CHICAGO — When it comes to Midwest hospitality toward tipped workers, a new study shows Illinoisans aren’t footing the bill.
According to a USA TODAY study, Illinois residents are the worst tippers in America. Examining tips nationwide over two weeks, Illinoisans tipped an average of 14.22%. For example, the report showed that Illinois tippers would pay about $85.66 for a $75 bill (before tax) based on the state’s tipping average.
The national average for tippers in the US is 17.94%
| State (Worst tippers in the US) | Percentage |
| Illinois | 14.22% |
| Mississippi | 14.98% |
| South Carolina | 15.13% |
| New Mexico | 15.32% |
| Tennessee | 15.40% |
The study, conducted from Sept. 11-25, found that California residents tipped the most, averaging 22.69%
Millennials were found to be the best tippers in the country, averaging 18.18%. In contrast, the Silent Generation (adults born between 1928 and 1945) tends to be the worst.
The study found that tips varied by income.
A silver lining?
The Chicago City Council passed an ordinance on Friday, Oct. 6, to raise the pay for tipped workers who make less than minimum wage.
View the full report here.