Funeral Service Worker Salary (2025): $42,700 Median, $21 an Hour
The median funeral service worker earns $42,700 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent wage data. That works out to about $21 an hour. The top 10% of workers in this field make over $75,000, while the bottom 10% earn below $29,120.
How much Funeral Service Workers earn
The median annual wage for funeral service workers is $42,700. The mean wage is slightly higher at $47,250, suggesting that high-earners pull the average up. Wages range from $29,120 at the 10th percentile to $75,040 at the 90th percentile.
Pay by state
BLS does not currently publish state-level breakdowns for this specific occupation. However, wages generally track local cost of living and demand. Metropolitan areas with larger populations tend to offer higher pay.
How to become Funeral Service Worker
Most funeral service workers complete a two-year associate degree in mortuary science from an accredited program. All states require licensure, which typically involves passing a national board exam and a state law exam. Apprenticeships are common during or after school.
- Earn an associate degree in mortuary science (accredited by ABFSE).
- Complete a 1-2 year apprenticeship under a licensed funeral director.
- Pass the National Board Exam and your state's licensing exam.
- Maintain credentials through continuing education.
Job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not project growth specifically for funeral service workers between 2024 and 2034. Employment is primarily driven by local death rates and can be relatively stable as funeral services are always needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a funeral service worker?
Entry-level workers (10th percentile) earn around $29,120 per year, or about $14 an hour.
Do funeral service workers make good money?
The median salary of $42,700 is close to the national median for all occupations. Top earners make over $75,000, which can be lucrative in lower-cost areas.
What education do you need to be a funeral service worker?
Most employers require an associate degree in mortuary science from an ABFSE-accredited program, plus state licensure.
Is there a demand for funeral service workers?
Employment is stable due to constant need, but BLS has not published a specific growth rate for this occupation.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Funeral Service Workers data.