The national median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023, according to the National Funeral Directors Association. A funeral with a viewing and cremation was $6,280.
These numbers come from NFDA's 2023 price study. They are medians, so half of funerals cost more and half cost less.
Cremation is now the most common choice. NFDA projects a 63.4% cremation rate for 2025.
You have rights when you shop. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, a funeral home must give you prices over the phone if you ask. They must give you an itemized price list when you visit.
You can buy only what you want. You do not have to take a package.
You can buy a casket or urn somewhere else. The funeral home cannot refuse it or charge you a fee to use it.
- Viewing and burial: $8,300 median (2023)
- Viewing and cremation: $6,280 median (2023)
- Ask for prices by phone
- Get a written price list
- Compare at least two funeral homes
More questions
Is embalming required by law?
Most states do not require routine embalming. Many funeral homes require it for a public viewing.
Do I need a casket for cremation?
No. No state or local law requires a casket for cremation.
How can I pay for a funeral ahead of time?
Some people buy a small final expense life insurance policy so their family has money for the funeral.
