Nationally, a funeral with viewing and burial had a median cost of $8,300 (2023, NFDA). In Pennsylvania, between 61% and 70% of deaths led to cremation, per early 2025 numbers from the Cremation Association of North America.
Published Pennsylvania costs
County average burial costs from $13,267.50 (Pike) to $27,763.80 (Delaware). Philadelphia $21,803.80. Allegheny $20,942.56.
Help paying in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania DHS through the County Assistance Office. Up to $750. Total funeral cost cannot go over $1,500. No payment if other money for the funeral is $1,500 or more. For people who got SSI or DHS cash help. Official page
Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office. Free. Used when no family is found or family cannot make plans within 15 days. Official page
Medicaid and burial money
All burial spaces are not counted, no matter how many. Up to $1,500 in a revocable burial fund is not counted, minus the value of any irrevocable plan or small life policy. A plan above the county average cost plus 25% may be seen as giving away assets for long term care.
Prepaid funeral plans
Only a licensed funeral director can sell a prepaid funeral. Any money taken must go right away into an escrow account or trust at a Pennsylvania bank. It can only be used for what it was paid for.
Where to complain
Pennsylvania State Board of Funeral Directors, Department of State Website
Plan ahead
A small final expense policy can pay these costs so your family does not have to. Final expense in Pennsylvania.
Common questions
How much does a funeral cost in Pennsylvania?
County average burial costs from $13,267.50 (Pike) to $27,763.80 (Delaware). Philadelphia $21,803.80. Allegheny $20,942.56.. Nationally, the median funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023 and $6,280 with cremation. Prices in Pennsylvania vary by funeral home, so ask for the itemized price list.
Is there help paying for a funeral in Pennsylvania?
DHS Burial and Cremation payment (Pennsylvania DHS through the County Assistance Office); City Cremation (Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office).
Who regulates funeral homes in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania State Board of Funeral Directors, Department of State
