What Does the Average Funeral Cost in 2023?

In 2023, average funeral costs range from $7,000 to $12,000 in the United States. This includes expenses like:

  • Funeral home services fee
  • Preparation of the body (embalming, dressing, cosmetics)
  • Use of facility for viewing and funeral ceremony
  • Hearse transportation
  • Basic casket

Cremations average $6,000-$7,000 including the cremation fee and basic urn. Cemetery plot, headstone, flowers and other add-ons are additional.

Over the decades, funeral prices have steadily risen. Lavish caskets alone can cost thousands. Given today's high price tag, it's wise for consumers to compare costs from different funeral homes and consider lower-priced options.

Pre-Plan to Control Funeral Costs

Pre-planning and budgeting for a funeral can greatly help minimize expenses for yourself and your loved ones. Even basic funeral services can strain finances when unexpected costs arise.

To keep funeral spending in check:

  • Research average funeral costs in your area, including service fees, preparation, caskets, urns, etc.
  • Decide which elements are essential, nice-to-have, or skippable for your situation. Avoid unnecessary add-ons.
  • Compare quotes from at least 3 funeral homes to price shop for the best value. Significant cost differences exist.
  • Consider lower cost options like direct cremation or immediate burial.
  • Pre-pay some funeral expenses through pre-need insurance plans.

Knowledge is power when it comes to navigating funeral costs. Take time to educate yourself on reasonable pricing and selective choices to ease the financial burden on your family.

How Life Insurance Can Cover Funeral Costs

Life insurance provides an efficient way to pre-fund funeral and end-of-life expenses so your loved ones aren't burdened.

Final expense life insurance is specifically designed to cover funeral bills, medical debts, and other costs survivors may face. Also called burial insurance, it provides an immediate payout to beneficiaries upon death.

With the average funeral now exceeding $7,000, final expense coverage brings peace of mind. Your family can honor your wishes without worrying about high bills.

When shopping for burial insurance, look for policies with benefit amounts to sufficiently cover potential expenses, quick payouts to your beneficiaries, and pricing within your budget. Compare quotes to maximize value.

By pre-planning with life insurance, you can protect your family from steep funeral costs. Discuss options with an agent to put your mind at ease.

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