Holiday Tipping Guide 2024: How Much to Tip Everyone for Christmas

Sajid Karimee
Jun 1
2 min read

Tipping during the holidays is a thoughtful way to express gratitude to service providers who have supported you throughout the year. While not mandatory, a well-considered tip or gift can go a long way in showing appreciation.

Home & Personal Services

Housekeeper: Equivalent to one week's pay.
Babysitter/Nanny: One evening's pay or up to one week's salary.
Dog Walker/Pet Sitter: One session's pay.
Personal Trainer: Cost of one session.
Massage Therapist: Cost of one session.
Hairstylist/Barber: Cost of one service.
Manicurist/Pedicurist: Cost of one session.

Building & Delivery Staff

Doorman/Concierge: $75 to $200, depending on service frequency and quality.
Superintendent/Resident Manager: $150 to $300.
Porter/Handyman: $25 to $50.
Garage Attendant: $25 to $75.
Newspaper Delivery Person: $10 to $30.
Trash Collectors/Sanitation Workers: $10 to $30 each.
Mail Carrier (USPS): May accept gifts up to $20 in value, but not cash or gift cards.
FedEx Drivers: May accept gifts up to $75 in value, but not cash or gift cards.
UPS Drivers: May accept small gifts or nominal gratuities.

Childcare & Education

Daycare Staff: $25 to $75, depending on hours of care.
Teachers: A thoughtful gift or gift card, typically around $25.
Tutors/Coaches: $25 or a gift card to a favorite store or coffee shop.

Transportation & Delivery

Rideshare Drivers (Uber/Lyft): 15% to 20% of the fare.
Food Delivery Drivers: 18% to 20% of the bill.
Grocery Delivery/Curbside Pickup: $10 to $30.

Holiday-Specific Services

Christmas Tree Carrier: $5 to $10.
Seasonal Workers (e.g., Snow Removal): Equivalent to one service or $20 to $50 for frequent services.

Tipping Etiquette Tips

Personalize Your Gratitude: Include a handwritten note expressing your appreciation.
Budget Accordingly: Set a tipping budget that reflects your financial situation.
Consistency Matters: If you have multiple staff members (e.g., doormen), aim to tip them equally to maintain harmony.
Alternative Gifts: If tipping isn't feasible, consider homemade treats or thoughtful gifts as tokens of appreciation.