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Tipping customs vary by country, service type, and quality of service. Here's a general guide for tipping in the United States:
| Service | Suggested Tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Server | 15-20% of the bill before tax |
| Bartender | $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of tab |
| Food Delivery | 10-15% of the bill, minimum $2-5 |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 15-20% of fare |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $2-5 per day |
| Hairdresser/Barber | 15-20% of service cost |
The basic formula for calculating a tip is:
Tip Amount = Bill Amount × (Tip Percentage / 100)
For example, a 15% tip on a $50 bill would be $50 × (15/100) = $7.50
Tipping practices vary considerably around the world. In some countries, tipping is not customary or may even be considered rude. Before traveling, research local tipping customs for your destination.
Calculate percentages, percentage change, and percentage difference between two numbers.
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Tipping is a cultural and economic practice that varies significantly around the world, serving as a supplementary payment to service workers beyond their base wage. In countries like the United States and Canada, tipping is deeply embedded in the service economy, particularly in restaurants, hospitality, and personal services. This practice emerged historically from European traditions and evolved in North America during the 19th and 20th centuries. The standard restaurant tip in the U.S. has gradually increased from around 10% in the mid-20th century to 15-20% today, with many service professionals relying on tips for a substantial portion of their income due to lower base wages allowed under labor laws for tipped employees.
The calculation of an appropriate tip involves several considerations beyond the standard percentage. The quality of service received typically influences the tip amount, with exceptional service warranting higher percentages. Different service categories often have distinct tipping conventions—restaurant servers might expect 15-20% of the pre-tax bill, while hotel housekeeping might receive a flat daily rate, and hairstylists or taxi drivers might have their own industry standards. Group dining introduces additional complexity with automatic gratuities sometimes applied for larger parties, while digital payment platforms have implemented suggested tip options that can influence tipping behavior through anchoring effects.
Modern tipping practices continue to evolve with technological and social changes. Digital payment systems have introduced new dynamics through preset tip options and the ability to tip remotely or after service. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted increased tipping in many sectors as consumers sought to support essential workers. Meanwhile, some restaurants have explored alternative compensation models, including service-inclusive pricing that eliminates tipping altogether in favor of higher base wages. These experiments reflect ongoing discussions about the equity, predictability, and social psychology of tipping systems. Understanding regional tipping norms, service contexts, and calculation methods helps consumers navigate this complex social custom while ensuring fair compensation for service providers.