While the prices for many goods and services are increasing rapidly, the cost of a funeral is not growing as fast as the rate of inflation.
According to the 2021 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Member General Price List Study, the median cost of a funeral has increased only 6.6% over the past five years to $7,848 and the median cost of a funeral with cremation increased 11.3% to $6,970. The overall rate of inflation was 13.98% for the same
period.
“Funeral homes offer a wide variety of options to meet financial needs and wishes. The primary role of funeral directors remains helping families understand the many options available to help them in order to commemorate the life of their loved one in meaningful way,” said NFDA Research Manager Deana Gillespie. “Every funeral home offers a unique services and pricing structure. Families should look for a funeral home that has a strong reputation with licensed funeral directors who understand their emotional needs and will be sensitive to their budget.”
The survey was completed anonymously by 814 NFDA members. The full report is available for free to NFDA members and $175 for non-members at NFDA.org/store.