The median cost of a traditional funeral including embalming and a metal casket is almost $7,045.00 dollars, according to the most recent data from the National Funeral Directors Association.

Not including the grave-site and vault or liner, which can cost an additional $3,000.00 dollars. 

Recent data about funeral costs and the need for more work to be done. It was reported in 2013, by a local funeral director here in Memphis Metro, out of 287 funeral cases, 200 did not have life insurance policies to cover the funeral service and other related expenses. It is projected by 2017 the U.S. cremation rate will reach 48.8% according to the National Funeral Directors Association.