Published on 29 January 2024,. Last updated on 25 May 2025,
New York Info
Visiting New York is an unforgettable experience. However, many tourists are surprised by the local tipping culture. While tipping may be optional in some countries, in New York it’s almost a social requirement. In this blog, we’ll clearly explain how tipping in New York works—so you know exactly what to expect and what’s expected of you.
Why Is Tipping in New York So Important?
In New York, tipping is not just a bonus—it’s a core part of the service economy. Many workers, especially in hospitality, earn a lower base wage. Tips make up a significant portion of their income.
Moreover, tipping is also seen as a sign of respect. If you don’t tip, it might be considered rude, both by the staff and by locals who observe it. That’s why understanding the tipping culture is essential when visiting the city.
How Much Should You Tip in New York?
Tourists often ask: how much should you tip in New York? Here’s a breakdown by situation to help you navigate every scenario with confidence.
1. Tipping in Restaurants in New York – What’s the Standard Amount?
In sit-down restaurants, the typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the bill. Most diners go with 18% as a safe middle ground. Often, suggested tipping amounts are already printed on the receipt.
If service was excellent, feel free to leave 22% or more. Be sure to check your bill, though—some restaurants automatically include a tip, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
2. Tipping in Fast Food Restaurants in New York – Is It Necessary?
At fast food places like McDonald’s or Shake Shack, tipping is generally not expected. You might see a tip jar at the counter, and if service was friendly or extra helpful, a few dollars are appreciated—but it’s entirely optional.
Some locations may offer tip options on card readers. You can simply skip them without feeling guilty.
3. Tipping at Bars in New York – What’s Considered Polite?
In bars, the norm is to tip $1 to $2 per drink. If you’re ordering cocktails or a complex drink, go with $2. Ordering a full round? Then tipping 20% of the total tab is a good guideline.
Bartenders often remember good tippers, so if you’re planning to stay or return, a decent tip makes a difference.
4. Tipping in New York Coffee Shops – What’s the Custom?
In coffee shops like Starbucks or small local cafés, it’s common to see a tip jar or tipping prompt on the payment screen. While it’s not mandatory, leaving $1 per drink is a kind gesture, especially during busy hours.
Smaller, independent coffee shops may rely even more on tips, particularly when baristas offer personalized service.
5. Tipping in Hotels in New York – Who Should You Tip and How Much?
Tipping in hotels involves several touchpoints. Here’s what’s typical:
1. Bellhop: $2 to $3 per bag
2. Room service: 15% (check if it’s already included)
3. Housekeeping: $2 to $5 per night
For housekeeping, leave cash daily since different staff may clean your room each day.
6. Tipping in Taxis or Ubers in New York – What’s Standard?
For taxi drivers, tipping 15% to 20% is the norm. Uber and Lyft also allow tipping via the app after your ride ends. If you had a smooth ride, the driver helped with luggage, or the trip was long, tip toward the higher end.
7. Tipping Tour Guides in New York – How Much Is Appropriate?
When joining a tour, it’s customary to tip your guide $5 to $10 per person. If your guide was engaging and informative, tipping more is always welcome. For free walking tours, $10 to $20 per person is actually expected.
Is Tipping in New York Mandatory?
Tipping isn’t legally required. However, in reality, it kind of is. In most service settings, people count on tips to supplement their wages. Not tipping is often frowned upon and may be seen as disrespectful.
What Happens If You Don’t Tip in New York?
Failing to tip can lead to awkward situations. You might get a disapproving look, slower service next time, or a verbal reminder. More importantly, it sends a message that you don’t value the service, even when it was good.
So while it’s not enforced, tipping is socially expected.
Do You Need Cash to Tip in New York?
No, but it helps. Most places allow tipping by card, especially restaurants, bars, and taxis. Still, carrying a few small bills is smart.
For hotel housekeeping, bellhops, and street performers, cash is preferred—or often the only option. Make sure you keep a few $1 and $5 bills on hand just in case.
Our Opinion on Tipping in New York
After visiting New York several times, we found tipping to be second nature. It may feel awkward at first, but soon it becomes part of your travel routine. A few extra dollars can truly brighten someone’s day—and often leads to even better service.
Our 5 Tips for Tipping in New York
Based on our personal experience, here are 5 practical tips for tipping in New York:
1. Always check the bill – Some restaurants include a tip automatically.
2. Carry small cash – Especially helpful in hotels and coffee shops.
3. Use 15% as your default – Increase it for great service.
4. Tip something, even for small service – Like a quick coffee or cab ride.
5. Don’t forget housekeeping – They’re often overlooked but work hard.
Edward and Raziye
Authors New York Info
Special offers for a city trip to New York
Are you going on a city trip to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below!
How Much Should You Tip in New York?
Visiting New York is an unforgettable experience. However, many tourists are surprised by the local tipping culture. While tipping may be optional in some countries, in New York it’s almost a social requirement. In this blog, we’ll clearly explain how tipping in New York works—so you know exactly what to expect and what’s expected of you.
