Britons Are Now Being Urged to Spend £1,700 After Death Strikes: When it comes to life’s toughest moments, few things hit harder than the loss of a loved one. But in the UK today, that heartbreak is being compounded by something else—money problems. According to new reports, Britons are now being urged to spend around £1,700 after death strikes the family. And no, that’s not for luxury or extras—it’s often the minimum families feel forced to cover when planning even the simplest goodbye. Sound shocking? You’re not alone. Let’s break down what this figure means, why it matters, and what real families can do to prepare.
Britons Are Now Being Urged to Spend £1,700 After Death Strikes
At the end of the day, the £1,700 figure is both real and misleading. Yes, you can arrange a respectful direct cremation for that price—but most families spend much more, averaging over £4,000 for a funeral and nearly £10,000 once all extras are included. By planning ahead—through open conversations, pre-paid plans, and smart budgeting—you can protect your loved ones from financial stress during one of life’s hardest moments.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Average cost of direct cremation (UK, 2024) | £1,597 |
| Average cost of a basic attended funeral | £4,285 |
| Total “cost of dying” (funeral + extras) | £9,797 |
| Why £1,700 is trending | Families pressured into minimum spending for cremation, burial fees, or extras |
| Historical trend | Funeral costs up nearly 126% since 2004 |
| Global comparison | Average US funeral: $7,848 (~£6,300) (NFDA, USA) |
| Official support | GOV.UK Funeral Expenses Payment |
Understanding Why the Britons Are Now Being Urged to Spend £1,700 After Death Strikes
So, where does that £1,700 number come from? According to SunLife’s “Cost of Dying” report, the average price of a direct cremation—the simplest form of funeral without a service—is about £1,597. Round that up, and you’re looking at the £1,700 mark. It’s being highlighted in headlines because it represents what’s considered the bare minimum spend today. But here’s the catch: that’s not what most families end up paying.
Historical Context: How Funeral Costs Exploded
Funerals have never been cheap, but the last two decades have seen dramatic price hikes.
- 2004: Average funeral cost = £1,835
- 2014: Average funeral cost = £3,590
- 2024: Average funeral cost = £4,285
That’s a 126% increase in 20 years—far outpacing inflation and wage growth. If this trend continues, experts warn that funerals could top £7,000 by 2034 for even basic services.
Breaking Down £1,700 After Death Strikes the Family
A funeral involves far more than just saying goodbye. Here’s a clearer look at where the money goes:
1. Funeral Director Services – £2,700 (average)
This usually includes paperwork, transport, care of the body, and organizing the service.
2. Cremation or Burial Fees – £800–£1,200
- Cremation fees average £870.
- Burial fees can exceed £1,000, depending on the council.
3. Doctor and Officiant Fees – £250–£300
- Doctor’s medical certificate: ~£82
- Minister or celebrant: ~£200
4. Send-Off Costs – £2,500+
These “extras” can add thousands:
- Flowers: £150–£500
- Catering for a wake: £500+
- Venue hire: £400+
- Memorial headstone: £1,000+
Add it all up, and families easily find themselves facing a bill of £4,000–£10,000.
Cultural Shifts: How Funerals Are Changing
British funerals are undergoing big changes:
- Cremation over Burial: Over 75% of people now choose cremation. It’s cheaper, faster, and more flexible for families.
- Direct Cremation Trend: Once seen as “cold,” direct cremation is now chosen by 1 in 5 families. Celebrities like David Bowie helped normalize it.
- Eco-Funerals: Woodland burials, shrouds instead of coffins, and biodegradable urns are gaining traction. They’re often cheaper and greener.
- Digital Memorials: Online tributes, live-streamed services, and digital guestbooks are increasingly common, especially post-pandemic.
These trends show families are adapting traditions to both budget pressures and modern lifestyles.
The Emotional Side: Why Families Overspend
Money isn’t the only factor here. Emotions play a big role.
- Guilt: Families feel that spending less means dishonoring their loved one.
- Tradition: Religious or cultural customs often require costly ceremonies.
- Pressure: Funeral directors may upsell extras during vulnerable moments.
- Comparison: People worry about “what others will think” if the funeral feels too simple.
In short, grief can cloud judgment, leading to bills that outstrip what families can realistically afford.
Practical Advice: How to Handle Funeral Costs Without Breaking the Bank
Here’s a straightforward guide for families:
Step 1: Understand Your Options
Direct cremation may not have bells and whistles, but it’s respectful and affordable.
Step 2: Consider Pre-Paid Funeral Plans
Pay today’s prices for a funeral in the future. Look for FCA-regulated plans for safety.
Step 3: Use Government Support
The UK government offers the Funeral Expenses Payment. Apply at GOV.UK.
Step 4: Talk Early
Conversations about funeral wishes may feel uncomfortable, but they save stress and money later.
Step 5: Shop Around
Funeral director prices vary wildly. Get at least three quotes.
Hidden Costs Families Often Overlook
One of the trickiest parts about funeral planning is the hidden costs that catch families off guard. It’s not just the headline figure of £1,700 or £4,285—it’s the extras buried in the fine print. Many funeral directors charge additional fees for transporting the body outside normal hours, embalming, or providing a coffin upgrade. Some crematoriums add weekend surcharges, and headstone permits can cost several hundred pounds. Even small touches, like newspaper obituaries, can run £100–£300. These charges creep in during an emotional time, making it easy to say “yes” without realizing the financial impact. That’s why experts stress the importance of asking for an itemized bill up front—so families can make clear, informed decisions instead of being blindsided later.
Comparison: UK vs USA
Funeral costs are not just a UK problem—they’re rising worldwide.
- UK (2024): £4,285 average
- USA (2023): $7,848 (~£6,300) for burial with viewing (NFDA)
- Australia: AUD $7,500 (~£3,900) on average
While Britons technically pay less than Americans, the relative burden feels heavier in the UK due to lower average wages and higher cost-of-living pressures.
Step-by-Step Checklist for Families
- Discuss funeral wishes early
- Research funeral types (burial, cremation, direct cremation, eco)
- Get multiple quotes from directors
- Ask about hidden costs (doctor’s note, transport, grave digging)
- Explore government aid or life insurance payouts
- Keep it simple—dignity doesn’t require extravagance
The Future of Funerals in the UK
Experts predict funerals in the next decade will look very different:
- More Eco-Friendly Options: Natural burials in woodland sites.
- Technology-Driven Services: Online memorials, virtual reality tributes, AI-curated video messages.
- Shift Away from Tradition: Smaller, more personal ceremonies rather than large public gatherings.
- Increased Regulation: The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has already stepped in to demand clearer funeral pricing.
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Expert Tips
- Martin Lewis (MoneySavingExpert): Always shop around—funeral costs can vary by thousands.
- Citizens Advice: Never feel pressured into buying extras. Ask for an itemized breakdown.
- Age UK: Consider over-50s funeral plans but read the fine print carefully.
