Burial & Final Expense Cost Estimator
Estimate the cost of a funeral, burial or cremation, and how much insurance you need to leave for final expenses.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a funeral actually cost?
The 2024 national average is $9,480 for a traditional funeral with viewing and burial, according to NFDA. Add a cemetery plot ($2,000-10,000) and headstone ($1,000-5,000) and the total is easily $15,000+. Direct cremation without any service is $1,500-3,500.
Do I need burial insurance?
If you have $10,000+ in liquid savings earmarked for this, no. If you don't, a small whole life or final-expense policy ($10k-$25k) can give your family peace of mind and avoid financial stress at an emotional time. Shop around — final expense policies vary a lot.
What's a 'pre-need' funeral plan?
Pre-need plans let you lock in prices at today's rates and make payments over time. They're regulated by state insurance departments but have a bad reputation for sales tactics. If you consider one, get a price list first, understand all fees, and make sure you can cancel if you change your mind.