How much does a funeral cost?

Planning a funeral can be a difficult time both emotionally and financially. Below, we’ve written a simple yet insightful guide on the ins and outs of funeral costs in the UK. We’ll offer a breakdown of funeral costs, including burial, cremation, and third-party fees, to help you make informed decisions when tasked with planning a funeral.

How much does a funeral cost in the UK?

when it comes to funeral costs, there are various things to bear in mind. Costs vary depending on the choices you make as well as the location you’re in. But figures have shown that an average funeral costs around £3,740 in the UK, and the usual range is between £3,000-£8,000.

Funeral costs commonly comprise of the following:

• Funeral director services

• Third-party costs such as burial/ cremation fees

• Extras including flowers and funeral notices

A basic, traditional burial costs around £4,794. For a direct cremation, costs stand at around £1,511. With this option, the ashes are returned to the family so a separate ceremony can be held at the time of their choosing. Or, for a cremation using a funeral director, costs are around £3,673.

In Greater London, a cremation costs on average £4,627, and a burial costs £7,972. Whereas in the East Midlands, a cremation costs £4,278, and a burial costs on average £5,083.

Opting for a funeral director (someone who takes care of the arrangements) is a popular choice, but it is one of the more expensive options.

The director’s fees are usually the most expensive part of the funeral, commonly making up around 50—60% of the total funeral costs. So, if you do go down this route, it’s important to get a couple of quotes before settling on one.

It’s also important to highlight that there might be third-party costs, such as cremation fees, church fees or a medical referee’s certificate. But, if you’re using a funeral director, they will typically manage these payments for you.

What about further send-off costs?

There are various services and items which families may choose to add to a loved one’s funeral. Below are the average costs for these:

• Headstone or plaque: £1064

• Catering: £467

• Venue hire: £312

• Flowers: £210

• Order of service cards: £88

• Obituary: £77
  

On average, extra costs have been found to add up to around £2,300. Also, bear in mind that these extras will inevitably vary depending on the scale of the funeral, family wishes, and religious and cultural preferences.

Who is expected to pay for funeral costs?

Legally, the individual who signs the funeral contract is responsible for making the funeral payments. Pre-paid funeral plans may have been taken out in many cases, whereby someone pre-emptively paid into a funeral plan during their lifetime. Alternatively, insurance policies may have been taken out to cover the funeral costs.

Many people choose to help with funeral costs during their sunset years. They do so in order to reduce the financial burden on their families when they are no longer here.

Many also choose to write down their wishes to ease the burden on their next of kin when it comes to making funeral-related financial decisions.

It’s also important to highlight that there is other help out there when it comes to funeral costs. For instance, if you receive financial help such as Jobseeker’s Allowance or Income support, there are government schemes too.

Saving money on funeral costs

First and foremost, it’s important to respect the wishes of the person who has passed away. However, if you’re struggling with funeral costs, there are things you can do to keep costs down.

• First of all, as mentioned, cremations are usually cheaper than burials.

• Planning a funeral independently, without a funeral director can be more cost-effective.

• Instead of paying a large sum for a venue and a catering service, you could consider having a smaller, more intimate wake at home.

• Another top tip when it comes to cutting back on costs is to get more than one quote if you’re planning on using a funeral director.

• Finally, compare the prices of multiple caterers and florists before settling on one.

It’s definitely possible to arrange a meaningful funeral whilst avoiding unmanageable costs. But, if you’re struggling to pull together funds, we’ve got a guide on 8 ways to get cash fast.

So, while funeral costs can seem daunting, hopefully our breakdown has simplified it for you. Understanding these costs can help you and your loved ones make an informed decision in an inevitably difficult time.

Before you go, make sure to head over to the Moneyboat blog for more insightful guides. There you’ll find blogs on how to maximise your pension, as well as top tips on saving for retirement.