8 Things Americans Used to Tip For—But No Longer Do

Tipping in the U.S. has shifted a lot in recent years. People are reevaluating who really deserves extra cash, and where it feels like businesses are pushing too far. While tipping is still strong in some industries, here are eight situations where many Americans have started cutting back.

Counter Service Coffee Shops

It used to be common to toss a dollar in the jar for baristas. But with digital screens asking for 20–30% on a drip coffee, many customers are pushing back. Rising prices already make coffee expensive, and tips feel like an extra burden.

Some still tip for custom drinks or great service, but not every cup gets extra cash anymore. This broader frustration has been labeled “tip fatigue” by CNBC, as people get tired of constant prompts.

Fast-Food Counters

Tipping at a burger or pizza counter was once normal when jars sat by the register. Now, many customers decline, seeing it as part of the job rather than optional generosity. With menu prices climbing, fewer people feel obligated to add more. Some still drop in spare change, but regular tipping has dropped sharply. Digital checkouts make it easy to skip.

Grocery Baggers

Decades ago, bagging groceries was a tipped role in some regions. Today, it’s nearly vanished as bagging is considered standard service. Many chains even discourage or forbid tips to workers. With most customers bagging their own items, this small tradition has faded. Younger shoppers are often surprised it ever existed.

Gas Station Attendants

In states where attendants pumped gas, it was polite to leave a tip. But with self-service dominating, the custom all but disappeared. Even in New Jersey and Oregon, where full-service still exists, most customers don’t tip. Rising fuel prices have also made people less generous at the pump. What was once routine is now a rarity.

Delivery Drivers for Small Items

Tipping on large pizza orders or groceries is still common, but smaller deliveries like a single sandwich don’t get the same treatment. With delivery fees and service charges piling up, many customers assume drivers are already covered.

Apps don’t always make it clear where the money goes, adding to the reluctance. Drivers report inconsistent tips depending on order size and distance. It’s another casualty of tipping fatigue.

Hotel Housekeepers

Hotel guests once left cash daily for housekeeping, but the habit has faded. Some people skip tips entirely, while others only leave a small amount at checkout. The pandemic accelerated the trend as many hotels cut daily cleanings. Without daily interaction, tipping feels less automatic.

Hair Washing Assistants

At salons, customers often tipped the person washing their hair separately from the stylist. But that practice is less common now, with most tips bundled at the end. Some salons even pool tips for fairness, removing the expectation. While appreciation is still shown for great service, the culture of separate tipping has waned. It’s one less step in the process for customers.

Valet Parking at Everyday Spots

Tipping valets at hotels or fancy restaurants is still expected, but casual venues have seen a drop-off. At malls, hospitals, or smaller events, customers are less likely to tip for a simple handoff. Rising valet fees already add to the cost, so many drivers hand over their keys without extra cash. The practice is narrowing to higher-end experiences only. Where it was once standard, now it’s situational.

What to Try Instead

Instead of tipping everywhere, many Americans are focusing on tipping generously where it matters most—like restaurants, bars, and personal care services. If you want to save money but still show appreciation, leave positive online reviews, mention employees by name to managers, or recommend businesses to friends.

These gestures cost nothing but still reward good service. Being intentional with tips makes them more meaningful without draining your wallet.

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