All the deaths during the pandemic have brought extra attention to this sector. Among other things, this led to the digitization and more competition within the industry. However, making different choices about the funeral can save thousands of euros in Spain.
In 2019, an average funeral in Spain cost €4,522 excluding VAT. These costs include;
- the wake
- a coffin
- caring for the body of the deceased
- the hearse and support vehicles
- flowers
- invitations to the funeral
- the service
- the cemetery costs
Funeral costs in Spain vary considerably
However, this price appears to vary considerably depending on the postal code in Spain. For example, a funeral in Cuenca costs an average of €2,261 and €2,397 in Tenerife. However, for the same funeral, an average of €6,441 is paid in Barcelona. This price difference led to the establishment of online price comparison sites such as Funos in Spain, which allows people to better compare the costs of a funeral.
More Spaniards opt for cremation
According to the National Association of Funeral Homes (Panasef), there are currently 17,682 cemeteries across Spain. However, this is not expected to be the case in the medium and long term as a result of the increasing interest in cremations.
Research by Panasef and Funos showed that in 2005 only 16% of the next of kin opted for cremation. 15 years later, this percentage has tripled to 45.5% in 2020. The main reason why more and more people are making this choice is the lower costs for the complete service and that there is no need to pay for the maintenance of a grave.
According to Panasef, this increase in interest in cremation is more common in the city (60%) than in the countryside (almost 40%).
Online funeral services and communication since pandemic
The article on the price differences for a funeral in Spain by El Pais also draws a different conclusion, namely that the pandemic caused a flight in the digitization process of companies in the sector. Since the pandemic, more people are opting to arrange a funeral online. Digital attendance at services is now offered more often.
Pandemic end of fixed agreements with funeral directors
During the pandemic, an agreement was also reached between hospitals, municipalities, and funeral providers that ensured people can choose a funeral home more freely. Previously, fixed agreements between hospitals and funeral homes drove prices up, especially in Catalonia.
