New York State residents are spending more than $237 million each year in tips for coffee shop workers, according to a recent study. The report from GigaCalculator suggests that individual New Yorkers tip an average of $357 annually for their coffee purchases.
The study highlights that the average American consumes three takeout coffees weekly, with the average price in New York City being $6.20. With a customary 20% tip expectation, New Yorkers are adding an estimated $357 per person to their coffee expenses each year.
Researchers estimated that approximately 533,000 New York City residents purchase takeout coffee daily. This daily habit contributes to the substantial statewide annual gratuity total for coffee shop employees. The study cited data from a 2026 Drive Research analysis, which found that 71% of Americans drink coffee daily, and 33% purchase from cafés weekly.
The increasing pressure to tip has become a point of contention for consumers. A separate survey indicated that 78% of customers find tipping practices have become excessive, and about 74% believe that suggested gratuity amounts on digital payment screens are often inflated.
Psychologists suggest that the pressure to tip is often driven by social obligation and a desire to avoid discomfort rather than solely by appreciation for service. Dennis Relojo-Howell, managing director for Psychreg, noted that the act of selecting 'no tip' on a screen, especially in front of staff, can create an awkward social situation, leading many to tip something to avoid perceived judgment.