Not sure how much to tip? You're not alone. This guide covers standard tipping amounts for every service β from haircuts to hotel housekeeping.
β‘ Quick Reference Chart
Restaurant15-20%
Haircut15-20%
Massage15-20%
Pedicure15-20%
Tattoo15-25%
Hotel Maid$2-5/night
Valet$2-5
Takeout0-10%
Delivery15-20%
Uber/Lyft15-20%
Movers$20-50/person
Dog Groomer15-20%
Top 15 Tipping Questions
1 How much to tip for a haircut?
15-20% of the service cost. For a $30 haircut, tip $4.50-$6. For exceptional service or if they styled you perfectly for an event, bump it to 25%. Cash is preferred so it goes directly to your stylist.
15-20% at spas and salons. For a $100 massage, that's $15-$20. At medical/chiropractic offices, tipping isn't always expected β ask the front desk if unsure.
Optional but appreciated. 10% is generous for simple orders. Consider 15-20% for large/complex orders or if staff helped you to your car. During the pandemic, tipping for takeout became more common.
$2-5 per night. Leave it daily (not at checkout) since different housekeepers may clean your room. Leave the cash on the pillow or with a note marked "Housekeeping" so they know it's for them.
15-25% of the total cost. Tattoos are art and labor-intensive. For a $500 tattoo, tip $75-$125. For multi-session pieces, tip at the end of each session.
15-20% or at least $3-5. For orders under $20, tip at least $3. Bad weather, late nights, or apartment complexes warrant extra. Remember β they're using their own gas and car.
$2-5 when your car is returned. Tip at retrieval, not drop-off. For luxury vehicles or if they took extra care, $5-10 is appropriate. At high-end establishments, $5 is the minimum.
15-20% of the fare. Minimum $2-3 for short trips. You can tip in the app after rating your driver. For exceptional service, help with luggage, or long drives, tip generously.
$20-50 per mover for a full day. For a half-day, $10-25 per person. Provide water/snacks during the move. If they handled difficult items (piano, stairs), tip on the higher end.
15-20% or at least $5. For large orders, heavy items, or apartments with stairs, tip more. Bad weather? Be generous β they're out there so you don't have to be.
Tipping is not expected for medical procedures like Botox, even at med spas. However, if you have the same injector regularly and want to show appreciation, a holiday gift is appropriate.
15-20% for good service. 18% is the new standard in many areas. For exceptional service, 25%. Calculate tip on the pre-tax total. Poor service? 10-15% with feedback to management.