How Much Should You Tip? A Practical Guide by Situation
September 18, 2026
In the US, 15-20% is standard for sit-down restaurant service, with 18-20% increasingly common for good service. Tipping norms vary significantly by service type and by country, so 'how much should I tip' really depends on where and for what.
Skip the math and get your answer instantly:
Open the Tip Calculator →US Tipping Guide by Situation
| Situation | Typical Tip |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 15-20% of pre-tax bill |
| Food delivery | 15-20%, $5 minimum for small orders |
| Coffee shop / counter service | Optional, $1 or round up |
| Hair salon / barber | 15-20% |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10-15% |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2-5 per night |
Should You Tip on the Pre-Tax or Post-Tax Total?
Etiquette generally calls for tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total after sales tax is added — though the difference is small on most bills, and tipping on the post-tax total isn't considered rude, just slightly more generous.
Tipping Norms Vary Widely by Country
Tipping culture is largely a US and Canada norm. In many European countries, service is often included in the bill, and rounding up or leaving small change is more typical than a percentage tip. In Japan, tipping is not customary and can even be considered awkward. When traveling, it's worth checking local norms rather than assuming US-style tipping applies everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 15% or 20% the standard restaurant tip?
Both are commonly cited — 15% is a traditional baseline for adequate service, while 18-20% has become increasingly standard for good service in many US cities.
Should I tip on the total before or after tax?
Tipping etiquette generally calls for calculating the tip on the pre-tax subtotal, though tipping on the post-tax total is not considered wrong, just slightly more generous.
Do I need to tip for counter service or takeout?
It's optional and appreciated rather than expected — many people round up or leave a dollar or two, especially if a tip jar or digital prompt is present, but it's not a strict social expectation like sit-down dining.
How do I split a tip between multiple people at a table?
Calculate the total tip on the full bill, then divide that tip amount (or the full bill plus tip) evenly by the number of people, unless splitting by individual items ordered.
Is tipping expected outside the US?
It varies significantly — many European countries include service in the price and treat tipping as optional rounding, while in some countries like Japan, tipping isn't customary at all. Check local norms before traveling rather than assuming US practices apply.