Creating a funeral program involves more than simply printing a folded sheet of paper—it encompasses thoughtful design, heartfelt content, and sometimes professional layout services. In this guide, we break down what drives the cost of funeral programs, compare pricing across services, and help you decide what’s best for you and your family.
1. Factors That Influence Funeral Program Costs
Several key elements determine the price of a funeral program:
1.1 Design Services
DIY Templates (Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, Google Slides): You manage photos, text, and design yourself, saving on design fees.
Professional Custom Design: Hiring a designer or using a full-service funeral stationery provider adds between $90–$300 for 100 personalized programs with basic content
Specialty Cover Crests: Features like custom graphics, collages, or themed layouts can tack on an additional $50–$150 .
1.2 Paper Type & Finish
Standard Glossy/Text Paper (like 24lb): Budget-friendly, usually under $0.50 per copy for large orders.
Premium Cardstock or Textured Sheets: Can add $0.50–$2.00 per program for heavier stock or specialized finishes
1.3 Program Style & Size
Bifold (4-page): Simple layout, costs around $1–$3 each for print runs of 50–100 copies .
Trifold or Graduated Fold (4+ pages): With added folds, cost can range from $3–$4 per copy
Booklet (8+, 12 pages): Booklet style program with multiple interior pages ranges $34.99 each for template purchase, plus printing
1.4 Quantity Ordered
Short-run (50 copies): Higher per-unit costs—often $1.50–$3 each depending on style and finish .
Bulk print (250–1,000+): Lowers to $0.49–$0.85 per copy for 1,000 gloss cover booklets .
1.5 Rush & Extras
Rush Orders: Next-day or same-day printing may incur 25–100% premium.
Proofing & Scans: Digital mockups, file checking, and photo cleanup typically cost $2–$10 per image
Shipping: Courier fees add extra—often $15–$50 depending on urgency and location.
2. How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Let’s look at typical costs for funeral program types:
2.1 Basic Bifold Program (4 pages)
Quantity: 100 copies
Paper: Standard glossy
Design: Premium template + minor customization
Estimated Cost: $150–$300 total ($1.50–$3 per program)
2.2 Full-color Trifold (4 pages)
Quantity: 100 copies
Paper: Glossy premium
Design: Photo layout with templates
Estimated Cost: $300–$400 total ($3–$4 each) funeralprogramsite.com
2.3 Luxury Booklet (8–12 pages)
Quantity: 50–100 copies
Paper: Heavy cardstock cover, standard interior
Design: Full customization, collages
Estimated Cost: $250–$800 total (per-unit $5–$15).
8-page in templates often sell for $34.99 each, plus printing
Printed 8.5″×11″ 8-page programs: $1.99 each for 100, or $0.85 each for 1,000
2.4 Extravagant & Commercial Use
Commercial license bundles run $79.99–$374.99 for multiple template sets, hundreds of pages, and slideshow add-ons
3. Digital Funeral Programs: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
With in-person or livestreamed services, digital funeral programs have become popular. They allow families to:
Display a beautiful slideshow on a screen during the service—no printing required
Include photo transitions, music, and dynamic visuals
Edit up to the last minute and even print, if desired
Costs for digital programs are significantly lower:
Template download: Often free or range from $10–$50
DIY editing: No design fees if using Google Slides or PowerPoint
Printing later: Optional, at standard mailing prices
As more families choose digital tributes, this option brings elegance without added printing expenses.
4. Comparing DIY vs. Professional Services
4.1 DIY Approach
Template cost: Free–$50
Paper cost: $10–$20 for home inventory (500 sheets)
Ink/Printer wear: Variable
Total for 100 programs: ~$100–$200, excluding design time
4.2 Online Print Services
Examples:
PrintingCenterUSA:
100 copies 8-page booklet @ $1.99 each = $199.28, $0.85 each for 1,000
QuickFuneral.com:
4-page template = $25; 8-page = $36; 11×17 = $60
4.3 Full-Service Providers
Include design proofing, custom layout, scannings — $300–$800+
Commercial bundles (funeral homes) cost $79.99–$1,399.99 depending on pages and extras
5. Where Funeral Programs Fit in Overall Funeral Costs
A traditional burial funeral in the U.S. averages around $7,848, cremation about $6,970. The printed program portion is typically:
$195–$300, as part of memorial print packages
If DIY: often $50–$150 total, significantly lower.
This shows printed programs are a small but meaningful expense compared to caskets, venues, transportation, and other ceremonial items.
6. Tips for Affordable and Meaningful Programs
Set a Clear Budget
If spending $3,000+, a premium printed booklet may make sense.
For tight budget (<$500 total), opt for DIY or standard trifold programs.
Volume Matters
Print for distribution, not for everyone—keep some extras for keepsakes.
Bulk printing lowers per–unit cost significantly.
Choose Templates Wisely
Premium templates ($34–$50) can save design time and look professional.
Free or inexpensive templates work well when edited with care.
Go Digital When Possible
Streaming-friendly services can display digital tributes—no printing needed, or keep a few printed for important attendees.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Rush Fees
Rush printing adds ~25–100% cost. Ordering early saves money and stress.
Shop Around
Compare local printers, FedEx, Staples, and online services. Prices range $1.50–$6+ per copy
7. Sample Price Comparison Table
| Option | Quantity | Pages | Paper | Cost per Copy | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY template + home printing | 100 | 4 | Glossy text | ~$1.00 | $100–150 |
| Online booklet print (PU USA) | 100 | 8 | Glossy cover/text | $1.99 | $200 |
| Full-color trifold (quick funeral) | 100 | 4 | Glossy premium | $3–4 | $300–$400 |
| Full-service design & print | 100 | 4 | Premium cardstock | $3.00+ | $300–$500 |
| Commercial 8-page template bundle | 1 | 8 | N/A | N/A | $99–$374 funeralprogramsite.com |
8. Legal Considerations: Get an Itemized List
U.S. funeral providers are required under the FTC Funeral Rule to provide a General Price List (GPL) and itemized statement on request en.wikipedia.org+1reddit.com+1. This helps you understand how much of your budget is allocated to printed materials and choose what’s necessary for your tribute.
Conclusion: What to Budget for Your Program
A printed funeral program can cost anywhere from $1 to $15+ per copy depending on design complexity, paper quality, page count, and print quantity. DIY and digital alternatives offer high quality at lower prices, while printed booklets and full-service options add elegance and convenience.
By planning early, selecting the right format, and comparing pricing across providers, you can create a touching and respectful program that honors your loved one without overspending. Whether printed or digital, a well-crafted funeral program remains a heartfelt keepsake for family and friends—both emotionally memorable and thoughtfully budgeted.
