Tipping Fatigue: Are Texans Tipping Too Much When Dining Out?

I am a firm believer that you should tip whenever dining out. I know, I know, not everyone is in a position to add gratuity, but I feel that any little bit helps.

Get our free mobile app

It seems I'm not alone in this thinking as the average restaurant tip in Texas is 18.9%: within the top ten lowest in the U.S.

Some states with the highest average tip include Delaware (21.8%), Wyoming (20.8%), and Kentucky (20.7%).

Obviously, there are a lot of factors at play when you talk about different states with their own separate economies, but in terms of tipping percentages only, this is where Texas stands. But there is a downside to having so many locations expect tips wherever you go.

Tipping fatigue

This is, unfortunately, happening more and more across America where adding a tip is no longer considered optional. According to PlayUSA's 2023 Tipping Survey, nearly 2 out of 3 Americans are overwhelmed by requests for tips when dining out.

Also, over half of Americans feel pressured into tipping when presented with an iPad or tablet during checkouts, with 71% noticing higher tip options than normal in years past.

I will admit, it does get awkward at Starbucks when the drive thru employee purposely avoids eye contact with me as they face their tablet my direction with tip options before handing me my coffee.

Texas restaurant laws

It's important to keep in mind that some positions in Texas are designed to accommodate tips. 7shifts.com has good details on service charges and tipping credits in The Lone Star State, as well as how tip shares work with eligible employees only.

So, the next time you are at a restaurant, please do not feel pressured into tipping: it is still ultimately your decision as the patron. If you feel the service was up to standards for additional pay, then leave whatever tip you feel is appropriate. Just please don't passive aggressively tip $0.01...