The cost of dying in the UK is rising sharply, at a time when household finances are already under intense strain. The Asda Income Tracker shows that many families — particularly those on lower incomes — are left with little or no disposable income once essential bills are paid, leaving them acutely vulnerable to unexpected costs.
Recent data show that the average cost of a simple attended funeral in the UK has reached record levels of around £4,285, marking a continued increase over previous years.1 That figure has risen by 134% since 2004, significantly outpacing general inflation over the same period — intensifying financial strain at a time of bereavement.
When broader “cost of dying” expenses are included — such as professional fees, memorials and send-off costs — the total average now reaches nearly £9,800, also a record high.
Families are feeling this pressure acutely. Around one in five families report struggling to cover the cost of a funeral, with many...
