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Holiday Tipping in Manhattan

Real Estate Celeste Pandhi December 4, 2025

Holiday tipping in New York City isn’t optional if you live in a staffed building — it’s cultural, it’s practical, and it shows appreciation for the service you get year-round. Many of our building employees go above and beyond – Mine certainly do!

But how much is “right”? The answer depends on two things most people ignore:

• Do you rent or own?

• What size apartment you live in?

Here’s a clear guide for Manhattan residents who want to tip correctly without going broke.

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RENTING VS OWNING — THE BIG DIFFERENCE

If you RENT You can comfortably tip in the lower-to-middle range. You’re transient, not building long-term leverage.

If you OWN You should tip in the middle-to-upper range. You’re investing in goodwill that will pay off for years: responsiveness, flexibility, priority.

Owners are expected to give more — not because of ego, but because ownership signals permanence.

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BY APARTMENT SIZE (FULL-SERVICE MANHATTAN BUILDING)

STUDIO

Rent: $700–$1,100 total

Own: $1,100–$1,500 total

Potential approach:

• Super: $125–$250

• Primary staff: $75–$100

• Others: $30–$50

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