How much does a funeral cost?

DOWN TO EARTH

Average funeral costs

An attended funeral is one where mourners are present.

Less expensive attended options are available and direct, or unattended, cremations are now readily offered (average price £1,597 according to SunLife).

The average cost of the attended funeral SunLife tracks is £4,285, though less expensive options are available.

SunLife

Burial

SunLife figures for 2024 show the average cost of the attended funeral with a burial they track are £5,198.

However, the difference in price can be even greater, depending on your location and the cost of burial plots.

If you choose a burial, there are still options for keeping the costs down. Burials can take place in lots of different places and for a variety of prices – faith-based, local authority and private cemeteries, at sea, a woodland site or on private land, including a garden.

When looking at burial options, be aware that many cemeteries will list the cost in two parts; the purchase of the grave (often for a given period of time, such as 50 years), and the digging of the plot, often referred to as the interment.

A group of people are standing in a cemetery with their backs to the camera.

Cremation

Cremation is often a more affordable option than burial and accounts for up to 80% of all funerals.

SunLife figures for 2024 show the average cost of the attended funeral with a cremation they track is £3,980

 

*This includes a burial/cremation, funeral director fees, a mid-range coffin, one limousine to and from cemetery/crematorium, and doctors’ and officiant fees. (As of September 2024, doctors’ fees of £164 only exist in Northern Ireland).

Data from SunLife Cost of Dying report 2025 

This guidance is essential for anyone who is worried about funeral costs.

There are lots of ways to keep funeral costs down, whilst keeping the arrangements meaningful.

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Choosing the type of funeral

Deciding between a burial, cremation or repatriation isn't always an obvious choice. There are ways to keep costs down specific to each option.

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Using a funeral director

There is no requirement to use a funeral director. If you choose to use one remember that, like anything else you pay for, you should be happy with the price you are paying and the service you receive.

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Doing it yourself

You do not have to employ a funeral director and may decide to take care of the arrangements yourself.

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Funeral elements and choices

Words, music, and personal touches can be far more powerful than expensive cars or coffins.

A black couple are sat at a table holding hands. On the table is a paper form and a pen.

Council and hospital funerals

If you have no source of funds, or if you do not want to take responsibility for the funeral for other reasons, the council where the person died can provide a simple, respectful funeral.

SUPPORT AND RESOURCES

More from Down to Earth

Raising money towards funeral costs

There are a range of options for financial support towards funeral costs

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Reducing funeral costs

Guidance on the various ways you can keep costs down when planning a funeral now or in the future.

A black couple are sat at a table holding hands. On the table is a paper form and a pen.

Admin & benefits after a death

Helpful information explaining what you need to do after a death.