How Much Money Do Morticians Make In The USA?

The salary of morticians in the USA typically ranges from $30,660 to $91,870 annually, but this can vary based on location, experience, and the type of employer; money-central.com offers insights into career finances. This guide provides a detailed overview of mortician salaries, job duties, and factors influencing earnings, offering valuable information for those considering this profession or seeking financial guidance. By exploring these aspects, you can gain a better understanding of the financial landscape of this profession and plan accordingly.

1. What Is The Average Mortician Salary in the USA?

The average annual salary for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in the United States was $58,020 as of May 2023. This figure, provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), represents the mean wage across the country. However, salaries can vary significantly based on several factors.

Hourly Wage

On average, morticians in the U.S. earn approximately $27.90 per hour. This hourly rate can fluctuate depending on the location, experience level, and the specific employer.

Salary Range

The salary range for morticians varies widely. According to the BLS data, the percentile wage estimates are as follows:

10th Percentile: $30,660 per year
25th Percentile: $39,320 per year
50th Percentile (Median): $51,030 per year
75th Percentile: $71,300 per year
90th Percentile: $91,870 per year

This range indicates that while some morticians earn around $30,660 annually, the most experienced and highly compensated can earn upwards of $91,870 per year. These figures highlight the diverse income opportunities within this career path.

2. What Factors Influence a Mortician’s Salary?

Several factors can influence how much morticians earn. Understanding these can help those in the profession, or those considering it, to strategize for better financial outcomes.

Location

Geographic location plays a significant role in determining a mortician’s salary. States with higher costs of living or greater demand for funeral services typically offer higher wages.

Top Paying States: According to the BLS, the top-paying states for morticians include:
- Rhode Island: $84,120 per year
- Minnesota: $83,990 per year
- North Dakota: $77,810 per year
- Delaware: $75,530 per year
- Connecticut: $73,690 per year
Metropolitan Areas: Similarly, metropolitan areas with higher costs of living and demand for services often provide better compensation. Examples include:
- Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI: $85,270 per year
- Fargo, ND-MN: $79,620 per year
- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT: $77,570 per year
- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI: $74,990 per year
- Rochester, NY: $74,410 per year

Experience and Education

Experience and education levels significantly impact earning potential. Morticians with advanced degrees or specialized certifications often command higher salaries.

Entry-Level Positions: Those just starting in the field may begin at the lower end of the salary range, gaining experience and skills over time.
Experienced Professionals: Morticians with many years of experience and a strong track record can negotiate higher salaries.
Education and Certifications: Additional education, such as a degree in mortuary science, and professional certifications can lead to increased pay.

Industry and Employer

The type of employer and the industry in which a mortician works also affect their salary.

Death Care Services: Most morticians are employed in death care services, where the average annual salary is around $57,800.
Government Jobs: Morticians working for federal, state, or local governments may earn higher salaries, averaging around $88,390 annually.
Colleges and Universities: A small number of morticians are employed by colleges and universities, earning an average of $78,790 per year.

Job Responsibilities and Specialization

The specific job responsibilities and any specialization within the field can influence salary levels.

Funeral Arrangers: Those primarily involved in arranging funeral details and coordinating with families may have different salary expectations compared to those focused on embalming and other technical aspects.
Specialized Roles: Morticians with expertise in specific areas, such as forensic mortuary services or restorative art, may command higher pay due to their specialized skills.

3. How Does Location Affect Mortician Salaries?

Location is a critical determinant of a mortician’s earning potential. Different states and metropolitan areas offer varying salary levels based on the cost of living, demand for services, and other economic factors.

States with High Employment Levels

States with the highest employment levels for morticians do not always correlate with the highest salaries. However, they indicate where the profession is most prevalent.

California: Offers an average annual wage of $52,550.
Ohio: Provides an average annual wage of $62,900.
Texas: Has a lower average annual wage of $33,040.
New York: Pays an average annual wage of $72,970.
North Carolina: Offers an average annual wage of $54,920.

