Summary

Tipping in U.S. restaurants has dropped to 19.3%, the lowest in six years, driven by frustration over rising menu prices and increased prompts for tips in non-traditional settings.

Only 38% of consumers tipped 20% or more in 2024, down from 56% in 2021, reflecting tighter budgets.

Diners are cutting back on outings, spending less, and tipping less. Some restaurants are adding service fees, further reducing tips.

Worker advocacy groups are pushing to eliminate the tipped-wage system, while the restaurant industry warns these shifts hurt business and employees.

Key cities like D.C. and Chicago are phasing in higher minimum wages for tipped workers.

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  • some_guy@lemmy.sdf.org
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    5 hours ago

    A gas station that I go to added a tips jar a few years ago. Wtf. You aren’t doing shit but tapping on a sale screen. I really like the people working there. They remember me and we chat. But I’m not tipping you because I bought a Gatorade and you rang it up.

    On the other hand, I dated someone from another country who didn’t live a tipping culture. When she covered a meal and didn’t tip, I’d leave cash because I know it’s expected. I was embarrassed that she didn’t agree with our custom.

    Tipping needs to go. Just pay people a fair wage.