Is $50 a good tip for doorman?

Is $50 a Good Tip for Your Doorman? Navigating the Holiday Tipping Season

The holidays are a time for generosity, and for many, that includes showing appreciation for the building staff who make our lives easier throughout the year. But with varying roles and responsibilities, figuring out how much to tip can feel like a complex equation. So, is $50 a good tip for your doorman? The answer, like most things related to tipping, isn’t a simple yes or no.

While $50 isn’t an insignificant amount, it falls somewhere in the middle of the typical tipping range for building staff. Gratuity expectations vary significantly based on factors like the building’s location, its level of luxury, and the individual employee’s performance and tenure. Let’s break down the typical holiday tipping landscape:

• Resident Managers: These individuals oversee the day-to-day operations of the building and often handle significant responsibilities. Therefore, they typically receive the highest tips, ranging from $150 to $300, and sometimes even more in luxury buildings.

• Doormen and Concierges: These staff members are the face of the building, providing a range of services from handling packages and hailing cabs to offering helpful recommendations and ensuring security. A typical holiday tip for doormen and concierges ranges from $75 to $200. While $50 might be acceptable in smaller buildings or for newer staff, it might be considered on the lower end in larger, luxury buildings where doormen provide extensive services.

• Porters, Handymen, and Maintenance Staff: These individuals keep the building running smoothly behind the scenes. Their services are essential, and a tip between $25 and $50 is generally considered appropriate.

So, where does that leave the $50 tip for your doorman? Consider these factors:

• Your Building: Do you live in a luxury high-rise or a smaller, more modest building? Luxury buildings generally have higher tipping expectations.

• Individual Service: Has your doorman consistently gone above and beyond? Exceptional service deserves extra recognition.

• Your Budget: While it’s important to be generous, tipping should align with your personal financial situation.

• Length of Residency: If you’ve just moved in, a slightly lower tip might be acceptable. Longer-term residents often tip more generously.

Ultimately, the best tip is one that reflects your appreciation and considers the specific context of your building and your relationship with the staff. While $50 might be a perfectly acceptable tip in some situations, consider increasing the amount if you live in a luxury building or if your doorman has provided exceptional service throughout the year. A thoughtful card accompanying the tip adds a personal touch and further expresses your gratitude.