It’s no secret that tipping culture has exploded in the U.S. following Covid-era closures. What was once a practice relegated to servers, bartenders, hairdressers, and other service industry professionals has expanded to convenience stores, self-checkouts, and even the doctor’s office. While these costs were once intended to help businesses alleviate financial strain from the months they spent closed, they have lingered for almost five years now. And if you’re feeling exhausted, you’re not alone.
According to a poll conducted by financial news media website Tradingpedia, a whopping 71 percent of Americans believe that tipping is expected too frequently and in too many locations. The survey, which was conducted between Feb. 24 and Feb. 28, 2025, included 2,005 individuals, with 13 percent reporting they feel as if tipping expectations have increased in industries outside of service.
