A NYC Guide to Holiday Tipping for Building Staff
The holiday season in New York City comes with its own traditions—lights on Fifth Avenue, skating in Central Park, and of course, the annual custom of tipping building staff. For many residents, the practice can feel unclear or even stressful: How much is appropriate? Who should be included? What’s the norm for my type of building?
Here’s a clear, modern guide to navigating holiday tipping, so you can show appreciation to the people who help keep your building running smoothly all year long.
Why Holiday Tipping Matters in NYC
In a city where our homes are often vertical communities, building staff play a real role in our daily lives—handling packages, managing security, maintaining the building, and often going above and beyond to make life a little easier. Holiday tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a meaningful way to recognize that work and maintain a positive rapport with the team.
Suggested Holiday Tipping Ranges
These ranges reflect common NYC norms. Ultimately, your tip can vary based on how much you interact with staff, the size of your building, and the level of service you receive.
Doormen / Concierge
$50–$400
Higher-end buildings typically see tips at the top of this range.
Superintendents
$75–$500
Supers usually receive among the highest tips, especially if they handle repairs or emergencies throughout the year.
Porters / Handymen
$20–$100
A thoughtful range for staff who keep the building clean and running day-to-day.
Maintenance / Engineering Staff
$30–$150
Depending on the building and how frequently you interact with them.
Factors to Help Decide Your Amount
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Your building type: Luxury full-service buildings trend higher; small walk-ups tend to be lower.
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Your level of service: Staff who assist you frequently or personally may warrant a higher tip.
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Tenure: Long-standing staff often receive higher recognition.
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Household size: Larger families who generate more deliveries and traffic sometimes give more.
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Recent events: If staff supported you during a renovation, move, or emergency, you might adjust upward.
How to Give Tips
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Cash is the long-standing standard.
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Checks are accepted in many buildings—confirm preferences.
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Group contributions: Some buildings offer a pooled holiday fund; you can still tip individuals directly if you’d like.
When to Give
Most residents tip between mid-December and New Year’s, though early December is becoming more common with holiday travel and package surges.
Final Thought
Holiday tipping isn’t about matching your neighbors—it’s about showing appreciation in a way that feels meaningful and appropriate for your household. A sincere “thank you” paired with a thoughtful gesture goes a long way toward strengthening the sense of community that makes NYC living so special.
