Discussing funeral costs is never easy. It’s a topic many of us avoid because it’s tied to loss and discomfort. However, thinking about it now isn’t about dwelling on the inevitable; it’s about providing one of the most lasting gifts you can give your family: peace of mind.
Taking a few minutes to understand the actual costs today can prevent your loved ones from facing financial stress during an already heartbreaking time. This guide will walk you through the real costs, state by state, and show you a simple way to ensure everything is taken care of.
What is the National Average Cost of a Funeral?
According to the most recent data from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of an adult funeral with a viewing and burial is $8,300. For a funeral with cremation, the median cost is $6,280.
It’s crucial to know that these figures often don’t include common expenses like a cemetery plot, a grave marker, or flowers, which can easily add another $2,000 to $5,000 to the final bill.
Let’s break down what goes into those numbers:
| Item / Service | Median Cost (Burial) | Median Cost (Cremation) |
| Non-declinable Basic Services Fee | $2,495 | $2,495 |
| Removal/Transfer of Remains | $395 | $395 |
| Embalming / Other Preparation | $845 | $375 |
| Casket / Cremation Casket | $2,500 | $1,310 |
| Use of Facilities for Viewing/Service | $475 | $450 |
| Hearse / Service Car | $370 | $150 |
| Urn | N/A | $295 |
| Printed Materials (Memorial Package) | $195 | $195 |
| Total Median Cost | $8,300 | $6,280 |
Source: NFDA 2023 Cost of Attendance Study
2025 Average Funeral Costs: State-by-State Estimates
Where you live has a significant impact on the final cost. Below is the estimated average cost for a standard funeral service with burial in every state for 2025.
| State | Estimated Average Cost | State | Estimated Average Cost |
| Alabama | $7,900 | Montana | $7,750 |
| Alaska | $9,950 | Nebraska | $8,500 |
| Arizona | $7,400 | Nevada | $7,100 |
| Arkansas | $7,300 | New Hampshire | $9,400 |
| California | $8,900 | New Jersey | $9,800 |
| Colorado | $8,100 | New Mexico | $7,600 |
| Connecticut | $10,200 | New York | $10,500 |
| Delaware | $9,500 | North Carolina | $7,500 |
| Florida | $8,100 | North Dakota | $8,200 |
| Georgia | $7,800 | Ohio | $8,400 |
| Hawaii | $11,500 | Oklahoma | $7,600 |
| Idaho | $7,500 | Oregon | $8,300 |
| Illinois | $9,200 | Pennsylvania | $9,100 |
| Indiana | $8,300 | Rhode Island | $9,700 |
| Iowa | $8,700 | South Carolina | $7,700 |
| Kansas | $8,400 | South Dakota | $8,100 |
| Kentucky | $7,800 | Tennessee | $7,600 |
| Louisiana | $8,100 | Texas | $8,000 |
| Maine | $9,300 | Utah | $7,200 |
| Maryland | $9,900 | Vermont | $9,600 |
| Massachusetts | $10,400 | Virginia | $8,500 |
| Michigan | $8,800 | Washington | $8,600 |
| Minnesota | $8,900 | West Virginia | $8,300 |
| Mississippi | $7,200 | Wisconsin | $8,600 |
| Missouri | $8,100 | Wyoming | $7,900 |
Estimates are based on 2023 NFDA data, adjusted for inflation and regional price variances.
Final Expense Insurance vs. Savings: A Quick Comparison
Seeing these numbers, you might think, “I’ll just set aside money in savings.” While saving is always wise, a dedicated final expense policy offers key advantages designed to protect your family from stress. Here’s why it matters:
| Feature | Final Expense Policy | Personal Savings |
| Availability | Paid out in days. The cash is available almost immediately for its intended purpose. | Can be frozen. Bank accounts may be inaccessible for weeks or months until the estate is settled. |
| Taxes | 100% Tax-Free. The full benefit amount goes to your beneficiary. | May be taxed. Any interest earned on the savings is subject to income tax. |
| Protection | Guaranteed & Protected. The money is shielded from late-life medical bills or creditors. | Vulnerable. Savings can be quickly depleted by unexpected medical costs or end-of-life care. |
| Payout | A guaranteed amount. Your family receives the full policy amount, regardless of how much you’ve paid in premiums. | Depends on what’s left. The amount available is only what you managed to save, minus any withdrawals. |
A final expense policy isn’t just a check; it’s a tool that provides immediate, tax-free cash right when your family needs it most, ensuring they don’t have to use credit cards or their own funds to cover your final wishes.
The Path to Peace of Mind
The solution is often far simpler and more affordable than people realize. A Final Expense Life Insurance policy is specifically designed to cover these costs.
- Secure Your Plan: It’s a small policy, typically between $5,000 and $25,000. You choose an affordable monthly premium that is designed to never increase.
- Live Confidently: Most seniors, even with common health conditions, can get approved, often with no medical exam required.
- Protect Your Family: Your beneficiary receives a quick, tax-free cash payment to cover the funeral, burial, and any other final bills. Any money left over is theirs to keep.
At Sagewise, our entire focus is on helping seniors compare these plans from top-rated insurance carriers. Our service is 100% free, and there is no obligation. We provide clear, honest information so you can make a confident choice.
Know Your Rights as a Consumer
When planning, it’s vital to be an informed consumer. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the “Funeral Rule,” which gives you the right to buy goods and services separately. You do not have to accept a pre-set package. You can learn more about your rights on the FTC’s Consumer Advice website.
For additional checklists and guidance on end-of-life planning, non-profit organizations like AARP offer excellent, unbiased resources for seniors and their families.
Planning for your final expenses is a responsible and loving act. By taking care of it now, you ensure your family can focus on what truly matters: honoring your memory.
Ready to see how affordable it can be to protect your family? Get a free, instant quote to compare your options today.