Why Is Tipping in New York So Important?
In New York, tipping is not just a bonus—it’s a core part of the service economy. Many workers, especially in hospitality, earn a lower base wage. Tips make up a significant portion of their income.
Moreover, tipping is also seen as a sign of respect. If you don’t tip, it might be considered rude, both by the staff and by locals who observe it. That’s why understanding the tipping culture is essential when visiting the city.
How Much Should You Tip in New York?
Tourists often ask: how much should you tip in New York? Here’s a breakdown by situation to help you navigate every scenario with confidence.
1. Tipping in Restaurants in New York – What’s the Standard Amount?
In sit-down restaurants, the typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the bill. Most diners go with 18% as a safe middle ground. Often, suggested tipping amounts are already printed on the receipt.
If service was excellent, feel free to leave 22% or more. Be sure to check your bill, though—some restaurants automatically include a tip, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
2. Tipping in Fast Food Restaurants in New York – Is It Necessary?
At fast food places like McDonald’s or Shake Shack, tipping is generally not expected. You might see a tip jar at the counter, and if service was friendly or extra helpful, a few dollars are appreciated—but it’s entirely optional.
Some locations may offer tip options on card readers. You can simply skip them without feeling guilty.
3. Tipping at Bars in New York – What’s Considered Polite?
In bars, the norm is to tip $1 to $2 per drink. If you’re ordering cocktails or a complex drink, go with $2. Ordering a full round? Then tipping 20% of the total tab is a good guideline.
Bartenders often remember good tippers, so if you’re planning to stay or return, a decent tip makes a difference.
4. Tipping in New York Coffee Shops – What’s the Custom?
In coffee shops like Starbucks or small local cafés, it’s common to see a tip jar or tipping prompt on the payment screen. While it’s not mandatory, leaving $1 per drink is a kind gesture, especially during busy hours.
Smaller, independent coffee shops may rely even more on tips, particularly when baristas offer personalized service.
5. Tipping in Hotels in New York – Who Should You Tip and How Much?
Tipping in hotels involves several touchpoints. Here’s what’s typical:
1. Bellhop: $2 to $3 per bag
2. Room service: 15% (check if it’s already included)
3. Housekeeping: $2 to $5 per night
For housekeeping, leave cash daily since different staff may clean your room each day.
6. Tipping in Taxis or Ubers in New York – What’s Standard?
For taxi drivers, tipping 15% to 20% is the norm. Uber and Lyft also allow tipping via the app after your ride ends. If you had a smooth ride, the driver helped with luggage, or the trip was long, tip toward the higher end.
7. Tipping Tour Guides in New York – How Much Is Appropriate?
When joining a tour, it’s customary to tip your guide $5 to $10 per person. If your guide was engaging and informative, tipping more is always welcome. For free walking tours, $10 to $20 per person is actually expected.
Is Tipping in New York Mandatory?
Tipping isn’t legally required. However, in reality, it kind of is. In most service settings, people count on tips to supplement their wages. Not tipping is often frowned upon and may be seen as disrespectful.
What Happens If You Don’t Tip in New York?
Failing to tip can lead to awkward situations. You might get a disapproving look, slower service next time, or a verbal reminder. More importantly, it sends a message that you don’t value the service, even when it was good.
So while it’s not enforced, tipping is socially expected.
Do You Need Cash to Tip in New York?
No, but it helps. Most places allow tipping by card, especially restaurants, bars, and taxis. Still, carrying a few small bills is smart.
For hotel housekeeping, bellhops, and street performers, cash is preferred—or often the only option. Make sure you keep a few $1 and $5 bills on hand just in case.
Our Opinion on Tipping in New York
After visiting New York several times, we found tipping to be second nature. It may feel awkward at first, but soon it becomes part of your travel routine. A few extra dollars can truly brighten someone’s day—and often leads to even better service.
Our 5 Tips for Tipping in New York
Based on our personal experience, here are 5 practical tips for tipping in New York:
1. Always check the bill – Some restaurants include a tip automatically.
2. Carry small cash – Especially helpful in hotels and coffee shops.
3. Use 15% as your default – Increase it for great service.
4. Tip something, even for small service – Like a quick coffee or cab ride.
5. Don’t forget housekeeping – They’re often overlooked but work hard.
Edward and Raziye
Authors New York Info
Special offers for a city trip to New York
Are you going on a city trip to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below!
Cheap internet in New York
Want to make cheap calls and use the internet in New York? Read our tips
Cheap New York Yankees Tickets
Looking for cheap New York Yankees tickets? Read our tips
Cheap Broadway Tickets
Are you looking for cheap Broadway tickets? Read our tips
Popular Attractions
New York Pass
Which New York Pass Is the Best?
Read More >>>
You might also find this interesting
Search
Categories