Understanding funeral costs in Singapore is an important part of planning ahead or managing arrangements during a difficult time. Prices vary significantly depending on the faith tradition, duration, venue, and level of service chosen. This guide provides a transparent breakdown of funeral costs across all major service types in Singapore.
Overall Cost Ranges
Funeral costs in Singapore can range widely depending on the type of service:
- Direct cremation (most economical): $1,300 - $2,500
- Standard 3-day funeral wake: $5,500 - $8,000
- Elaborate traditional funeral: $10,000 - $20,000+
These figures include the funeral service provider's package but may or may not include government fees, catering, and other extras. Always clarify what is included when comparing quotes.
Cost Breakdown by Faith Tradition
Each faith tradition has its own requirements, rituals, and associated costs. Here is a comparison of typical price ranges:
Buddhist Funerals
Typical cost: $6,000 - $8,000
Buddhist funeral packages generally include monk chanting sessions, altar and tentage setup, joss paper, incense, and a casket. Wakes typically last 3, 5, or 7 days with chanting on the first day, last night, and funeral day. The longer duration and multiple chanting sessions contribute to the cost.
For more details, see our guide to Buddhist funeral traditions.
Taoist Funerals
Typical cost: $8,000 - $10,000+
Taoist funerals are generally the most expensive in Singapore due to the elaborate rituals involved. Costs include multiple Taoist priests (4-5 depending on dialect group), extensive paper offerings (houses, cars, servants, gold), lanterns, and ceremonial decorations. Dialect-specific rites such as the Hokkien "Tng Say Hong" ceremony add to the cost.
For more details, see our guide to Taoist funeral customs.
Christian and Catholic Funerals
Typical cost: $3,800 - $8,500
Christian and Catholic funerals tend to be simpler in ritual requirements. Packages include a pastor or priest, hearse, casket, setup, and venue. A "Love Offering" (honorarium) for the clergy is typically additional. Catholic funerals may be slightly higher due to the involvement of a Requiem Mass.
For more details, see our guide to Christian funeral etiquette.
Soka Funerals
Typical cost: $4,500 - $6,500
Soka (Soka Gakkai) funerals emphasise simplicity and sincerity. Chanting sessions are led by Soka Gakkai leaders or practitioners. The streamlined rituals and focus on minimalism keep costs moderate.
Freethinker (Non-Religious) Funerals
Typical cost: $4,000 - $5,500
Freethinker funerals offer full customisation without religious elements. Packages may include photo montages, favourite music, themed decor, tribute videos, and eulogies. The flexibility allows families to tailor costs to their budget.
Muslim Funerals
Typical cost: $1,500 - $2,000
Muslim funerals are among the most affordable in Singapore. The service is swift, typically completed within 24 hours. Costs cover body washing (ghusl), shrouding (kafan), funeral prayer, and burial at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery. Cremation is not permitted in Islam.
Hindu Funerals
Typical cost: $2,000 - $5,000
Hindu funerals are usually a 1-day service with cremation strongly preferred. Costs include a priest (Purohit), chanting from sacred texts, and cremation. The shorter duration keeps costs relatively low.
Little Angels (Children's Funerals)
Typical cost: $1,500 - $3,500
Children's funerals are typically 1-2 days. Packages include special touches such as teddy bear keepsakes and angel gowns. These services are handled with particular sensitivity and care.
Government Fees
Regardless of the funeral service provider you choose, certain government fees apply:
Cremation Fees
| Facility | Cost | |---|---| | Mandai Crematorium (government) | $100 (citizens/PRs) | | Private crematorium (e.g., Kong Meng San) | $300 - $430 |
Burial Fees at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery
| Burial Type | Cost | |---|---| | Christian/Chinese/Hindu graves | $940 | | Muslim/Parsi/Bahai crypts | $315 |
Columbarium Niche Fees
| Niche Type | Cost | |---|---| | Government standard niche | $500 | | Government family niche | $900 | | Niche location selection fee | $250 |
Other Government Fees
| Item | Cost | |---|---| | Coffin/Casket Permit (NEA) | $10 | | Permit to Bury/Cremate (NEA) | Free | | Garden of Peace ash scattering | $320 | | Sea burial/scattering | $100 - $800 |
For a full comparison of columbarium options, see our guide to columbarium niche prices.
Major Cost Components
Understanding individual cost components helps you evaluate funeral packages:
Casket
| Type | Cost | |---|---| | Lightwood casket | $700 - $1,000 | | Hardwood/premium casket | $3,000 - $10,000 |
The casket is often one of the largest cost components. Lightwood caskets are suitable for cremation while hardwood and premium caskets are chosen for their aesthetic and cultural significance.
