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Delaware Tops U.S. in Generous Tipping at 22.1%

6/16/2025

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Summary

Delaware Tops Tipping

Delaware leads the U.S. in tipping, averaging 22.1%, as reported by Toast.
This is Delaware's second consecutive quarter at the top for tipping generosity.
Full-service restaurants received higher tips (22.6%) than quick-service establishments (18.4%).
Maryland and New Jersey follow with average tips of 19.4% and 18.8%.
The findings are based on data from 140,000 restaurants nationwide.

Summary

Americans Tipping Trends

Americans tipped a total of $77.6 billion in 2023, averaging 15.02% at full-service restaurants.
New Hampshire boasts the highest tipping rate at 16.07%, while Utah has the lowest at 4.09%.
Washington, D.C. leads in per-capita food spending, averaging $10,291.
Mississippi ranks low in both tipping and food spending, averaging $2,927 annually.
This data is derived from a LendingTree survey utilizing USDA Economic Research Service information.

History

Historical Context

The 2009 U.S. recession prompted a cultural shift in consumer spending, with Americans spending $632 billion on food services. This change influenced tipping behaviors, leading to Delaware's average tip of 22.1%, contrasting sharply with Utah's 4.09%. This evolution reflects ongoing economic dynamics and changing consumer attitudes towards service workers in the hospitality industry, highlighting the complexities of tipping culture today.

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Delaware Tops Tipping

Delaware leads the U.S. in tipping, averaging 22.1%, as reported by Toast.
This is Delaware's second consecutive quarter at the top for tipping generosity.
Full-service restaurants received higher tips (22.6%) than quick-service establishments (18.4%).
Maryland and New Jersey follow with average tips of 19.4% and 18.8%.
The findings are based on data from 140,000 restaurants nationwide.

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