The Sticker Shock Nobody Wants to Talk About

Here's an uncomfortable truth: most people have no idea what funerals actually cost. According to Choice Mutual's 2025 Funeral Cost Perception Report, more than half of U.S. adults aged 45 and older think a funeral will run them less than $10,000. The reality? Try somewhere between $15,000 and $20,000. That's not a rounding error—it's a gap that can leave families scrambling for funds during one of the worst moments of their lives.

"Most people underestimate just how much funeral expenses can add up to—when you factor in funeral services, the casket, printed materials, professional services, body transportation and preparation, the total can easily approach $15,000 to $20,000," said Anthony Martin, CEO of Choice Mutual. "That gap between perception and reality often leaves families unprepared."

Why the Numbers Don't Add Up

Part of the confusion comes from misleading industry averages. The National Funeral Directors Association reports a national average cost of approximately $8,300 for a funeral with burial and casket. Sounds reasonable, right? Except that figure typically captures only a subset of what you'll actually pay. It's the base price, not the out-the-door total.

Here's what often gets left out: obituary notices, venue rental for memorial gatherings, food and beverages for attendees, signage, flowers, and printed programs. These add-ons aren't luxuries—they're standard components of most funerals. When you stack them on top of core services like body transportation and preparation, the numbers climb fast. This disconnect between expectation and reality creates financial vulnerability at precisely the wrong time.

The Gender Gap in Funeral Planning

The survey uncovered some interesting patterns in how people approach funeral planning. Among adults over 45, a full 30% admit they haven't given any thought to how they'll cover their own funeral costs. Men are particularly guilty of this avoidance—perhaps unsurprisingly, given how people tend to approach uncomfortable topics.

Gender also shapes attitudes about responsibility. Among the same age group, 85% of women view covering funeral expenses as a personal responsibility, compared to just 79% of men. When nobody takes clear ownership of planning or funding, families end up making hasty last-minute decisions under duress. That's when costs spiral and stress compounds.

Getting Your Financial House in Order

Nobody enjoys planning for their own funeral, but a little preparation now can save your family from financial chaos later. Here's what actually helps:

• Request a detailed cost breakdown. Contact a local funeral home and get the full picture—not just the base service, but transportation, body preparation, printed materials, and post-service gathering costs. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to budgeting.
• Consider alternatives. Full burial with a casket isn't your only option. Direct cremation or a simple memorial service can cost significantly less while still honoring your wishes. Don't let tradition trap you into spending more than necessary.
• Set aside money for final expenses. If you haven't already, start building a dedicated fund for these costs. You never know when you'll need it, and your family will thank you for the foresight.
• Communicate with family. Share your wishes and financial plans with loved ones now. Surprises and miscommunication during a crisis create unnecessary burdens. A simple conversation today prevents confusion tomorrow.

The bottom line: funerals cost a lot more than most people think, and pretending otherwise won't make it less true. Taking time now to understand real costs and make a plan means one less crisis your family has to navigate when grief is already overwhelming.