How Much Does a Funeral Cost in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?

Summary

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Families in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, often wonder what influences the cost of a funeral and how to plan in a way that feels thoughtful and manageable. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the national median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial is around $8,300, while the median cost of a funeral with cremation is approximately $6,280. These national figures, accurate as of 2025, provide a helpful starting point when considering funeral costs.

Funeral costs often vary because every family has unique needs, traditions, and preferences. A traditional funeral with a viewing, ceremony, and burial may include several elements that affect the total cost. A funeral followed by cremation typically involves many of the same professional services but may differ in merchandise selections or final placement decisions.

Other factors that may influence overall cost include transportation needs, use of the funeral home’s facilities, and the level of personalization a family prefers. It is also important to remember that NFDA national medians do not include cemetery expenses, which vary by location and are typically billed separately.

Most funeral services typically include professional guidance from the funeral director and staff, care of the deceased, use of facilities for visitations or ceremonies, and transportation. Families may select merchandise—such as caskets, urns, or memorial items—based on their loved one’s preferences and the type of service they choose.

Planning ahead can offer peace of mind for everyone involved. When families understand the general structure of funeral costs and available options, it often becomes easier to make thoughtful decisions and create a meaningful tribute.

Frequently Asked Questions

What influences the total cost of a funeral?

Funeral costs often depend on the type of service, merchandise selections, transportation needs, and the level of personalization a family chooses.

Are cemetery costs included in national funeral averages?

No. Cemetery costs—such as plots, markers, and opening and closing fees—are generally not included in NFDA national averages and are typically billed separately.

Does choosing cremation always cost less than burial?

Not always. While the median cost for a funeral with cremation is typically lower, the total depends on the specific services and merchandise a family selects.

Written for Prasser-Kleczka Funeral Home, proudly serving families in Milwaukee with compassion and care.