Comparison
Funeral vs Memorial service
By Karl-Gustav Kallasmaa · Updated June 2026
The defining difference is whether the body is present. A funeral is held with the body present, typically within a few days and before burial or cremation. A memorial service is held without the body, often after cremation, so it can be scheduled weeks later and more flexibly — which usually makes it less expensive.
Funeral versus Memorial service, compared
| Funeral | Memorial service | |
|---|---|---|
| Is the body present? | Yes | No (often after cremation) |
| Timing | Usually within a week | Flexible — days to weeks later |
| Typical setting | Funeral home or place of worship | Anywhere — home, venue, outdoors |
| Cost impact | Higher (viewing, casket, sooner) | Often lower, more flexible |
| Formality | More structured | Often more personal/relaxed |
Figures are typical national ranges and vary widely by area and provider. Under the FTC Funeral Rule you're entitled to an itemized price list — always confirm prices directly.
Choose funeral
Choose a funeral if a viewing and the body's presence matter to the family.
Choose memorial service
Choose a memorial service for flexibility, lower cost, or to let distant family gather.
Common questions
- What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?
- A funeral is held with the body present, usually before burial or cremation. A memorial service is held without the body, frequently after cremation, and can be scheduled more flexibly. Both honor the person; they differ mainly in timing and whether the body is there.
- Is a memorial service cheaper than a funeral?
- Usually, yes. Because there's no body present, a memorial service often skips embalming, a viewing casket, and the time pressure of an at-need funeral, which lowers the cost. Pairing a direct cremation with a later memorial is one of the most affordable approaches.
- Can you have both a funeral and a memorial service?
- Yes. Some families hold a small funeral or graveside service soon after death and a larger memorial weeks later so more people can attend. There's no rule against marking the loss more than once.