Average Funeral Costs by Type: Burial, Cremation & Services Breakdown

Trying to figure out the cost of a funeral is a conversation no one wants to have. It feels incredibly uncomfortable to think about money and budgeting when you’re dealing with grief. But here’s the thing: understanding what to expect financially is one of the most important things you can do to find a little peace of mind. It allows you to make decisions from a place of clarity, not stress.

I want to break down the expenses for you, simply and clearly, so you’re not walking into a funeral home feeling unprepared. Knowing the basic funeral costs breakdown is a crucial part of any funeral planning guide.

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What’s the Average Cost of a Funeral?

The numbers can be a little jarring at first, so just take a deep breath. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial was around **$8,300**. If you chose cremation with a viewing and service, the median cost was closer to **$7,000**. These are national medians, so you can expect prices to be a bit higher in a place like New York City, or lower in a smaller town. And remember, these numbers don’t include all the “third-party” stuff—things like the cemetery plot, headstone, flowers, or an obituary—which can add thousands more to the final bill.

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Burial vs. Cremation: A Simple Financial Comparison

The choice between burial and cremation is the single biggest factor that determines the final cost. While a cremation with a full service can be expensive, a traditional burial almost always has more components and a higher overall price tag.

The reason average burial costs are higher is because they include several key items that cremation does not. You’ll have a full funeral home service fee, the cost of embalming and preparing the body, and the significant cost of the casket and a burial vault. When you add in the separate cemetery plot costs, the total can easily climb well above $10,000.

On the other hand, average cremation costs offer a lot more flexibility. The cost of a direct cremation, with no service or viewing, is the most affordable option, often ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. A cremation with a memorial service costs more, but you still avoid the major expenses of a casket and a burial plot.

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A Detailed Breakdown of Funeral Expenses

To feel truly in control, you need to understand the individual charges that make up the total cost. The best tool for this is the General Price List (GPL), which every funeral home is legally required to give you. This itemized list is essential when you’re trying to figure out how to compare funeral home prices & packages effectively.

A Quick Checklist of Common Charges:

1. Funeral Home Service Fees

• Basic Services Fee: This is the only fee that’s non-declinable. It covers the funeral director’s time for planning, getting permits, and other general overhead.
• Embalming: This is an optional fee unless you’re having a public viewing.
• Use of Facilities: The cost to use the funeral home for a viewing, wake, or memorial service.
• Transportation: Fees for the hearse and other vehicles.

2. Merchandise Costs

• Casket: Average casket prices can range from around $2,000 to well over $10,000.
• Urn: Urn costs are much lower, typically ranging from $50 to over $1,000.
• Burial Vault: Most cemeteries require this concrete container, which can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.

3. Third-Party Costs (Things Not in the Funeral Home’s Price)

These are fees the funeral home pays on your behalf.

• Cemetery Plot: The cost of the land itself.
• Headstone: The cost of a permanent memorial marker.
• Other Fees: The clergy honorarium, fees for musicians, flowers, death notices, and certified copies of the death certificate.

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How to Pay for Funeral Services

I know it’s a lot to take in, but please know that you have options. There are several resources and financing options available to help ease the financial burden.

Exploring Your Financial Options

• Pre-Planning: Many people choose to plan and pay for their funeral ahead of time through a pre-need plan or a final expense insurance policy.
• Government Benefits: You may be eligible for assistance. The Social Security death benefit is a one-time payment of $255 to an eligible surviving spouse or child.
• Veterans Benefits: If your loved one was a veteran, they may be eligible for burial allowances, a grave marker, and other honors. See our guide on veterans funeral benefits: va burial, headstones & allowances for details.
• Personal Savings or Life Insurance: This is a common way to pay. The payout from a life insurance policy or the deceased’s personal savings can be used to cover the costs.
• Other Options: Don’t be afraid to ask the funeral home about payment plans. Some families also turn to crowdfunding or assistance from community organizations.

For a full overview, see our main guide on funeral costs & financing: navigating expenses and payment options.

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While the average costs can seem high, understanding the breakdown empowers you to make informed choices that are right for you and your family. Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions and to request an itemized quote before signing any contract. The best way to start is by preparing a list of questions to ask funeral directors when choosing a funeral home. You’re strong enough to do this, and being prepared is half the battle.