NYC Holiday Tipping Guide: How Much to Give Your Building Staff
If you’re living in New York, holiday tipping isn’t optional homework—it’s part of the city playbook. Building staff and service workers keep your life running, and the end of the year is when residents show appreciation. Whether you rent or own, here’s the no-BS guide to what’s expected.
Fast Facts
- Not required, but expected. Skip it and don’t be shocked if the doorman isn’t rushing to grab your next package.
- Cash rules. Venmo and Zelle are fine, but envelopes still carry weight.
- Staff compare notes. Don’t be the outlier.
- Building size matters. Fewer staff = bigger tips per person.
- Early is better. Mid-December is the sweet spot.
Standard Tip Ranges
| Role | Typical Range | Broader Range |
|---|---|---|
| Super / Resident Manager | $150 – $300 | $100 – $500 |
| Doorman / Concierge | $75 – $200 | $50 – $1,000 |
| Porter / Handyman / Maintenance | $25 – $50 | $20 – $100 |
| Garage Attendant | $25 – $75 | $20 – $100 |
Owners vs Renters
- Owners: Usually tip higher. You’ve got equity in the building and long-term relationships with staff.
- Renters: Still tip—especially if you’ve been around a while—but it’s normal to land mid-range or lower if you’re newer or short-term.
- Long-term renters: You’re basically family at this point. Your tips should look closer to owner levels.
What New Yorkers Actually Give
Based on recent citywide data:
- Owners in doorman buildings: Most give $250 to $1,500 total—with some going way past $2,500.
- Owners in non-doorman buildings: Lighter, usually $250 to $750 total.
- Renters in doorman buildings: About half give $250 to $1,000.
- Renters in non-doorman buildings: The most modest—80% give under $250 total.
It’s not gospel, but it’s a good gut check against what your neighbors are likely doing.
How to Adjust Your Tip
- Lots of deliveries and favors? → Go higher.
- Barely see staff? → Stay on the lower side.
- New to the building? → Start modest and increase next year.
- Finances tight? → Something small with a thank-you note beats nothing.
Service Workers Outside the Building
Building staff aren’t the only people who keep your life running smoothly. From nannies to dog walkers, there are plenty of others who deserve a holiday thank-you.
| Service | Recommended Tip |
|---|---|
| Cleaning person / Housekeeper | 1–2 weeks’ pay |
| Regular cleaning crew | 1 week’s pay |
| Full-time nanny | 1–2 weeks’ pay |
| Occasional babysitter | $25 – $50 cash or gift card |
| Dog walker | 1 week’s pay |
| UPS / FedEx delivery person | $25 – $50 |
| Mail carrier | Up to $20 (legal limit) |
Skip contractors, plumbers, electricians, property managers, and brokers (you don’t need to tip your broker. We’re good. 😉).
Delivery & Presentation
- Cash in an envelope is still the gold standard.
- Checks are fine if passing through the super.
- Digital transfers work—just keep them private.
- Short notes make a big difference.
Final thoughts
Holiday tipping is ultimately a personal decision. Use these guidelines as a starting point, adjust for your situation, and give what feels right for you. A well-considered tip—along with genuine gratitude—can mean a lot to someone who works behind the scenes all year long.
FAQs
NYC Holiday Tipping FAQs
How do I figure out a total holiday tipping budget for my building?
Set a total you’re comfortable with, then divide it across staff based on building size, service level, and how often you rely on them.
- Doorman/concierge buildings: Many residents allocate a total from a few hundred up to four figures, scaled by staff count and service level.
- Non-doorman buildings: Totals are typically lower and focused on the super/resident manager and porter/maintenance.
- Usage-based adjustments: Heavy packages, frequent favors, move-in/out help → nudge amounts up for those people.
Illustrative split: $600 total with 1 super, 3 doormen, 2 porters → Super $200; each doorman $90; each porter $65.
How should owners vs. renters adjust their tips?
- Owners: Often tip toward the higher end (long-term relationships, vested interest).
- Renters: Mid-range is common if newer/short-term; long-term renters who rely on staff often match owner-level giving.
- Context matters: A long-time renter who interacts daily may out-tip a first-year owner who rarely needs help.
What if my building has a tipping pool—do I still give individual envelopes?
Yes—combine both:
- Contribute to the pool for fairness across shifts and behind-the-scenes roles.
- Add personal envelopes for your MVPs.
- If passing tips via the super/manager, checks can be safer than cash.
Is digital tipping (Venmo/Zelle) okay? What should I write in the note?
- Digital tips are fine if staff are comfortable—ask discreetly.
- Keep notes private and simple: “Thanks for all your help this year.”
- Cash in an envelope is still universally appreciated.
What if I just moved in, barely see staff, or money is tight this year?
- New to the building: Start modestly; adjust next year.
- Low interaction: Use the lower end of ranges, but don’t skip entirely.
- Budget constraints: A smaller tip with a sincere note beats nothing.
