Nationally, a funeral with viewing and burial had a median cost of $8,300 (2023, NFDA). In Tennessee, between 41% and 50% of deaths led to cremation, per early 2025 numbers from the Cremation Association of North America.
Help paying in Tennessee
Metro Nashville Social Services (Davidson County). Covers a basic casket, a grave in a Metro cemetery, vault, and marker, or cremation. Income must be under 100% of the poverty line. Call 615 862 6458. Official page
Medicaid and burial money
A revocable prepaid burial contract counts. An irrevocable one made on or after 7/1/1995 is not counted if it is signed, lists the services and prices, states the total, and says in writing the money is not refundable. Up to $1,500 can be kept as a burial reserve.
Prepaid funeral plans
The Burial Services Section of the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance registers preneed sellers. State trust language says the seller must put all funds from a preneed contract with the trustee within 15 days. The trustee cannot shrink the principal.
Where to complain
Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors, Embalmers and Burial Services, Department of Commerce and Insurance Website
Plan ahead
A small final expense policy can pay these costs so your family does not have to. Final expense in Tennessee.
Common questions
How much does a funeral cost in Tennessee?
Nationally, the median funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023 and $6,280 with cremation. Prices in Tennessee vary by funeral home, so ask for the itemized price list.
Is there help paying for a funeral in Tennessee?
Burial Assistance (Metro Nashville Social Services (Davidson County)).
Who regulates funeral homes in Tennessee?
Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors, Embalmers and Burial Services, Department of Commerce and Insurance