States with High Concentration of Jobs

The concentration of mortician jobs in a state, measured by the location quotient, can also affect salaries. States with a high concentration may offer competitive wages to attract and retain professionals.

Iowa: Has a high location quotient and an average annual wage of $64,750.
Arkansas: Offers a lower average annual wage of $44,540.
Ohio: Combines a high employment level with a high location quotient and an average annual wage of $62,900.
North Dakota: Offers a high average annual wage of $77,810.
Kentucky: Provides an average annual wage of $45,700.

Metropolitan Areas with High Employment Levels

Metropolitan areas with high employment levels often reflect larger populations and greater demand for mortuary services.

New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA: Offers an average annual wage of $74,360.
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA: Provides an average annual wage of $52,380.
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI: Has an average annual wage of $74,990.
Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH: Offers an average annual wage of $72,300.
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX: Provides a lower average annual wage of $34,840.

Metropolitan Areas with High Job Concentration

Metropolitan areas with a high concentration of mortician jobs (high location quotients) often indicate specialized markets or regional hubs for the profession.

Springfield, OH: Has a high location quotient and an average annual wage of $58,740.
Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA: Offers an average annual wage of $61,300.
Duluth, MN-WI: Provides an average annual wage of $74,080.
Florence, SC: Has an average annual wage of $52,900.
Yakima, WA: Offers an average annual wage of $57,660.

4. What Are the Job Duties of a Mortician?

Morticians, also known as undertakers or funeral directors, handle a variety of tasks related to funeral services. Their duties extend from the initial arrangements with the family to the final disposition of the deceased.

Arranging Funeral Details

Morticians meet with the family of the deceased to discuss and arrange funeral details. This involves:

Consultation: Meeting with family members to understand their wishes and preferences.
Service Selection: Helping the family choose between different types of funeral services, such as traditional funerals, memorial services, or cremation services.
Logistics Planning: Coordinating all logistical aspects of the funeral, including the date, time, and location of the service.

Preparing the Body

Preparing the body for viewing is a crucial aspect of a mortician’s job. This involves:

Embalming: Preserving the body using embalming techniques.
Cosmetics: Applying cosmetics to restore a natural appearance.
Dressing and Casketing: Dressing the deceased and placing them in a casket.

Coordinating Transportation

Morticians coordinate the transportation of the body, which includes:

Transferring the Deceased: Arranging for the transportation of the body from the place of death to the funeral home.
Obtaining Permits: Ensuring all necessary permits and documentation are obtained for transportation.
Arranging Pallbearers: Selecting and coordinating pallbearers to carry the casket.

Managing Funeral Services

Managing the funeral service involves:

Overseeing the Service: Ensuring the funeral service runs smoothly and according to the family’s wishes.
Providing Support: Offering emotional support to the family and attendees.
Coordinating Religious Rites: Assisting with the selection of officials for religious rites and ensuring these rites are performed appropriately.

Handling Paperwork

Morticians handle various administrative tasks, including:

Death Certificates: Filing death certificates and other legal documents.
Obituaries: Writing and submitting obituaries to newspapers or online platforms.
Insurance Claims: Assisting families with filing insurance claims related to funeral expenses.

Facility Management

Some morticians are also responsible for managing the funeral home, which includes:

Maintaining the Facility: Ensuring the funeral home is clean and well-maintained.
Supervising Staff: Managing and supervising other staff members, such as funeral attendants and embalmers.
Managing Inventory: Overseeing the inventory of caskets, urns, and other funeral-related products.

5. What Skills and Qualifications Are Needed to Become a Mortician?

Becoming a mortician requires a combination of education, technical skills, and personal qualities. Here are the key requirements:

Education

A degree in mortuary science is typically required to become a licensed mortician. These programs cover a range of topics, including:

Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body.
Embalming Techniques: Learning the methods and procedures for preserving bodies.
Funeral Service Management: Studying the principles of managing a funeral home and coordinating funeral services.
Grief Counseling: Developing skills to provide emotional support to grieving families.
According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, in July 2025, a strong educational background significantly enhances career prospects in the mortuary science field.

