The loss of a loved one is an emotionally stressful time. In addition to the grief, there are also financial aspects for the relatives. This guide will help you to understand the various cost aspects of a funeral and inform you about support options.
The most important cost factors at a glance
An average funeral in Germany costs between 6,000 and 12,000 euros. However, the actual costs can vary greatly depending on the type of funeral and regional differences.
| Cost item | From | To |
|---|---|---|
| Funeral services | 1.200 € | 2.500 € |
| Cemetery fees | 1.500 € | 4.500 € |
| Coffin or urn | 750 € | 3.000 € |
| Headstone and design | 1.500 € | 5.000 € |
| Funeral service and flowers | 800 € | 2.000 € |
The different types of burial and their costs
Burial in the ground
The classic burial in the ground is usually the most cost-intensive option. In addition to the basic costs, there are also higher fees for the grave and its maintenance. The total costs are typically between €8,000 and €12,000.
Cremation
Cremation is often cheaper than burial. The costs are usually between 5,000 and 8,000 euros. The savings are mainly due to lower burial costs and lower fees.
Natural burials
Burials in the forest and at sea are usually in the middle of the price range. A forest burial costs around 4,000 to 7,000 euros, a burial at sea between 3,500 and 6,000 euros.
Financing options
Who has to pay the costs?
In principle, the funeral costs are paid from the estate of the deceased. If there are insufficient assets, the heirs or next of kin are obliged to pay the costs.
Support options
In the event of financial difficulties, there are various options for support:
- Social welfare office: If you are in need, the costs for a dignified funeral can be covered
- Health insurance companies: Some insurance companies still offer death benefits
- Tax deductibility: Under certain conditions, funeral costs can be claimed as an extraordinary expense
- GoFundMe: With GoFundMe, you can quickly and easily set up a fundraising campaign to receive support
Tips for reducing costs
There are various ways to reduce funeral costs without compromising the dignity of the ceremony:
- Compare quotes from different funeral directors
- Consider alternative forms of burial such as woodland burial or cremation
- Choose simpler but dignified coffin or urn options
- Restrict the funeral service to the closest circle
- Use digital obituaries instead of expensive newspaper advertisements
Further information / sources
- Statista: Average costs of funerals in Germany
- Discover our free Word templates for funeral notices
- What does a funeral advertisement in the newspaper cost?