We routinely save for big life events—weddings, holidays, retirement. But there’s one inevitable cost many of us don’t like to think about: our funeral. Understandably, it’s not the easiest topic to bring up, but having open conversations and understanding the true cost of a funeral can make a huge difference, not just financially, but emotionally, for the people we leave behind.

The good news? When we know what to expect and plan ahead, we can avoid unnecessary stress, reduce costs, and ensure our final send-off reflects our wishes.

So, what does a funeral actually cost in the UK today? And what are you really paying for?

The Cost of Dying in 2025

According to the SunLife Cost of Dying Report 2025, the total average cost of dying—which includes the funeral itself, professional fees, and optional extras like flowers or a wake—now stands at £9,797.

Here’s how that breaks down:

• Basic funeral (burial or cremation with service): £4,285

• Professional fees (legal/admin costs, e.g. probate): £2,834

• Send-off extras (flowers, catering, venue, etc.): £2,678

Let’s zoom in on the funeral itself.

What Does a Funeral Cost — and What Are You Paying For?

A typical attended funeral with a service now costs £4,285 on average. This figure includes the essential elements you’ll likely need—but not necessarily all the extras.

Essential Costs (Core Services):

These are the baseline costs for any funeral, whether burial or cremation.

• Funeral Director’s Fees: This covers arranging the funeral, collecting and caring for the body, providing a coffin, and transportation (hearse and/or limousine). This is usually the biggest single cost.

• Cremation or Burial Fees: Paid to the crematorium or cemetery. Burial typically costs more, especially if a new plot needs to be purchased.

• Doctor’s Fees: In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, two medical certificates are required for cremation unless the death is referred to a coroner. In Scotland, one form is required under a different system.

Optional Extras: Personal Touches (and Added Costs)

Optional additions can make the funeral more personal, but they also add up quickly.

These extras are not essential, but many families include them to honour the person’s memory. However, they significantly increase the overall cost.

Budget Funerals: The Rise of Direct Cremation

An increasingly popular choice for those looking for simplicity and affordability is direct cremation—a cremation without a ceremony or mourners present.

• Average cost of direct cremation (2025): £1,597

This option strips away many of the traditional elements of a funeral—no hearse, no service, no venue—but still provides a dignified send-off. It's the least expensive way to handle a funeral in the UK today.

Hidden and Often Forgotten Costs

Even with a plan in place, there are some costs people commonly overlook:

• Death certificates (multiple copies may be needed for probate/banks)

• Probate fees (especially if there’s property involved)

• Transporting the body (if it needs to be moved long-distance)

• Grave maintenance or annual cemetery fees

• Out-of-hours collection fees

These aren't always included in packages, and families may be asked to pay them separately.

Why It’s Important to Know the Breakdown

Funeral costs have risen 134% since 2004, and they continue to climb. Understanding what you're paying for helps you make better decisions—whether you're planning ahead for yourself or arranging a funeral for someone else.

Some key takeaways:

• Not all costs are necessary; choose what aligns with your wishes and budget.

• Funeral director fees make up the bulk of the cost.

• Optional extras can be beautiful, but they're not compulsory.

• Direct cremation offers a lower-cost, low-fuss alternative.

• Planning ahead now means your family isn’t left to guess what you’d want or how to pay for it.

In Summary

Funerals in the UK aren’t cheap, and they’re only getting more expensive. But by knowing the real costs, what’s essential, and what’s optional, you can make empowered decisions that reflect your values and save your loved ones unnecessary financial pressure.

At The Farewell Guide, we believe everyone deserves a send-off that’s both meaningful and manageable. That’s why we’re here to help you plan, prepare, and personalise your goodbye.

Here are some guides you may find helpful: 

Why Should People Shop Around for Funeral Directors?

How to Pay for a Funeral

How to Get Help with Funeral Costs