How Much Does a Funeral Cost in Idaho?

How much does a funeral cost in Idaho?

A traditional funeral with viewing and burial in Idaho averages approximately $6,500 to $8,500 for funeral home charges, below the national median of $8,300. With cemetery costs, the total typically reaches $8,500 to $12,000.

Costs vary by region:

• Boise and Idaho Falls. Urban areas tend to be closer to the national average with more provider options.
• Rural communities. Costs can be 15 to 25% lower, though service options may be more limited.

---

How much does cremation cost in Idaho?

Idaho's cremation rate is approximately 65%, slightly above the national average of 63%.

• Direct cremation. Averages about $1,200 to $2,000 statewide.
• Cremation with memorial service. Typically $3,500 to $5,500.
• Full-service cremation. Can reach $6,000 to $8,000 with embalming, viewing, and a traditional service before cremation.

---

What regulations apply in Idaho?

• Funeral director licensing required. Idaho requires licensing through the Board of Morticians.
• No embalming requirement. Idaho does not require embalming by state law. Refrigeration is an acceptable alternative.
• Pre-need contract protections. Pre-need funeral contracts must comply with state trust requirements. A percentage of the funds must be placed in trust.
• Private burial permitted. Burial on private property is legal in Idaho with county health district approval. Contact your local health district for requirements.
• No casket required for cremation. Federal law requires funeral homes to offer alternative containers.

---

Ways to reduce funeral costs in Idaho

• Choose direct cremation. At $1,200 to $2,000, direct cremation is far less expensive than a traditional funeral.
• Consider private burial. Idaho allows burial on private property with health district approval, eliminating cemetery plot costs.
• Buy a casket separately. Online caskets at $1,000 to $2,000 are often less than half the funeral home's price. Funeral homes must accept outside purchases.
• Compare prices in your area. Larger cities like Boise have multiple funeral homes. Request the General Price List from several providers.
• Use a VA national cemetery. Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise provides free burial for eligible veterans.

---

What makes Idaho different?

Below-average costs. Idaho's lower cost of living translates to funeral costs that are consistently below the national median, particularly in rural areas.

Community property state. Idaho is one of nine community property states. This affects how funeral expenses are paid from the estate, as the surviving spouse's half of community property is generally not used to pay the deceased's debts.

Private burial is legal. Idaho explicitly allows burial on private property with health district approval, which is less common than many people realize.

Related guides for Idaho:

• How much does a funeral cost? (national overview)
• How probate works in Idaho
• How to get death certificates in Idaho

---