Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 25,700 morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers, and they earn a median of $49,800/year. The range runs from $31K to $86K. Delaware pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($50K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $86K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $80K | 90 |
| North Dakota | $77K | 100 |
| Minnesota | $76K | 520 |
| Nebraska | $65K | 220 |
| Maine | $64K | 70 |
| Iowa | $64K | 560 |
| New York | $63K | 1,390 |
| Idaho | $61K | 160 |
| Utah | $61K | 320 |
| New Hampshire | $61K | 100 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers make?▼
The median morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers salary in the United States is $49,800 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $31,470, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,940.
What education do you need to become a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers.
What are the highest paying states for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers?▼
The highest paying states for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers are Delaware ($80,290), North Dakota ($76,720), Minnesota ($76,490), Nebraska ($65,310), Maine ($63,790). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.