Russia's funeral costs soar as regional price gaps widen

Families struggle as funeral expenses surge, while providers grapple with taxes and shrinking profits. A sector in crisis reveals deep regional divides.

, and Administrator

2026 April 21 . 10:09 AM

1 min read

The image shows a black and white photo of a casket with flowers on it, draped with a white cloth... — The image shows a black and white photo of a casket with flowers on it, draped with a white cloth and adorned with ribbons. The background is dark, creating a somber atmosphere.

Russia's funeral costs soar as regional price gaps widen

Rising costs for materials, transportation, and cemetery utilities are driving up prices. A full funeral service package now ranges from 100,000 to 400,000 rubles, depending on the region.

A basic set—coffin and burial—starts at around 20,000 rubles in some areas. In Moscow, the same minimum costs at least 80,000 rubles, while in Chukotka, it exceeds 150,000 rubles.

The industry currently faces a cash shortfall of 17–20%. Yet businesses cannot raise prices to cover the gap—most people simply cannot afford to pay that much.

Meanwhile, tax burdens continue to climb. The sector is gradually declining, according to the Professional Qualification Commission for Funeral Services under the National Council at the President.