Remember To Tip

When visiting Los Angeles, it’s important to remember to tip, as tipping is a significant part of the service culture in the city. Like many other parts of the United States, tipping is not just a gesture of appreciation but a key component of the income for many service workers in LA. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, taking a rideshare, or receiving help with your luggage, tips are expected and can make a real difference for those providing you with service. While tipping standards can vary depending on the situation, understanding how much to tip in different contexts will help ensure you’re showing proper appreciation for excellent service.

In restaurants, tipping is especially important, as many servers rely on tips as a large portion of their income. The standard tipping rate in Los Angeles is typically 15-20% of the total bill before tax, though some restaurants may include a service charge, particularly for larger groups. If you're unsure, it's always safe to follow the 20% rule for good service, and if the service was exceptional, you can opt to leave even more. Keep in mind that tipping is customary even for smaller food-service experiences, like coffee shops or casual eateries. Many places will have a tip jar, and it’s always nice to leave a dollar or two for good service. For delivery orders, a tip of $3-$5 is generally appreciated, though larger orders may warrant a bigger tip.

For rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, tipping is also a standard practice in Los Angeles, especially since drivers rely on tips in addition to their fare. Most rideshare apps give you the option to tip digitally after your ride is complete, and the general guideline is to tip around 10-20% of the fare, depending on the quality of service. If your driver went above and beyond—such as offering a bottled water, providing great conversation, or helping with luggage—a larger tip is always appreciated. For shorter trips, a minimum tip of $2-$3 is common, but for longer or more expensive rides, consider tipping more to reflect the service you received. Since tipping is done digitally, it’s convenient and easy to reward drivers without having to carry cash.

Tipping is also customary for other services that are common in Los Angeles. For example, hotel staff members such as bellhops and housekeepers typically expect tips for their assistance. A bellhop should receive $1-$2 per bag, while housekeeping should be tipped $1-$5 per day, depending on the level of service and the size of the hotel. If you use valet parking, it’s customary to tip $1-$2 each time your car is brought to you. Similarly, if you have a tour guide or driver for a private tour, the standard tip is around 10-15% of the tour price. While tipping in LA may seem like an additional expense, it’s an essential part of the local economy, and by remembering to tip generously, you’ll not only help those who are working hard to ensure you have a great experience but also be appreciated by the locals who make the city run smoothly.