Choosing the type of funeral

Down to Earth

Sometimes, choosing the type of funeral can seem obvious, and other times less so.

The wishes of the person of who died are very important and it is natural that you will want to honour these if they have been expressed.

Things to consider include:

  • Directions left by the person who has died, or preferences they expressed before they died.
  • The cost of the arrangements
  • Any religious beliefs, personal or spiritual philosophy
  • Environmental concerns
  • Simplicity or convenience of arrangements
  • Where the person lived in relation to family and friends
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Honoring the wishes of the person who has died

The wishes of the person of who died are very important and it is natural that you will want to honour these if they have been expressed.

However, there can be a substantial difference in price between burial and cremation – burial costing over £1,200 more on average across the UK in 2025. In some places, like London, it can easily be twice as expensive. If you are worried about funeral costs and not sure how you will pay for them, perhaps take a little time to think about whether the deceased would want you to take on debt to carry out their wishes.

Repatriations can vary in cost depending on the destination country, but it is important to consider the arrangements in that country as well as the repatriation itself.

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Reducing costs for burials, cremations and repatriations

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

Burial - reducing costs

Burials can take place in lots of different places and for a variety of prices.

Two lit pillar candles

Cremation - reducing costs

Cremation is often more affordable and accounts for 74% of all funerals.

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Repatriation - reducing costs

The cost of a repatriation can be substantially more than the cost of a local funeral.

reducing funeral costs

Other ways to keep funeral costs down, whilst keeping the arrangements meaningful.

A black man and a white man are standing outside. The black man is reading from a book. The white man has his hand on the black man's shoulder.

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.

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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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Admin & benefits after a death

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

Black piggy bank with the word funeral written on it. A white person's hand is putting a coin into the top.

How much does a funeral cost?

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

Photo credits: RDNE Stock Project, Matej Novosad and Roberto Nickson on Pexels