Parking Garages NYC | NYC Parking

Every New Yorker has his own view on tipping - when, why, and how much.

Why tip

The average parking attendant earns $19,650*, which is less than half of the average salary in New York City. Additionally, attendants surveyed by Park It! Guides generally indicated that they would be inclined to "go the extra mile" for a consistent and good "tipper".

When to tip

The majority of people tip, using that practiced sleight of hand, when the valet retrieves their car. Some garage companies suggested to us that customers tip when they drop off their cars as a way to ensure that the valet will take particular care when parking their vehicles. Another good reason to tip when dropping off is that valets who work during the day may not benefit from the tips customers give when they pick up their cars. However, most of the larger garages with multiple valets will pool their tips either by shift or for the entire day.

How much to tip

Most people tip $1-2 each time they park. Some monthly parkers give a larger amount during the holiday season.

* Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2007

Tipping In A Parking Garage