Call Tegeler Monument Co. (410) 944-0300 | Call Loeblein Memorials (410) 284-7404

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Image of a person's hand on a casket along with tulips on Tegeler's website

Death is an unfortunate and inevitable part of life. One of the many challenging aspects of losing a loved one is the financial burden that comes with arranging a meaningful, memorable funeral. Funerals can be expensive, and many people are left wondering how much they can pay. In this post, we will explore the costs associated with funerals and offer tips for planning an affordable memorial service.

What Are the Costs of a Funeral?

The cost of a funeral can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, such as:

  • Location
  • Type of funeral service
  • Type of burial (coffin, cremation, etc.)
  • Funeral home
  • Cemetery
  • Memorialization materials
  • Reception
  • Flowers

According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial was $7,640 in 2019. The median cost of a funeral with viewing and cremation was slightly less at $5,150. These costs do not include cemetery or monument fees, which can add thousands of dollars to the total cost.

Here are some of the primary costs associated with a funeral:

  1. Basic services fee: This is the fee charged by the funeral home for services like obtaining death certificates, filing paperwork, and coordinating with other service providers. The basic services fee can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the funeral home.
  2. Funeral ceremony: The cost of the funeral ceremony will depend on the type of service you choose. A traditional funeral with a viewing and burial will typically be more expensive than a cremation or a memorial service. Costs can vary widely, with some funeral homes charging several thousand dollars for a traditional funeral ceremony.
  3. Casket or urn: The cost of a casket or urn can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the materials and design. The funeral home may offer a range of options, including both high-end and affordable choices.
  4. Cemetery fees: If you choose burial, you will need to pay cemetery fees. This can include the cost of a plot, opening and closing the grave, and a burial vault. Cemetery fees can vary depending on the location and the cemetery.
  5. Monument or grave marker: You may also need to pay for a monument or grave marker, which can cost thousands. This cost is typically separate from the funeral home’s fees and will depend on the size, design, and materials used.

Tips for Planning an Affordable Memorial Service

Despite the high costs associated with funerals, there are steps you can take to plan an affordable memorial service:

  1. Shop around: Don’t be afraid to compare prices from several funeral homes and cemeteries to find the best value. Remember, you have the right to choose the funeral home and services that best meet your needs and budget.
  2. Consider cremation: Cremation is often a more affordable option than burial. It can still provide a meaningful way to honor your loved one. Direct cremation, where the body is cremated immediately after death without a ceremony, can be an especially cost-effective option.
  3. Choose a simple casket or urn: You can save money by choosing a simple casket or urn rather than a high-end option. Many funeral homes offer more affordable choices that are still dignified and respectful.
  4. Work with an affordable memorial service: Most people want to memorialize their loved one permanently with a beautiful lasting tribute. This may be a headstone, monument, marker, bench, mausoleum, and much more. You will also likely want to customize your memorial with a meaningful epitaph or some other details. Finding an affordable local grave monument company will make this part of the process simple.
  5. Plan ahead: Pre-planning your funeral can help you lock in lower prices and ensure that your wishes are followed. Many funeral homes offer pre-need planning services that allow you to pay for your funeral in advance.

Work with Tegeler Monument Company for Affordable Memorial Services

If you are in Maryland, D.C., Pennsylvania, or Virginia, and are looking for affordable memorial services, consider working with Tegeler Monument Company. We offer a range of services to help you plan a meaningful and affordable memorial service for your loved one, including cremation, burial, and monument options. We understand the financial burden that can come with arranging a funeral, and we strive to provide transparent pricing and flexible payment options to help make the process as stress-free as possible.

At Tegeler Monument Company, we believe that every person deserves a dignified and respectful memorial service, regardless of their budget. We are committed to providing compassionate, personalized service to every family we serve, and we are proud to have helped thousands of families in Maryland, D.C., Pennsylvania, and Virginia honor their loved ones with affordable and meaningful memorials.

If you are looking for affordable funeral services and monuments, contact Tegeler Monument Company today to learn more about our services and pricing. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate the funeral planning process and ensure that your loved one’s memory is honored in the most meaningful way possible.