The National Funeral Directors Association reported a median of $6,280 for a funeral with viewing and cremation in 2023 (National Funeral Directors Association). That figure leaves out cemetery costs and items bought from outside vendors. Direct cremation, with no viewing, usually costs less than a traditional funeral (Federal Trade Commission). Prices vary widely, so call at least two providers.
What each type includes
| Direct cremation | Cremation with a memorial service | Full funeral, then cremation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viewing | No (Federal Trade Commission) | Usually no | Yes |
| Embalming | No (Federal Trade Commission) | Usually no | Often required by the funeral home for a viewing |
| Container | Alternative container is allowed | Alternative container is allowed | Often a rental or purchased casket |
| Service | None, unless the family holds one | After the cremation, with or without the urn | Before the cremation, with the body present |
| Relative cost | Lowest of the three | In between, depending on the service | Highest; median $6,280 in 2023 |
What goes into the bill
- Basic services fee. This covers planning, permits, copies of death certificates and coordinating arrangements. You have to pay it (Federal Trade Commission).
- Transportation and care of the body (Federal Trade Commission).
- Crematory fee. It may be included. If the funeral home does not own the crematory, it may be added on.
- Container and urn. You can buy an urn elsewhere, and the funeral home cannot refuse it or charge you to handle it (Federal Trade Commission).
- Cash advances, such as obituary notices or clergy. Ask whether the funeral home adds a fee (Federal Trade Commission).
- A cemetery plot or niche, only if the remains are buried or placed in one (Federal Trade Commission).
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Your rights when you shop
- You can buy only what you want. You do not have to take a package (Federal Trade Commission).
- You get a written, itemized price list to keep when you visit.
- You get a written statement of everything you selected before you pay.
Common questions
Is cremation cheaper than burial?
Usually. In the National Funeral Directors Association's 2023 figures, the median funeral with cremation was $6,280, against $8,300 for a funeral with burial. Direct cremation usually costs less than a traditional full-service funeral.
Do I have to buy a casket for cremation?
No. No state or local law requires a casket for cremation. A funeral home that offers cremation must tell you that alternative containers are available and must make them available.
Can I get a price over the phone?
Yes. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral directors must give you price information by phone if you ask, and you do not have to give your name, address or phone number first.
Related guides
Direct cremation
What direct cremation is, what it includes under FTC rules, how it compares with direct burial, and what to ask a funeral home.
How much does a funeral cost?
National median funeral costs, what a funeral home must show you under the FTC Funeral Rule, and a worksheet to total the price list you were given.
What to do when someone dies
A step-by-step checklist for the first hours, the first week and the first months after a death, with the official agencies to notify.
Sources
- 2023 NFDA General Price List Study (news release), National Funeral Directors Association. Checked November 7, 2026.
- Types of Funerals, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 8, 2026.
- The FTC Funeral Rule, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 7, 2026.
- Funeral Costs and Pricing Checklist, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 7, 2026.
This guide explains general rules. It is not medical, legal or financial advice for your situation. Program rules and amounts change, usually each January (Medicare and Medicaid) and each October (VA). Confirm details with the agency or a qualified professional before you decide. See our editorial policy.