How much does a funeral cost?
Find out about the costs you’ll need to consider when planning a funeral
Key points:
- Funeral costs vary by service type, location, and extras like flowers or catering.
- A direct cremation is typically the least expensive option.
- Costs can be reduced by simplifying arrangements and comparing funeral director packages.
The cost of a funeral can vary a lot depending on the type of service you choose, the location, and any extras you may wish to include. Funerals are often significant expenses, so learning more about the potential costs can help you to plan ahead. You might consider taking out a funeral plan or purchasing life insurance. Both of these options could help ensure there are no outstanding costs for your loved ones after you're gone.
How much does a funeral cost?
In the UK, the average funeral cost is around £5,077 for a burial and £3,795 for a cremation Footnote [1]. This includes basic services such as a coffin, a hearse, and professional fees. This doesn’t include additional expenses such as flowers, catering, or a burial plot. A funeral provider will be able to give you an exact quote based on your specific requirements.
Prices can also vary widely based on location and the specific services you choose.
You can use our funeral cost calculator to work out how much you may want to consider setting aside for a funeral.
What is the cheapest type of funeral?
The cheapest type of funeral is usually a direct cremation. This no-frills option involves a simple cremation without a service, which means there is no viewing or ceremony at the crematorium. On average, direct cremations can cost as little as £1,500 Footnote [1].
This option allows families to hold a separate memorial service at a later date, which can be more personal and potentially less costly than a traditional funeral service.
Why are funeral costs so high?
Funeral costs can be higher than you expect for several reasons:
- Professional services, such as those provided by funeral directors, can be costly as they personally manage much of the planning which goes into a funeral.
- Coffins can also be expensive, especially if they’re made from high-quality materials.
- Fees for burial plots can be higher than you’d expect, particularly in urban areas where space is limited.
There are also additional services you might want to add on to your funeral, such as flowers, transportation, and catering, which all add to the cost.
How can I reduce the cost of a funeral?
Funerals don’t have to be expensive. There are many ways to reduce the overall price:
- One option is to opt for a direct cremation, which is usually the least expensive type of funeral.
- You can also consider choosing a simpler coffin and reducing the number of cars required for transport.
- Hosting a smaller, private ceremony or memorial service can help lower costs.
- Additionally, comparing prices from different funeral directors and choosing one that offers packages suited to your budget can make a difference.
Some people also choose to handle certain aspects themselves, such as arranging flowers or catering, to save money.
Can life insurance pay for a funeral?
Yes, life insurance could help cover funeral costs.
Life insurance is designed to help your family cope financially when you pass away. In addition to helping ease the financial burden on your loved ones, the payout could help to cover the cost of your funeral. Everyone has different financial needs, so its worth considering the range of products available in the insurance market to make sure you choose a policy that's right for you.
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