Funeral costs in London remain the most expensive in the UK, according to a 2024 report by financial services provider SunLife.
The average price of an attended funeral across the UK now stands at £4,285. However, in London, that figure rises to £5,449 – an increase of 5.4% from the previous year and 58% higher than the lowest average, which was recorded in Northern Ireland.
The rising costs have sparked renewed concerns over funeral poverty. Quaker Social Action, a charity supporting people facing financial hardship, warned that the financial burden is preventing many from being able to grieve properly.
The government provides limited assistance through the Funeral Expenses Payment scheme, available to individuals receiving certain benefits. However, the SunLife report found that this subsidy typically covers only 46% of the total funeral cost.
Local authorities also offer public health funerals – basic services funded by councils for those unable to afford a private arrangement.
Lindesay Mace of Quaker Social Action said the financial strain often forces people to make heartbreaking sacrifices, such as using rent money for funeral deposits or skipping meals to cover costs.
Clare Montagu, CEO of Poppy’s Funerals, told BBC London that families can still create meaningful farewells without overspending.
She suggested options like simple cardboard coffins that families can decorate themselves, bringing their own flowers, or conducting the service personally without a celebrant or religious official.
Jordan Flynn of SunLife added that Londoners are the least likely in the UK to make financial plans for their own funerals, which places added pressure on loved ones. He urged people to request multiple quotes from funeral directors and ask about cost-saving alternatives.
The report also highlighted that the most popular option remains a simple attended cremation with a service. Direct cremations – which are unattended – are becoming more common due to affordability, costing an average of £1,597.
As funeral prices continue to rise, experts and charities alike stress the importance of early planning, transparency, and exploring lower-cost options to ease the emotional and financial burden on grieving families.
