California and Washington among lowest-tipping US regions

Data from Toast, reported by Axios, indicates that California, Washington state, and Washington, D.C., ranked among the lowest jurisdictions for restaurant tipping during the second quarter of 2026. In these areas, diners averaged less than 18% in tips.

In contrast, Delaware, West Virginia, and New Hampshire topped the rankings, with average tips reaching approximately 21%. Nationally, the average tip across all restaurant types remained steady at roughly 19% for the second quarter of 2026.

While the data does not establish a definitive cause for these geographic differences, the low-tipping regions are also characterized by relatively high minimum wages. The report notes that while tipping habits have remained largely stable, a 2025 Bankrate survey found that 41% of Americans believe tipping culture has become ‘out of control.’

Note that Toast’s figures are based on transactions processed through its platform and do not account for cash tips.