Licensing

All states require morticians to be licensed. The licensing process typically involves:

Examination: Passing a state-administered examination that tests knowledge of mortuary science and funeral service practices.
Apprenticeship: Completing an apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed mortician.
Continuing Education: Participating in continuing education courses to stay updated on the latest techniques and regulations.

Technical Skills

Morticians need a range of technical skills to perform their job duties effectively, including:

Embalming: Proficiently performing embalming procedures to preserve bodies.
Restorative Art: Using cosmetic and reconstructive techniques to restore a natural appearance to the deceased.
Operating Equipment: Operating and maintaining equipment used in the embalming process and funeral services.

Interpersonal Skills

Strong interpersonal skills are essential for morticians, as they work closely with grieving families and need to provide emotional support. Key skills include:

Empathy: Showing compassion and understanding towards grieving families.
Communication: Communicating clearly and sensitively with families to understand their wishes and provide information.
Problem-Solving: Addressing any issues or concerns that arise during the funeral arrangement process.
Organizational Skills: Managing multiple tasks and coordinating various aspects of funeral services.

Personal Qualities

Certain personal qualities are important for success in this profession, including:

Attention to Detail: Ensuring all aspects of the funeral service are handled meticulously.
Professionalism: Maintaining a high level of professionalism in all interactions.
Emotional Stability: Handling the emotional demands of the job while maintaining composure.
Respect: Treating the deceased and their families with the utmost respect and dignity.

6. What Is the Job Outlook for Morticians?

The job outlook for morticians is projected to be stable in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Expected Growth

The demand for mortuary services is generally stable, as the death rate remains relatively constant. Factors contributing to the steady demand include:

Aging Population: As the population ages, the number of deaths is expected to increase, driving demand for funeral services.
Cultural Practices: Funeral services are a deeply ingrained cultural practice, ensuring a continued need for morticians and funeral arrangers.

Job Prospects

Job prospects in the field are expected to be good, particularly for those with the necessary education, skills, and licenses.

Competition: While the field is relatively small, there is still competition for jobs. Those with advanced degrees and strong interpersonal skills will have the best opportunities.
Geographic Demand: Demand for morticians may vary by location, with some areas experiencing greater need due to population growth or other factors.

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements may also influence the job outlook for morticians. While technology is unlikely to replace the core duties of the profession, it may streamline certain tasks and improve efficiency.

Online Arrangements: Online platforms for arranging funeral services may become more common, requiring morticians to adapt to new ways of interacting with families.
Digital Records: The use of digital records and management systems may increase, requiring morticians to be proficient in using technology.

7. How Can Morticians Increase Their Salary?

Morticians can take several steps to increase their earning potential. These strategies involve gaining additional education, developing specialized skills, and seeking opportunities in higher-paying locations or industries.

Pursue Advanced Education

Earning an advanced degree or certification can significantly boost a mortician’s salary.

Master’s Degree: A Master’s degree in Mortuary Science or a related field can open doors to higher-paying positions in management or academia.
Specialized Certifications: Certifications in areas such as embalming, restorative art, or grief counseling can demonstrate expertise and increase marketability.

Gain Experience

Experience is a valuable asset in any profession, and mortuary science is no exception.

Years of Service: Morticians with many years of experience are typically compensated more highly than those just starting out.
Track Record: A strong track record of providing excellent service and positive outcomes can lead to increased pay and career advancement.

Relocate to Higher-Paying Areas

As noted earlier, geographic location plays a significant role in determining a mortician’s salary.

High-Paying States: Consider relocating to states with higher average salaries for morticians, such as Rhode Island, Minnesota, or North Dakota.
Metropolitan Areas: Seek opportunities in metropolitan areas with high wages and a strong demand for mortuary services, such as Minneapolis-St. Paul or Chicago.

Specialize in a Niche

Developing expertise in a specific area of mortuary science can set a mortician apart and command higher pay.

