Tipping Culture in the USA: A Must for Good Service

In the United States, tipping is not just a courtesy but an essential part of many service workers’ income. In restaurants, it is customary to tip 15% to 20% of the bill, with high-end establishments expecting up to 25%. Since servers often earn a low base salary, they rely heavily on tips.At bars, tipping $1–$2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill is standard. Taxi drivers also expect 15–20%, while hotel bellhops usually receive $1–$5 per bag and housekeeping staff $2–$5 per night. Hairdressers and other personal service providers should also be tipped within the same range.One important detail: Some restaurants automatically include gratuity, especially for groups of six or more. Always check the bill to avoid double tipping. Credit card receipts often have a separate line for tipping, making it easy to add the desired amount. In the U.S., tipping generously is seen as a sign of appreciation for good service.