The Heartland tips better than most of the country

Kansas and Missouri diners tip almost 20% on average, which is better than most of the country, according to new Toast data.

Why it matters: Tipping is under the microscope nationally, with diners saying they're sick of being asked and some restaurants dropping it entirely.

Zoom in: A server is guaranteed at least $15 an hour with tips in Missouri, but in Kansas the floor is $7.25.

By the numbers: Kansas diners leave 19.6% on average and Missourians 19.5%. The national average is 18.7%.

At sit-down restaurants, Kansans tip 20.2% and Missourians 19.8%.

Yes, but: Kansas ranks in the bottom five states for tipping at fast food and quick-service spots, with an average of 15.6%.

Of the 37 states above the national average overall, only five tip less than Kansas at the counter.

Flashback: Both states tipped better three years ago. Missouri averaged 20.1% in late 2022 and Kansas 19.9%, per Toast data at the time.

Both have slipped about half a point since, about the same as the country as a whole.

Between the lines: A survey this spring found 35% of Americans have cut back on restaurant tipping, blaming tip prompts showing up everywhere and having less money after inflation.

The fine print: The data comes from restaurants that use Toast's payment system, about 180,000 locations nationwide, and only counts card and digital tips.

Cash isn't included, and the second quarter ended June 30, two weeks into the World Cup.

💭 Abbey's thought bubble: I tip 20% every time, more if the service was great. It's a mix of principle and reflex at this point.

What's the right amount to tip? Hit reply and tell us where you land.