How Much Does a Funeral Cost? The Ultimate Guide to Funeral Costs 

Funerals are expensive. There’s no way to sugar-coat that. But how much do they really cost? What are the typical expenses involved in a funeral? How can you save money on your funeral? In this blog post, we will answer all of those questions and more. We will provide an in-depth guide to funeral costs and offer tips on how to keep your expenses as low as possible. So, whether you are planning for your own funeral or helping a loved one through this difficult time, read on for essential information about the cost of funerals. 

Breakdown of funeral costs 

Funeral Director Fees

The first expense you will likely face is the fee for the funeral director. This is the person who will help you plan the funeral, arrange transportation and handle all the necessary paperwork. Funeral directors typically charge between £700 and £1000, although some may charge more or less depending on their services and location. You can find a list of funeral directors in your area and read recommendations.  

Third-Party Costs

There are a number of other professionals who will be involved in the funeral process, and their fees can add up quickly. For example, you may need to hire an officiant to lead the service, a musician to play music, or a florist to provide flowers. These costs can range from £100 to £500 or more, depending on your needs. 

The Wake

After the funeral service, most families hold a wake. This is typically held at a pub or restaurant, and the cost of food and drink will be added to your bill. If you are renting a space for the wake, there may also be a rental fee. Many facilities have set packages for wakes and will be very used to organising such events. 

Burial Costs

If you are planning a traditional burial, there are a number of associated costs that must be considered. These include the cost of the grave plot, the headstone or monument, and opening and closing the grave to bury the body. Grave plots typically cost between £600 and £2000, while headstones can range from £500 to £5000 or more. Opening and closing the grave typically costs between £400 and £800. 

Cremation Costs

Cremation is an increasingly popular choice for funerals, as it is typically less expensive than a traditional burial. The cost of cremation includes the fee for the crematorium, which typically ranges from £350 to £700, and the cost of a burial plot or urn. Burial plots typically cost between £600 and £2000, while urns can range from £100 to £1000 or more. You can use your own urn, or purchase one from the crematorium. 

Coffin Costs

The cost of the coffin is one of the most variable funeral expenses. A simple cardboard coffin can cost as little as £50, while a more elaborate wood or metal coffin can cost several thousand pounds. If you are planning a cremation, you may be able to rent a coffin for the day of the service, which can save you money.  

However, you can go all out! In 2015, a Japanese company created a solid gold coffin that was priced at $400,000! 

Optional Costs

There are a few optional costs that you may need to consider when planning a funeral. These include things like obituaries, death certificates, and transportation. A death certificate costs around £11, while an obituary can cost anywhere from £50 to £1000 or more. Transportation costs will depend on how far you must travel and how many people you need to transport. Typically, a funeral home will provide transportation for the body and immediate family, but you may need to hire a separate company to transport larger groups of people. 

In addition to the costs listed above, there are a number of optional expenses that you may need to consider. These include funeral insurance, transport for the body and mourners, catering for the wake, thank-you cards, and more. While these costs are not essential, they can help you feel you have ensured you have said goodbye in the most appropriate way.  

So how much does a funeral really cost? 

It depends. A simple cremation with minimal services can cost as little as £500, while a more elaborate funeral with a burial can cost several thousand pounds. The best way to save money on your funeral is to shop around, compare prices, and only pay for the services that you need. With a little planning, you can keep your expenses to a minimum and focus on celebrating the life of your loved one.  

If you are struggling to pay for a funeral, there are several options available to you. The government offers a Funeral Payment to help with some of the costs, and many charities also help. There are also several loan and finance options available, which can help you spread the cost of the funeral over time.  

Setting up a Collection Pot is free, and can help you raise money towards funeral costs, or to support a family member or friend who has lost someone significant.