Hearse and Transport
A hearse typically costs $400 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle type and distance. Some packages include the hearse while others charge separately.
Embalming
Embalming costs $300 to $800 and is recommended for multi-day wakes to preserve the appearance of the deceased. It is not required by law but is standard practice for wakes lasting more than one day.
Venue
| Venue | Cost | |---|---| | HDB void deck | Under $100 (utility fees only; usage fee typically waived) | | Funeral parlour | $500 - $1,800 per day | | Landed property | Free (own property) |
HDB void decks are the most affordable venue option. Funeral parlours offer climate-controlled, private, and fully equipped facilities at a higher cost.
For details on booking a void deck, see our guide to void deck funeral permits.
Tentage and Setup
Tentage and canopy setup for void deck wakes costs $300 to $800. This covers the tent, tables, chairs, lighting, and fans. Funeral parlours typically include setup in their daily rate.
Catering
Food catering runs approximately $15 to $20 per person. Catering is common during multi-day wakes and can add up depending on the number of visitors. Some providers use a consignment model for drinks and snacks where you pay only for items consumed.
Other Costs
| Item | Cost | |---|---| | Home death certification | $200 - $300 | | Newspaper obituary | $300 - $1,000+ | | Biodegradable sea burial urn | $100 - $300 |
Understanding "Nett Pricing"
Many funeral service providers in Singapore advertise "nett pricing," meaning the quoted price is all-inclusive with no hidden costs. However, this is not universal.
When comparing quotes, always verify whether the price includes:
- GST (currently 9%)
- Transport and hearse
- Government fees (cremation, burial, permits)
- Religious officiant fees
- Catering
- Venue charges
At The Funeral Company, we provide transparent pricing with full breakdowns so families know exactly what they are paying for.
Financial Assistance Options
If funeral costs are a concern, there are several avenues for financial support:
CPF Funds
CPF savings cannot be used upfront to pay for funeral costs. However, once the CPF Board processes the death, savings are distributed to nominees and can then cover expenses. For un-nominated CPF, the Public Trustee's Office allows up to $6,000 reimbursement for funeral expenses.
For full details, see our guide on CPF withdrawal for funeral expenses.
ComCare Assistance
Low-income families can apply through their nearest Social Service Office for ComCare financial assistance to help cover funeral costs.
Religious Organisations
Some temples, churches, and mosques offer subsidised funeral services for their members or for families in need. It is worth enquiring directly with the deceased's religious community.
Insurance
While Singapore does not have a dedicated funeral insurance product, existing life insurance policies and the CPF Dependants' Protection Scheme (DPS) can provide payouts to cover funeral expenses. The DPS provides up to $70,000 in coverage for eligible CPF members.
For more information, see our guide on funeral insurance options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest funeral option in Singapore?
The most economical option is a direct cremation without a wake, costing approximately $1,300 to $2,500. Muslim funerals are also among the most affordable at $1,500 to $2,000 due to their swift one-day format and burial-only requirement.
Are government fees included in funeral packages?
This varies by provider. Some funeral companies include government fees (cremation, permits) in their package pricing while others list them separately. Always ask for a complete cost breakdown before confirming.
Can I use the deceased's CPF to pay for the funeral?
No. CPF savings are distributed to beneficiaries after the death is processed, not used directly for funeral costs. However, for un-nominated CPF, families can apply for up to $6,000 reimbursement for funeral expenses through the Public Trustee's Office.
Why are Taoist funerals more expensive?
Taoist funerals involve more elaborate rituals, multiple priests (4-5), extensive paper offerings (houses, cars, servants), and longer ceremony durations. The complexity and material requirements drive higher costs compared to other traditions.
What does "nett price" mean?
A "nett price" means the quoted amount is all-inclusive with no hidden charges. However, always confirm exactly what is included, as different providers may define "nett" differently.
How can I reduce funeral costs without compromising quality?
Consider choosing an HDB void deck as the venue (under $100 versus $500-$1,800/day for a parlour), selecting a standard casket, limiting the wake duration to 3 days, and choosing cremation over burial. A good funeral director will help you plan a dignified service within your budget.
Is it possible to pre-plan and lock in funeral costs?
Yes. Some funeral service providers offer pre-planning services that allow you to document your preferences and lock in current prices. This can help families avoid the stress of making decisions during a time of grief and hedge against future cost increases.