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Funeral parlours in Johannesburg: how to choose and what it costs
By Lindiwe Khumalo · 6 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
Funeral parlours in Johannesburg range from large national groups such as AVBOB, Doves, Icebolethu and Two Mountains to many small local undertakers in areas like Soweto and Roodepoort, with a basic burial costing indicatively from about R5,000 to R12,000 and a full service R15,000 to R30,000 or more - always get a written, itemised quote. This guide helps you pick a parlour, understand likely costs and avoid common pitfalls - without naming specific businesses we cannot verify.
Johannesburg has a large number of funeral parlours, from big national groups to small local ones in areas like Soweto, Roodepoort and the inner city. The right choice depends on your budget, where the burial will be, and what you want included.
How to choose a parlour in Johannesburg
- Shortlist two or three parlours and get a written quote from each.
- Confirm they can collect the deceased and conduct the funeral where you need it, including burials outside the city.
- Check that any funeral cover they sell is underwritten by a licensed insurer.
- Ask to see the coffin range and what is included versus extra.
- Read reviews and ask family or community for names they have actually used.
Indicative costs in Johannesburg
These are indicative ranges only - always get a written quote.
| Service level | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Basic burial (simple coffin, transport, minimal service) | from around R5,000 to R12,000 |
| Mid-range full service | around R15,000 to R30,000 |
| Larger full service (premium coffin, catering, extras) | R30,000 and up |
City parlours can cost more than small-town ones. Catering, tents, programmes and grocery support add up quickly, so price them separately.
Questions to ask
- What exactly is in the package, and what is extra?
- Can you bury or cremate where I need, and what does transport cost?
- Is your funeral cover underwritten, and by which insurer?
- What is the waiting period and what is excluded?
- Can I have the full quote in writing before I commit?
Your consumer rights
You have the right to a clear, itemised quote and to refuse extras you do not want. Funeral cover must be underwritten by a registered insurer. If you have a complaint about a funeral policy or a claim, the National Financial Ombud handles funeral-cover disputes in South Africa. You are not obliged to use a parlour's in-house cover to use its funeral service.
Well-known funeral brands operating in the area
Johannesburg is served by branches of most large national funeral brands, including AVBOB, Doves, Two Mountains, Icebolethu and Martin's Funerals, alongside Royal Funeral and many smaller, well-regarded local parlours.
Use these only as starting points. Do not assume a brand has a branch exactly where you need it, or that its price suits you. Search the brand's official website or call its national line to confirm the nearest branch, what each package includes, the waiting period and the current price. We do not publish branch addresses or phone numbers because they change by area and we cannot verify them. Compare at least two or three options, including a trusted local parlour, before you commit.
Low-cost and government assistance options
If money is tight, ask about a basic or pauper's burial. Municipalities in Gauteng can assist with indigent (pauper) burials for residents who cannot afford one - contact the City of Johannesburg or your local municipality. SASSA may pay a small funeral-related amount in some cases. Burial societies and stokvels are also widely used in Johannesburg to spread the cost across a group.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a funeral cost in Johannesburg?
Indicatively, a basic burial can start from around R5,000 to R12,000, a mid-range full service from R15,000 to R30,000, and larger services R30,000 and up. Always get a written quote, as city parlours vary widely.
How do I find a good funeral parlour near me in Johannesburg?
Shortlist two or three, get written quotes, confirm they can bury where you need, check any cover is underwritten, and ask family or community for names they have actually used.
Can the City of Johannesburg help with a funeral?
Municipalities can assist with indigent (pauper) burials for residents who cannot afford one. Contact the City of Johannesburg or your local municipality to ask about the process and who qualifies.
Do I have to use the parlour's own funeral cover?
No. You can use a parlour's funeral service without taking its in-house cover. Funeral cover must be underwritten by a registered insurer.
Who do I complain to about a funeral policy in Johannesburg?
The National Financial Ombud handles funeral-cover and claim disputes in South Africa. Keep your policy document and any quotes to support your complaint.
Are funeral parlours in Soweto cheaper than central Johannesburg?
Often smaller local parlours, including many in Soweto, can be more affordable than large central ones, but it varies. Compare written quotes rather than assuming.
