Coffin prices vary significantly, ranging from as low as $300 up to $10,000+ for the most lavish and customised designs. While coffins are generally cheaper than caskets, most of the information in this guide is also applicable to caskets.

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Let’s start with a broad overview of the features you can expect a coffin to have at different price points.

Cremation Capsule (Price: $300 – $700)

A cremation capsule (also known as a cremation casket) is the cheapest coffin option for families and they typically range between $300 – $700 in price.

It is a container that is designed specifically for direct cremations (i.e. cremations with no attendance or service). Because the coffin is not seen and will shortly be turned into ashes, families are able to save a significant amount of money by using a coffin that is purely functional without any embellishments. Cremation capsules are generally a simple box made out of cardboard or particleboard.

Not all funeral directors use cremation capsules and might instead use their cheapest coffin for direct cremations. So if saving money by using a cremation capsule is important, it’s best to confirm that your funeral director is able to provide this.

Cheap Coffins (Price: $800 – $1,200)

The starting price for a traditional coffin is around $800, but it really depends on the funeral director. Many funeral directors start their ranges higher at $1,000 or $1,200.

Entry range coffins generally have the following characteristics:

Made from plywood or medium-density fibreboard (MDF)
Plastic handles
Flat lid
May be assembled from a “flat-pack” by funeral staff

Mid-Range Coffins (Price: $2,000 – $4,000)

Mid-range coffins are similar to entry level coffins in that they are also usually made from MDF except they usually exhibit a higher level of detail, use higher quality parts, and are constructed with greater craftsmanship.

Mid-range coffins generally have the following characteristics:

Made from MDF or steel
Metal handles
Tiered lid
Varnish finish
More complex construction and details

Expensive Coffins (Price: $6,000 – $10,000+)

Top of the line coffins start from $6,000 and move upwards quickly. There’s really no limit to how much you can spend on a coffin, with no set rules on customisation or embellishments. Take Michael Jackson’s coffin for example, plated in 14 carat gold, which cost a cool $32,000.

While the possibilities are endless, going to such extremes is not for everyone. More traditional high-end coffins have the following characteristics:

Made from solid wood (usually mahogany, walnut, cherry, maple, oak, poplar or pine)
Alternatively, made from solid copper or bronze
Bronze, copper or precious metal plated handles
Tiered lid
Detailed carvings on the exterior
Velvet interior
Expertly hand crafted

Ask for All Options

Finally, when discussing coffin and casket choices with your funeral director, make sure you ask them about all of the options as funeral directors may not always display or show you the cheapest options.

Choose What’s Right for You

As you can see, coffin prices range quite significantly. from the simplest of cardboard boxes to the most luxurious gold plated, velvet lined caskets. There are also a number of alternative, cheap coffin options that families can explore if they are working to a budget.

Purchasing a coffin is a sensitive experience, so don’t get pressured into buying something you don’t want. The most important thing is that you take the time to consider all of your options and choose what’s right for you and your loved one.

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Peter Erceg

Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.

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