Do you tip more or less often that the average American?

Tipping, although seemingly small, plays a significant role in our daily financial decisions. Understanding when and how much to tip in different settings is more than just a social norm; it's a practical aspect of budgeting and financial planning. This is especially relevant for high school students who are beginning to navigate the world of money management and consumer responsibility. This interactive website from Pew Research Center allows you to choose a sector, answer how often you tip when receiving a service in that sector, then compare your results to the average. 

PLEASE NOTE: The "Cork 'n' Stopper" location in this interactive asks the user if they tip when they get a drink at a bar. Use your discretion about whether you'll want to instruct students to skip this location, or if you'll want to reconsider using the resource at all.

Questions:

• How did your tipping habits compare to the average in each industry? Were you surprised by any of the comparisons?
• Why do you think tipping is more common in some industries than others?
• Discuss the societal expectations around tipping. Do you think they are fair or should be changed?
• Do you believe that the responsibility for fair wages should be on the customer through tipping or on the employer? Explain your reasoning.
• Discuss the potential impact of a 'no-tipping' policy in restaurants and service industries. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks?

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Want your students to practice being savvy spenders? Check out NGPF's Consumer Skills unit.

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Looking for more interactive resources? Be sure to check out the NGPF Interactive Library. 

About the Author

Ryan Wood

Ryan is the Partnerships and Adoption Manager for Next Gen Personal Finance’s midwest region. He brings his experience as a former teacher, curriculum designer, and sales and marketing professional to state organizations and school districts in supporting the implementation of their personal financial education efforts. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and earned his teaching credential from Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. He proudly taught at two rural high schools in Wisconsin before transitioning to curriculum design at NGPF, and is now excited to be on the front lines in delivering the best possible financial education in the midwest. He and his wife have three beautiful daughters, each of which inspire him to share the impact of being sound financial stewards both at home and as lifelong learners.