BUILDING STAFF:
Our recommended ranges are below and vary based on building size and service level. If you're in a small white glove building, veer towards the high end of these ranges or above vs. if you're in a large building with a sizable staff.
Resident Manager/Super & Handyman:
These are the people who are responsible for making sure your building runs like a well-oiled machine. Whether they come in on occasion to change a lightbulb or unclog the shower drain, they are critical to our everyday lives even if we don't see it. Depending on the structure in your building, these two should each get $100-$300 (if you rent) and anywhere between $200-$1,000 (if you own), with the resident manager/super getting slightly more for his more senior role in the building. If you tip throughout the year or just completed a major renovation, adjust the amount accordingly.
Doormen:
On average, each doorman gets $50-$150 (if you rent) and $175-$500 (if you own), but people tend to give more to their favorites... everyone has that funny doorman that jokes with you or the extra helpful doorman that helps you with your heavy bags. Don’t forget that the overnight and weekend guys are also standing at the door on the ready, so even if you rarely see them, make sure to take care of them as well. Also remember that these numbers should flex based on the same of your building, the size of its staff and the service level!
Maintenance Staff & Porters:
You may not see these people often, but they are very important members of your building staff. They are the ones in the basement keeping your water hot, and in the staff elevator bringing up all of your Amazon packages or picking up your trash. Make sure they know that their hard work is greatly appreciated by tipping them $50-$100 (if you rent) and $150-$350 (if you own).
Garage Attendants:
Depending on how often you use your car, each parking attendant should be tipped $25-$100. Adjust accordingly if you find yourself tipping every time you pick up the car. Garage staff lists tend to be long, so it’s okay to give more to those that you interact with frequently, or those who go above and beyond their duty by helping you load/unload your car every weekend.
HOUSEHOLD STAFF:
Nanny:
Full-time nannies in NYC generally get paid a holiday bonus of one or two week’s salary. This is in addition to any paid holiday days off that they're also receiving at this time of year.
Babysitter:
If you have an occasional babysitter who watches the kids when you go out, it’s appropriate to give them what you would normally pay them for a Friday or Saturday night.
Housekeeper:
A bonus of one week’s pay is the standard NYC holiday tip for a cleaning person who comes at least once a week.
Driver:
For those of you who have a regular driver you either employ directly or have designated on a daily/weekly basis, a driver’s holiday tip should equal one week’s pay.
Dog Walker:
If your pooch is pampered, not peeing on the living room floor, and tired at the end of the day, then you are also a happy camper! Make sure those long walks don't go away and be sure to tip your dog walker a week’s pay this holiday season.
Health & Fitness (Hair Stylist/Trainer/Manicurist):
We rely so heavily on those who make sure we're always looking our best. Whether it is your hair stylist, hair colorist, personal trainer, manicurist, etc., it's important to make sure these VIPs feel appreciated during the holidays so be sure to double their tip when you see them around the holidays. A small gift (ie. candle, a bottle of wine) is always a nice touch too!