Average Funeral Costs in the US
According to the latest NFDA General Price List Study, the national median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023. Adding the study's median $1,695 vault brings the total to $9,995.
It's important to note that these are medians. In expensive metropolitan markets like New York or Los Angeles, it is common to see prices reach $12,000–$15,000.
NFDA 2023 national median. Cemetery, monument, flowers, and obituary charges are not included.
NFDA 2023 national median including a $1,695 vault. Cemetery costs remain separate.
NFDA 2023 national median, including an alternative cremation container and urn.
Cemetery Costs Are Separate
Funeral home estimates rarely include the plot, opening/closing fees, or headstone. These can easily add another $2,000–$5,000 to your total bill.
Cremation Costs Breakdown
Cremation has surpassed burial as the most popular choice in the US, largely due to cost. However, "cremation" can mean many things, from a simple direct disposition to a full service that just ends in cremation instead of burial.
Complete Expense Breakdown
Every charge on a funeral bill generally falls into one of these six categories. Understanding them gives you the power to know what is mandatory and what is optional.
1. Basic Services Fee
The only non-declinable fee. Covers professional time, compliance with death certificates and permits, and 24/7 availability.
2. Transportation
Transfer of remains to funeral home and to the final destination. Hearses for procession are additional.
3. Embalming & Prep
Chemical preservation. Rarely required by law unless crossing state lines or viewing is delayed.
4. Facilities & Staff
Use of viewing rooms, chapel, and staff coordination for the ceremony.
5. Casket / Container
Often the largest single expense. You can buy one from a third party (like Costco) and the funeral home must accept it.
6. Printed Materials
Memorial programs, prayer cards, and register books. Often cheaper to print yourself.
Burial vs. Cremation
Side-by-side comparison of the two most common options.
| Factor | Traditional Burial | Cremation |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Total Cost | $9,995 – $15,000+ | $1,500 – $7,000 |
| Timeline | Immediate (Days) | Flexible (Weeks/Months) |
| Permanent Place | Cemetery | Optional |
| Portable? | No (Fixed) | Yes |
Funeral costs vary significantly by state — from around $6,000 in Mississippi to nearly $15,000 in Hawaii. See full state-by-state breakdown →
Compare three providers with the free workbook
Use the FTC-based call script and record matching itemized prices side by side.
How to Reduce Costs
Shop Around
Prices can vary by 300% in the same city. Call at least 3 providers.
Buy Outside Casket
You can buy a casket from Costco or Amazon. The funeral home must accept it.
Decline Embalming
It is rarely required by law. Refrigeration is a cheaper alternative.
Itemize
Don't buy a package if it has items you don't want. Pick and choose.
Your Legal Rights
The FTC Funeral Rule protects you. You have the right to:
- 1
Get a Price List
Funeral homes must give you a General Price List (GPL) if you ask in person.
- 2
Get Pricing Over the Phone
They cannot refuse to answer pricing questions when you call.
Planning Checklist
- Request the General Price List (GPL)
- Contact at least 3 funeral homes
- Ask about immediate burial or direct cremation prices
- Check if the provider allows outside caskets
- Confirm if embalming is legally required
- Ask for a written statement of goods and services