U.S. Consumers Report Growing Frustration Over Tipping Culture, According to Popmenu's Study
U.S. Consumers Report Growing Frustration Over Tipping Culture, According to Popmenu's Study
As tipping continues to be a contentious topic across various industries in the U.S., a new report from Popmenu sheds light on the evolving attitudes of consumers toward gratuities. According to the annual study conducted in September 2025, a staggering 77% of consumers claim that tipping has become overwhelming, with many feeling coerced into leaving tips at establishments where gratuities may not even be customary.
Growing Tipping Fatigue
This year's study, which surveyed 1,000 U.S. consumers, indicates that this phenomenon, referred to as “tipping fatigue”, is becoming increasingly common. A significant 65% of respondents expressed their frustration with the current tipping culture, a noticeable increase from 60% the previous year and 53% in 2023. Consumers report being prompted to tip multiple times throughout the month, averaging around ten requests for gratuity. This incessant demand leads to the startling fact that 43% of consumers are actively tipping less than they have in the past.
The survey also highlights a dichotomy in the motivations behind tipping. Many consumers find themselves tipping out of a sense of obligation rather than genuine gratitude. Specifically, 44% of participants admitted to leaving a tip at places where they felt it was not deserved, and an additional 66% noted they felt compelled to tip when digital payment screens suggest gratuity options, especially in front of service staff. Even more alarming, 64% of respondents reported tipping workers despite receiving unsatisfactory service.
Restaurant Tipping Trends
Interestingly, while frustration mounts, there are signs of improvement in some areas. Approximately 45% of consumers are now tipping restaurant servers 20% or more, a rise from 38% last year. This figure is reflective of a broader trend, as more diners are willing to support restaurant staff. On the contrary, the tipping percentages for delivery drivers remain lower than desired, with only 23% of consumers tipping 20% or more, compared to previous highs of 32% in 2022.
The study also demonstrated that 62% of consumers would rather see higher menu prices than continue the tipping tradition, as they believe this would lead to better wages for restaurant employees. The desire to shift away from tipping practices suggests a significant change in consumer sentiment.
What Services Are Consumers Tipping For?
The survey also revealed consumer tipping habits across various services:
- - 94% tip at restaurants
- - 68% at hair salons or barber shops
- - 46% for taxis or ride-sharing services
- - 45% for grocery delivery
- - 37% for hotel housekeeping or bellhops
- - 25% for spas
- - 22% for dog grooming
- - 10% for auto repair services
These statistics illustrate that while tipping remains ingrained in American culture, the increasing aversion to obligatory gratuity is leading consumers to reconsider their contributions. Brendan Sweeney, CEO and Co-Founder of Popmenu, noted, “Tipflation is taking its toll on consumers who are fed up with feeling pressured to dig deeper into their pockets several times a week, often at places where it may not be customary.”
Conclusion
As the culture of tipping faces scrutiny, it's clear that consumer behaviors are shifting. The combination of declining satisfaction with service levels and an overwhelming sense of obligation is driving many Americans to rethink their tipping habits. The statistics from Popmenu serve as a reminder for businesses that while they may rely on tips for income, there is a growing need to adapt to a changing landscape of consumer expectations.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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