London's Funeral Costs Surge to Highest in the UK, Report Reveals

According to a recent report by SunLife, the average cost of an attended funeral in London reached £5,449 in 2024, making it the most expensive in the United Kingdom. This figure represents a 5.4% increase from the previous year and is 58% higher than the average cost in Northern Ireland, which is the least expensive region for funeral services. The escalating costs have reignited concerns over funeral poverty, which can rob families of their ability to grieve properly, as highlighted by Lindesay Mace, a strategic leader at Quaker Social Action.

The report outlines that the overall cost of dying, including funeral expenses and related fees, has climbed to an average of £9,797 in 2024, the highest recorded level to date. Mace stated, "We hear so often from people that they don’t have the mental space to grieve because all they can do is think about how they’re going to pay the costs." This financial burden forces some individuals to divert funds from essential living expenses to cover funeral costs, leading to an untenable financial strain.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers a Funeral Expenses Payment scheme, which assists those on specific income-related benefits. However, according to the SunLife report, this subsidy typically covers only about 46% of total funeral costs. As funeral prices have outstripped general inflation over the past two decades, the inadequacy of government support has become increasingly evident.

In contrast, Clare Montagu, Chief Executive of Poppy’s Funerals, emphasized that there are methods to alleviate costs without compromising the meaningfulness of funerals. "You could have a simple cardboard coffin and make it personal by decorating it yourself," she suggested, encouraging families to consider alternatives to traditional services.

The findings also indicate a shift in consumer preferences, with a notable increase in the popularity of direct cremations. These unattended services now account for approximately 20% of funerals, up from just 2% in 2019, according to Dan Garrett from Dignity, a leading funeral services provider. Direct cremations are generally more affordable, with an average cost of £1,597.

Jordan Flynn, a spokesperson for SunLife, noted that London has the lowest rate of individuals making financial provisions for their own funerals, coupled with the highest number of funeral organizers expressing significant financial concerns. Flynn advised families to seek multiple quotes from funeral directors to explore potential cost-saving options.

The report underscores the broader societal issue of funeral affordability and the need for increased awareness and support for bereaved families. With funeral costs continuing to rise, it is imperative for policymakers and organizations to address these challenges to ensure that individuals can honor their loved ones without facing undue financial hardship.