food-delivery person, the airport shuttle driver, your hairdresser, your tour guide. The few exceptions: fast-food counter, retail, taxi to/from airport (driver picks the route).