Are You Overtipping? Fair Amounts in 2025
If you’ve ever tapped “20%” on a tablet without thinking, only to wonder later if you just fell into the trap of overtipping, you’re not alone.
Between tip screens at coffee shops, ride shares, and restaurants, Americans are feeling what many call tipping fatigue. Surveys show that most of us complain about our tipping culture, but still hand over extra dollars out of habit or guilt.
So, the big question is, what’s a fair tip now, and how does it vary across the country?
Tipping Fatigue? What’s Fair in 2025
So, what counts as a fair tip today? For sit-down restaurants, 15 to 20% is still the standard, with 20% reserved for good service and even higher amounts reserved for truly exceptional experiences.
At coffee shops, a dollar or two per drink is considered fair. For rideshares, most people leave 10 to 15%, while food delivery drivers generally expect closer to 15 to 20%, given gas and labor costs.
The key is that fair tip amounts should reflect both service quality and context, rather than blindly following a high default on a tablet.
The Rise of Tip Screens
It used to be we’d toss a few coins into a tip jar at the coffee shop. Now, checkout screens politely suggest 25%, 30%, even 35% before we’ve taken our first sip. These digital prompts are designed to increase tipping, and they work.
But, many people say the constant requests make tipping feel less like a choice and more like a built-in surcharge.
In fact, surveys show that over 40% of customers believe employers should raise wages instead of leaning so heavily on tips, and more than a third admit they’re irritated by preset amounts that seem to keep climbing.
Where Tipping Is Highest
According to LendingTree’s recent analysis, Delaware leads the nation when it comes to tipping, with an overall average of 22.1% across both full-service and quick-service restaurants.
Diners in Delaware leave an impressive 22.6% at sit-down spots and 18.4% at counter-service places, putting them at or near the top in both categories.
Close behind are West Virginia, New Hampshire, and Indiana, all hovering around the 21% mark, which shows that tipping habits can run especially strong in smaller or less-expected states.
Where Tipping Is Lowest
On the other end of the spectrum, California lands at the bottom, averaging just 17.3% overall. Surprising, right? At full-service restaurants, the state’s tips dip to 17.8%, and quick-service tips are even lower at 14.8%.
Washington, Florida, and Nevada also rank among the least generous, each falling under 18.5% on average.
These numbers highlight that, while most states cluster in the 19% to 22% range, a few places consistently tip less, reflecting both local dining habits and broader attitudes toward tipping culture.
Generational Shifts
Another thing to consider is that tipping habits also change with age. Baby boomers and Gen Xers are the most consistent tippers across restaurants, salons, and rideshares.
Younger generations, however, are less likely to always tip, especially for haircuts and taxis.
Some Gen Zers and millennials argue that tipping expectations have spiraled out of control, while others say they prefer higher menu prices if it means fewer awkward prompts. It’s a sign that the debate over tipping culture is not going away anytime soon.
Finding the Balance Without Guilt
If tipping has started to feel like a minefield, you’re not alone. The truth is, no one benefits when customers feel pressured or resentful.
A fair tip is one that shows appreciation without leaving us feeling drained. It’s important for consumers to know the basic ranges, tip more when service shines, and not feel obligated to go overboard every time a screen pops up.
While overtipping may give a short-term sense of generosity, it’s not the solution when we’re all feeling budgetary constraints. What really matters is finding the balance and showing kindness to people who work hard, while also keeping tipping in its fair place.
Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.