Money and costs in Miami
Miami runs more expensive than much of Florida, especially in South Beach and Brickell. Sales tax is 7 percent in Miami-Dade, resort fees are common, and — the local catch — many restaurants add an automatic service charge, so check the bill before you tip again.
Taxes and added fees
Florida's state sales tax is 6 percent, and Miami-Dade County adds a 1 percent surtax, so most purchases are taxed at 7 percent. Hotels add bed and tourist taxes on top, and many — particularly on Miami Beach — also charge a daily resort fee that is not in the headline room rate.
Ask what the resort fee covers and confirm the all-in nightly total when you book, because it can add a meaningful amount to a beachfront stay.
The automatic-gratuity catch
Many Miami and Miami Beach restaurants add an automatic service charge of around 18 to 20 percent to the bill, especially in tourist areas. That charge is the server's gratuity, so always read the itemized bill before adding more.
Some bills then leave an extra tip line on top of the included service charge; you are not obligated to fill it in once service is already added. When in doubt, ask the server whether gratuity is included.
Paying and everyday tipping
Cards and contactless payments are accepted nearly everywhere; carry a little cash for valet, housekeeping, and small tips. Outside restaurants that already add service, standard US tipping applies — about 18 to 20 percent at sit-down meals, a dollar or two per drink, and a few dollars for drivers and hotel staff.
Beach clubs, valet parking, and South Beach nightlife can carry steep minimums and fees, so confirm prices up front in those settings.
Reviewed source trail
- Florida Department of Revenue — sales and use tax — checked 2026-06-18
- Florida Department of Revenue — discretionary sales surtax (Miami-Dade) — checked 2026-06-18
- Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau — checked 2026-06-18