US Funerals Online

How much does a funeral cost in the US?

The national median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial is roughly $8,300, while a funeral with cremation is closer to $6,300, according to NFDA data. State and city differences are significant — Hawaii, California and the Northeast tend to be the most expensive, while parts of the South and Midwest are cheaper.

What's the cheapest type of funeral?

A direct cremation is almost always the lowest-cost option. There is no viewing, no embalming and no service at the funeral home — the body is cremated shortly after death and the ashes are returned to the family. National prices for direct cremation start around $795 and rarely exceed $2,500.

Do I have to use a funeral home?

In most US states, no. The majority of states allow families to handle some or all of the arrangements themselves, including transportation and burial on private land. Eight states require a licensed funeral director for certain steps.

What is the difference between burial and cremation?

Burial places the body in a grave, typically inside a casket and often inside an outer burial container. Cremation reduces the body to bone fragments using high heat, after which the cremated remains are returned to the family. Cremation is now chosen for around 60% of US deaths and is generally cheaper than burial.

How do I plan a funeral on a budget?

Start by getting itemised price lists from at least three funeral homes — under the FTC Funeral Rule, every provider must give you one on request. Consider direct cremation or immediate burial, decline embalming where it isn't legally required, and look into veterans and Social Security death benefits.

What is a green or natural burial?

A green burial uses no embalming chemicals, a biodegradable casket or shroud, and a burial site that allows the body to return naturally to the earth. There are now more than 350 green-burial-friendly cemeteries across the US. Costs are typically lower than conventional burial.

How are funeral costs paid for?

Most families pay directly from the deceased's estate or savings, but other options include life insurance pay-outs, pre-need funeral plans, final-expense insurance, veterans benefits, Social Security's $255 lump-sum death payment, and crowdfunding. Some states also have indigent burial programs for families who cannot pay.

Can I ship a body to another state or country?

Yes. Domestic shipment within the US uses licensed funeral directors at both ends and an air-tray or combo-unit casket. International shipment requires consular paperwork from the destination country, embalming in most cases, and a hermetically sealed container. Costs typically range from $2,000 to $10,000+ depending on destination.