← Tipping by US City
Tipping in New York / New Jersey
New York
Tip 18–20% at restaurants, $2–3 per drink at bars, 15–20% for taxis, and $3–5 per night for hotel housekeeping.
What to tip in New York / New Jersey
| Service | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurants | 18–20% | Calculated on the pre-tax subtotal. For groups of 6+, an 18–20% gratuity is often added automatically. |
| Bars & pubs | $2–3 per drink | For cocktails, $2–3 each. For a simple beer, $1–2. If running a tab, 18–20% on the total. |
| Taxis & rideshare | 15–20% | NYC yellow cabs have a tip screen that suggests 20%, 25%, or 30%. 20% is normal. |
| Hotel housekeeping | $3–5/night | Leave cash on the pillow or nightstand each morning with a note saying “Thank you.” |
| Hotel bellhop / doorman | $2–5/bag | Tip when bags are delivered to your room. |
| Food trucks & fast food | Not required | Some have a tip jar or screen prompt. $1 or skipping is both acceptable. |
| Stadium food & drinks | Not required | Concession stands at MetLife do not expect tips. Some have tip jars — a dollar is generous. |
What's different here
- •Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and tip screens on card readers are standard. You can tip on card — no need to carry cash (though housekeeping tips should be cash).
- •Tax in NYC is 8.875%. A quick trick: double the tax amount for a roughly 18% tip.
- •At delis and coffee shops, a $1–2 tip in the jar is appreciated but not required.
- •Street performers expect tips if you stop to watch. $1–2 is fine.
- •Hotel concierges: tip $5–20 for restaurant reservations or hard-to-get tickets.