Average Funeral Costs in New Jersey (2026)

You shouldn't have to become a funeral pricing expert during one of the worst weeks of your life. But here in New Jersey, costs vary so much between providers that a little knowledge can save your family thousands. We've done the research so you don't have to.

Last updated: March 2026

$13,193
Median Burial
$8,290
Median Cremation
$2,904
Direct Cremation
$2,640 - $23,760
Price Range

Cost Breakdown

ServiceNew JerseyNational Average
Basic service fee$3,036$2,300
Embalming$1,023$775
Viewing & visitation$594$450
Funeral ceremony$660$500
Transfer of remains$462$350
Casket (median)$3,300$2,500
Burial vault$2,237$1,695
Cemetery plot (estimate)$1,881$1,425
Total (burial with vault)$13,193$9,995

Compared to the national median, a typical burial in New Jersey costs roughly $4,222 more. That adds up fast when you're already stretching to cover expenses you weren't planning for.

Cremation vs Burial in New Jersey

In New Jersey, approximately 52% of residents choose cremation, below the national average of 63.4%.

New Jersey Cremation Rate52%
National Cremation Rate63.4%

New JerseyFuneral Laws & Regulations

The FTC wrote the Funeral Rule because families were being taken advantage of during their most vulnerable moments. It's still in effect, and it still matters.

Embalming

Embalming not required by state law. Funeral director must offer refrigeration as an alternative

Price Disclosure

New Jersey requires funeral homes to provide a General Price List (GPL) as mandated by the FTC Funeral Rule.

Cremation Waiting Period

New Jersey requires a 24 hours waiting period before cremation can take place.

Consumer Protection

New Jersey State Board of Mortuary Science

How to Save on Funeral Costs in New Jersey

This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services we've independently evaluated.

Here's what actually moves the needle on funeral costs. Not everything on this list will apply to your situation, but most families find at least two or three that make a real difference.

Titan Casket

4.8/5

One of the largest online casket retailers in the US, offering over 1,000 customizable models. Founded in 2019, Titan Casket sells directly to consumers, bypassing traditional funeral home markups.

Pros

  • Largest online selection with 1,000+ models
  • Fully customizable options
  • Free nationwide shipping
  • 24/7 customer support
  • FTC compliance guaranteed

Cons

  • Premium options can be expensive
  • No physical showroom

Best for: customizable caskets, eco-friendly options, wide selection

View Titan Casket

Trusted Caskets

4.5/5

A budget-friendly online casket retailer based in Los Angeles. BBB accredited, offering reliable nationwide delivery of quality caskets at competitive prices.

Pros

  • Competitive pricing
  • Reliable nationwide delivery
  • BBB accredited
  • Good customer service

Cons

  • Smaller selection than competitors
  • Limited customization options

Best for: budget-friendly, BBB accredited, reliable delivery

View Trusted Caskets

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the average funeral price in New Jersey?
The median cost for a burial with vault in New Jersey is approximately $13,193, while cremation with a service costs around $8,290. Direct cremation, the most affordable option, averages $2,904. Costs here run about 32% above the national average.
Do I have to get embalming done in New Jersey?
Embalming not required by state law. Funeral director must offer refrigeration as an alternative Under federal law, embalming is never required for direct cremation or immediate burial. If a funeral home tells you otherwise, they're wrong. You always have the right to refrigeration instead.
Do funeral homes in New Jersey have to accept a casket I bought elsewhere?
They do. Federal law requires every funeral home in New Jersey to accept caskets purchased from third parties, including online retailers. They cannot add a fee for doing so. This alone can save families $1,000 or more.
What is direct cremation and how much does it cost in New Jersey?
Direct cremation is the simplest cremation option. The body is cremated shortly after death with no viewing, ceremony, or embalming. In New Jersey, it typically costs around $2,904. You can still hold a memorial service at a later date.

None of this is pleasant to think about. But families in New Jersey who go in knowing the numbers and their rights tend to feel less overwhelmed when the time comes.

Methodology: Cost estimates are derived from NFDA 2023 General Price List Study national medians, adjusted for New Jersey's regional cost of living using Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Individual funeral home prices may vary. See our full methodology.