Losing someone special will never be easy. The rollercoaster of emotions can peak around the time of a funeral, as many people feel it is too soon to say goodbye and wonder what happens next. The added worry of funeral costs, especially during a cost of living crisis, can take its toll. Here we look at realistic funeral budgets and how to navigate them.
The Average Funeral Cost in 2023
It is important to acknowledge at this point that the average obviously takes into account both extremities – bare basic funerals and larger, more significant ones. But this is a good indication of what you can expect. The average cost for a funeral in the UK currently stands at a little under £4,000. This will, of course, depend on the type of funeral you choose. Cremations are slightly more cost-effective, with an average cost of just under £3,700, with burials costing on average just under £4,800. What you decide on will depend on the wishes and perhaps even the deceased’s faith and their family.
Basic Funeral Costs
The basic funeral costs mentioned above will include the cost of the funeral directors (administration, collecting the deceased, the hearse, the coffin, the funeral cars and family support and direction on the day). You then have to factor in additional costs above the average quoted above.
Additional Funeral Fees
Third-party and optional extra costs may include the following:
- Celebrant fees (£150-£200 typically),
- Potential doctor’s fees (around £165)
- Venue hire and catering (roughly £400-800 depending on location and group size)
- Memorial (approximately £1,000)
- Flowers (anything from £200)
- Order of service (from £100)
- Death notices (£80)
Funeral Costs Depending on Area
Costs relating to funerals will vary depending on where you live. As you may expect, London prices are significantly higher than in other areas. Here we look at the average funeral cost by UK region:
London £5,300
South East and East £4,300
Wales £4,000
East and West Midlands, North West England and Scotland £3,900
Yorkshire and Humber £3,800
North East and South West England £3,700
Northern Ireland £3,300
How to Minimise Funeral Costs
The government have a funeral payment scheme for those on benefits and low incomes. It won’t cover the total cost, but it will help.
Other ways to save on costs include:
- Getting multiple quotes
- Choosing a cheaper coffin
- Picking a cremation time that costs less (they do vary)
- Do not buy too many flowers
- Host the wake at a family home
- Use family cars
Contact Funeral Map for help with funeral planning.
