Tipping Point: The Surprising Places Where Americans Are Least (and Most) Likely to Tip

Tipping Point: The Surprising Places Where Americans Are Least (and Most) Likely to Tip

Americans are Already Dealing with Elevated Prices, So Why the Pressure to Tip?

Americans are already coping with elevated prices thanks to inflation. So often it feels particularly egregious when they’re asked to tip on top of that — sometimes 20% or more — at seemingly random places like the grocery store or fast-food counter.

New Survey Reveals Where Americans are Least Likely to Leave Tips

The increased pressure to tip in evermore scenarios is leading some folks to draw the line. A new survey from Upgraded Points, a credit card rewards site, shines light on where, exactly, most Americans are comfortable skipping the tip.

Where People Hate Tipping the Most

The survey suggests that Americans tend to skip tipping at businesses that prioritize fast-paced service and minimal interaction with the workers. That means people are least likely to tip at…

  • At the car repair shop: 82% of respondents said they don’t tip on auto services.
  • At sporting events: 76% said they don’t leave tips at sporting-event concession stands.
  • At fast-casual restaurants: A small majority, 53%, do not tip at so-called “fast casual” restaurants, like Chipotle or Panera Bread.
  • On food pickup orders: When picking up their meal from a restaurant, 51% said they don’t tip.

Why Do Americans Tip So Much?

Tipping is ingrained in America’s economic DNA, and it became the norm after the U.S. Civil War when formerly enslaved Black people were integrated into the workforce. In many cases, employers paid them little-to-no wages, and Black workers largely relied on tips to make a living.
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