Understanding Obituary Costs
Obituary publication can be a surprising expense. Newspaper obituaries are priced by length and can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially in major publications. Online options offer more affordable alternatives.
Local Paper
$100-$400
Standard obituary
Metro Paper
$300-$1,000+
Major publication
Online Only
$0-$350
Varies by features
Estimate Your Costs
Enter obituary details below
Standard: 150-300 words | Extended: 500-1000+ words
Ways to Save on Obituary Costs
Keep It Brief
Focus on essential information; every word costs money
Write It Yourself
Save $100-$300 in funeral home writing fees
Skip Weekend Editions
Weekday publication is often cheaper
Use Free Online Options
Many funeral homes offer free basic listings
Choose One Publication
Rather than multiple newspapers
Share Digitally
Email and social media are free alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Obituary costs vary widely. Online-only obituaries are often free or under $100. Newspaper obituaries cost $100-$1,500+ depending on length, location, and publication. Major metropolitan papers charge more than local papers. Photos add $25-$200 extra.
Most newspapers charge by the word, line, or column inch. Rates range from $2-$20 per line or $50-$300+ per inch. Photos typically cost extra. Weekend editions often cost more. Some papers offer package deals that include a set word count.
Consider publishing in: the hometown newspaper, any cities where the person lived or worked, college town newspapers, and religious/community publications. Each publication charges separately, so costs can add up quickly.
Online obituaries (on sites like Legacy.com, funeral home websites) offer advantages: unlimited length, photos, videos, guestbook features, and permanent accessibility. Many funeral homes include basic online obituaries in their packages. Extended features may cost extra.
Yes, and it can save money. Funeral homes often charge for writing obituaries ($100-$300). Writing it yourself is more personal and ensures accuracy. Most newspapers accept submissions directly, though some require it to come through a funeral home.
Standard obituaries are 150-300 words (basic facts and brief life summary). Feature obituaries can be 500-1,000+ words. For newspapers, shorter is cheaper. Online platforms allow unlimited length. Balance detail with cost when deciding length.