When planning a funeral, one of the most important ways to honor a loved one is through an obituary. An obituary serves as both a tribute and an announcement, allowing family and friends to come together in remembrance. However, the cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on where it’s posted, how detailed it is, and whether the funeral home assists with writing and submission.
Understanding these costs in advance can help families make informed decisions while keeping expenses manageable. Let’s explore the pricing breakdown for funeral home obituaries, publication options, and ways to save money while still creating a meaningful tribute.
Understanding Funeral Home Obituary Fees
The cost of an obituary depends on several factors, including whether it’s published in a newspaper, online platform, or funeral home website. Some funeral homes include obituary assistance in their service packages, while others charge separately for writing and submission.
1. Funeral Home Obituary Costs
Most funeral homes provide a basic obituary template that families can customize. This may be offered at no additional cost if the obituary is published only on the funeral home’s website. However, if professional writing, editing, or submission services are required, the funeral home may charge anywhere from $50 to $300.
2. Newspaper Obituary Costs
Traditional print newspapers typically charge by word count, column inches, or number of lines, with additional fees for photos and weekend placements. Pricing varies:
- Small local newspapers: $50 – $200
- Mid-sized regional newspapers: $200 – $600
- Large metropolitan newspapers: $1,000+ for lengthy obituaries
- Photo inclusion: Adds $50 – $150 to the cost
- Weekend/Holiday editions: Higher rates due to increased readership
For families looking to reach a wider audience while keeping costs manageable, smaller local newspapers are often a more affordable option.
3. Online Obituary Platforms
With the shift toward digital memorials, many families now choose to publish obituaries on online platforms rather than traditional newspapers. Some of the most popular options include:
- Legacy.com – Prices start at $79 and go up to $300+ based on length and duration of publication.
- Ever Loved – Offers free obituary listings, with optional upgrades for additional features.
- Funeral Home Websites – Many funeral homes post obituaries for free as part of their services.
4. Additional Customization Fees
If a family wants to personalize an obituary, additional costs may apply:
- Extended obituary length – Some platforms charge extra for obituaries over a certain word limit.
- Guestbooks and donation links – Some sites charge for features that allow visitors to leave memories or make memorial donations.
- Video tributes and slideshows – Multimedia enhancements can cost anywhere from $100 to $500.
Ways to Reduce Obituary Costs
Publishing an obituary can become expensive, but there are several ways to keep costs down while still honoring your loved one.
1. Use Free or Low-Cost Platforms
Many funeral homes offer free obituary listings on their websites. Additionally, social media platforms and memorial websites like Ever Loved or Tributes.com allow families to share obituaries at little to no cost.
2. Keep It Concise
Since newspapers charge per word or line, keeping the obituary brief and meaningful can significantly lower costs. A 150-250 word obituary can still convey the essential details without incurring excessive fees.
3. Choose Local or Community Newspapers
Instead of placing an obituary in a major metropolitan newspaper, consider smaller local publications, which often charge significantly less—some even offer free basic obituary listings.
4. Avoid Peak Publishing Days
Weekend and holiday obituaries are more expensive due to higher readership rates. Opting for a weekday publication can help cut costs.
5. Write the Obituary Yourself
Many funeral homes charge extra for professional obituary writing. If a family member feels comfortable writing the obituary, it can help reduce expenses while ensuring it’s written in a personal and heartfelt manner.
What Should Be Included in an Obituary?
Whether written by the family or a professional, an effective obituary should include:
Full Name and Age – Including any nicknames or maiden names. Date of Birth and Date of Passing – Providing a clear timeline. Brief Biography – A short summary of their life, career, and passions. Surviving Family Members – Recognizing immediate family and predeceased loved ones. Funeral or Memorial Service Details – Including dates, times, locations, and live-stream links if available. Donation or Memorial Requests – Suggesting charities or organizations for contributions in their honor. A Personal Touch – A meaningful quote, memory, or anecdote reflecting their personality.
Should You Publish an Obituary?
While obituaries are a meaningful way to announce a loved one’s passing, they are not legally required. Some families opt against publishing one due to:
- Privacy concerns – Avoiding potential identity theft or unwanted solicitations.
- Cost considerations – High publication fees can be a deterrent.
- Alternative memorials – Many families now use personal websites, social media, or funeral home pages instead of traditional obituaries.
For those seeking low-cost alternatives, a Facebook post, email announcement, or a tribute on a funeral home website can be just as effective in sharing the news.
Final Thoughts on Funeral Home Obituary Costs
Obituaries are a beautiful and meaningful tribute, but costs can vary depending on where and how they are published. By understanding the pricing structures and available options, families can make informed decisions that align with their budget and wishes.
Whether choosing a traditional newspaper obituary or a digital tribute, there are affordable ways to honor a loved one’s life without unnecessary financial strain. Taking the time to explore funeral home services, newspaper rates, and online alternatives ensures that families can commemorate their loved ones in a respectful and budget-friendly way.
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