Average Funeral Cost in Wilkes-Barre, PA
2026 Funeral Cost Data & How to Cover These Expenses
- Average Local Cost: The baseline cost for a traditional funeral and burial in Wilkes-Barre is $9,100.
- Cremation Savings: Direct cremation in Pennsylvania averages $1,200–$2,800, offering a 50–70% cost reduction over full traditional burial.
- Insurance Protection: State-regulated final expense life insurance covers these costs starting under $1.50/day with locked lifetime rates and no medical exam.
Itemized Funeral Cost Breakdown in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Based on national actuarial surveys and 2026 NFDA cost baseline estimates for Wilkes-Barre:
| Funeral Service Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Services Fee (Funeral Director & Staff) | $2,275 |
| Embalming & Body Preparation | $800 |
| Viewing Facilities & Hearse Transportation | $910 |
| Standard Casket or Urn | $2,730 |
| Cemetery Plot / Vault / Burial Fees | $1,365 |
| Total Estimated Funeral & Burial Cost | $9,100 |
Wilkes-Barre vs. Pennsylvania Average
The average funeral cost in Wilkes-Barre is $9,100, which is close to the Pennsylvania state average of $9,100.
Cover Your Funeral Costs for Pennies on the Dollar
Instead of saving $9,100 in cash, you can lock in coverage for as little as $1/day with burial insurance.
Get Wilkes-Barre Burial Insurance Rates →How to Pay for a Funeral in Wilkes-Barre
If you're concerned about funeral costs in Wilkes-Barre, here are your options:
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Cremation vs. Burial Costs in Pennsylvania
If cost is a major concern, cremation is significantly less expensive than traditional burial:
| Option | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Direct Cremation (no service) | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Cremation with Service | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Traditional Burial | $9,100 |
Burial insurance covers either option — your beneficiary receives the full death benefit and can use it however they choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average funeral cost in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania?
The average funeral cost in Wilkes-Barre is $9,100. This includes the casket, funeral home services, cemetery plot, and basic burial or cremation. Prices vary based on the funeral home and services selected.
How can I pay for a funeral in Wilkes-Barre?
You can pay through savings, burial insurance, life insurance, payment plans, or crowdfunding. Burial insurance is the most affordable option — coverage starts at $1/day for seniors 50-85.
Is cremation cheaper than burial in Pennsylvania?
Yes, cremation typically costs 40-60% less than traditional burial in Pennsylvania. A direct cremation runs $1,000-$3,000, while traditional burial averages $9,100.
What does burial insurance cover?
Burial insurance (final expense insurance) pays a lump sum to your beneficiary upon death. They can use it for funeral costs, medical bills, or any other expenses. Most plans require no medical exam.
Looking for burial insurance in Wilkes-Barre? Compare final expense rates for Wilkes-Barre residents →