Planning a funeral is never easy, and working out how much it might cost can feel overwhelming at first. At Pure Cremation, we believe that everyone deserves clear, compassionate guidance during life’s most difficult moments. That includes understanding the costs involved.
Whether you’re arranging a funeral for someone close to you, or thinking ahead and exploring your own options, we’ll walk you through the latest average costs in the UK, and explain what you’re paying for—and where you might be able to save.
How much does a funeral cost in the UK in 2025?
The average cost of dying in the UK is now £9,797. That includes the cost of a basic funeral, optional extras like flowers or a wake, and professional fees for administering the estate. This is the highest figure ever recorded by SunLife since they began tracking funeral costs over 20 years ago.
A simple funeral with a service now costs an average of £4,285. That includes the funeral director’s fees, a mid-range coffin, one limousine, plus doctor and officiant fees. These costs have risen by 3.5% in the past year, faster than the rate of inflation.
If you choose to include extra touches such as flowers, venue hire, catering or a memorial, these can add another £2,861 on average. And if you need help with the legal side, the average cost of professional fees to administer an estate is now £2,652.
It all adds up quickly, which is why many people are choosing simpler, lower-cost options like direct cremation, where you can say goodbye your own way, without the high price tag.
Funeral director costs
The average fee for a funeral director is included within the £4,285 figure above, and covers a mid-range coffin and one limousine. But not all funeral directors list their prices clearly, so you may need to request a full breakdown. Under current regulations, they must provide a Standardised Price List in-branch and online.
Minister or celebrant fees
Having someone lead the service can offer structure and comfort. Whether you choose a faith leader, humanist, or civil celebrant, this fee is usually included in the funeral cost.
In 2025, these fees vary:
- Religious officiants (e.g. clergy): around £169–£199
- Humanist or civil celebrants: typically between £150 and £350
You can also ask a family member or friend to lead the service, which means this cost may not apply at all.
Burial vs cremation costs
The type of committal you choose will have a big impact on the final cost.
- Average burial cost: £5,198
- Average cremation cost: £3,980
- Direct cremation (unattended): £1,597
- Direct burial (unattended): £1,527 (not including burial plot fees)
Burials are significantly more expensive, and costs can increase if the person isn’t a resident of the local area. In addition to the interment, most cemeteries charge for the Exclusive Right of Burial, grave preparation, and memorial permissions.
Natural burial sites and long barrow niches may offer a more personalised and sometimes more affordable alternative, depending on location.
Additional funeral costs (the send-off)
The send-off includes everything that makes the farewell feel personal, such as flowers, catering, transportation, and a venue for the wake. These are optional, but many families choose to include at least a few of them.
Here’s what people typically spend in 2025:
- Memorial headstone or plaque: £1,038
- Catering: £527
- Limousine hire: £431
- Venue hire: £351
- Funeral flowers: £222
- Order of service sheets: £123
- Obituary: £81
- Funeral notice: £87
These add up to an average of £2,861.
You don’t have to include all of these extras—a smaller, simpler farewell can be just as meaningful, especially if it reflects your loved one’s personality and wishes. Take a look at our free celebration of life guide for ideas and tips.
How to save money on a funeral
A funeral doesn’t have to cost thousands to be meaningful. In fact, many families are finding creative ways to cut back without compromising on love or respect.
Here are some of the most effective ways people reduce costs:
- Choose a pure cremation and hold a separate celebration of life
- Use social media to announce the death instead of paid notices
- Have the wake at home or in a community space
- Choose a simpler coffin or urn
A pure, or direct, cremation remains the most affordable type of funeral in the UK. It costs far less than a traditional funeral and allows families the freedom to remember their loved one in their own time and way.
There is no ceremony at the crematorium, and no mourners are present. Instead, the cremation takes place with dignity and care, and the ashes are returned to the family. Many families then choose to hold their own farewell at home, outdoors, or somewhere meaningful.
Types of coffins and how much they cost
Coffins come in a wide range of styles and prices. Here are some typical costs:
- Cardboard coffin: £250–£700
- Wicker coffin (willow): £400–£900
- Wooden coffin: £500–£700 (more if solid hardwood)
- American-style casket: from £2,500 (can reach £20,000 for bespoke models)
There is no right or wrong choice—just what feels appropriate for you and your loved one. You might prefer something eco-friendly, something traditional, or even something completely personalised. If you want to find out more, we’ve got a helpful article on understanding coffin prices.
Regional differences in funeral costs
Where you live can make a big difference. According to SunLife’s 2025 report, these are the average costs:
- London: £5,449 (most expensive)
- South East & East of England: £4,943
- North West England: £4,297 (13% increase from 2023)
- Scotland: £4,345
- Wales: £4,094
- Yorkshire & Humber: £4,031
- South West of England: £3,966
- Northern Ireland: £3,441 (least expensive)
Prices can vary even within regions, especially for burial plots.
Who pays for a funeral?
Funeral costs can be paid from:
- The deceased’s bank account (funds released with a death certificate)
- Their estate (but this can take months)
- A funeral plan
- A life insurance or an Over 50s plan
- Contributions from family or friends
Thinking ahead with a funeral plan
Funeral plans can help ease the financial and emotional burden for those left behind. By making decisions in advance, you lock in today’s prices and ensure your wishes are known.
It’s not always easy to talk about, but having the conversation now can make things much simpler later.
If you’d like to find out more about how a Pure Cremation plan works, we’re here to help. Just get in touch with our friendly team on 0800 470 23 93 or request your free guide today.