Forensic Mortuary Services: Specializing in forensic mortuary services can lead to opportunities in law enforcement or medical examiner offices.
Restorative Art: Becoming skilled in restorative art can enhance a mortician’s ability to prepare bodies for viewing and increase their value to funeral homes.
Green Funerals: With the growing interest in eco-friendly practices, specializing in green funeral services can attract a niche clientele and increase earnings.

Seek Management Roles

Morticians who take on management roles within a funeral home or mortuary can earn higher salaries.

Funeral Home Manager: Managing a funeral home involves overseeing all aspects of the business, from coordinating services to managing staff.
Supervisory Positions: Taking on supervisory roles within a larger organization can lead to increased pay and career advancement.

Negotiate Salary and Benefits

When accepting a job offer or seeking a raise, it’s important to negotiate salary and benefits effectively.

Research Salary Data: Use salary data from sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and money-central.com to understand the average salary for morticians in your location and with your level of experience.
Highlight Skills and Experience: Emphasize your skills, experience, and certifications when negotiating salary.
Consider Benefits: Factor in the value of benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off when evaluating a job offer.

Network and Build Relationships

Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to new opportunities and career advancement.

Industry Associations: Join professional associations such as the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) to connect with peers and stay informed about industry trends.
Conferences and Seminars: Attend conferences and seminars to learn new skills and network with other professionals.

8. Mortician Salary vs. Other Professions

Comparing the salary of a mortician to other professions can provide context and help individuals make informed career decisions. Here’s a comparison with related and unrelated occupations:

Related Professions

Funeral Home Manager: Funeral home managers earn a higher average salary than morticians, typically ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 per year. This reflects the additional responsibilities of managing a business and overseeing staff.
Embalmer: Embalmers, who specialize in preserving bodies, earn a salary similar to that of morticians, with an average annual wage of around $55,000 to $65,000.
Medical Examiner: Medical examiners, who investigate deaths and perform autopsies, earn a significantly higher salary, often exceeding $100,000 per year. This reflects the advanced education and specialized training required for this role.

Unrelated Professions

Registered Nurse: Registered nurses earn an average annual salary of around $77,600, which is higher than the average salary for morticians. Nursing requires a different skill set and involves direct patient care.
Accountant: Accountants earn an average annual salary of around $73,500, which is also higher than the average salary for morticians. Accounting involves managing financial records and providing financial advice.
Teacher: Teachers earn a salary that varies widely based on education level and location, but the average annual salary for teachers is around $65,000, which is comparable to the salary of morticians in some areas.

Factors to Consider

When comparing salaries across professions, it’s important to consider factors such as:

Education Requirements: Professions requiring more advanced education and specialized training often command higher salaries.
Job Responsibilities: Jobs with greater responsibilities and higher levels of stress may be compensated more highly.
Demand and Supply: Professions with high demand and limited supply of qualified workers tend to offer higher salaries.
Work-Life Balance: Some professions offer better work-life balance than others, which can be an important factor when making career decisions.

9. What Are the Benefits of Being a Mortician?

While the job of a mortician can be emotionally challenging, it also offers several benefits and rewards.

Job Security

The demand for mortuary services is generally stable, providing job security for those in the profession.

Consistent Demand: As the death rate remains relatively constant, there will always be a need for morticians and funeral arrangers.
Recession-Resistant: The funeral industry is relatively recession-resistant, as people continue to need funeral services regardless of economic conditions.

Meaningful Work

Morticians play an important role in helping families through a difficult time.

Providing Comfort: Morticians provide comfort and support to grieving families, helping them to navigate the funeral arrangement process.
Honoring the Deceased: Morticians ensure that the deceased are treated with dignity and respect, and that their lives are honored in a meaningful way.
Facilitating Closure: By providing a professional and compassionate service, morticians help families to find closure and begin the healing process.

Variety of Tasks

The job of a mortician involves a variety of tasks, from arranging funeral details to preparing the body for viewing.

Diverse Responsibilities: Morticians handle a range of responsibilities, which can make the job interesting and engaging.
Opportunity for Creativity: Morticians have the opportunity to use their creativity in areas such as restorative art and designing personalized funeral services.

Community Involvement

Morticians often become active members of their communities.

Local Connections: Morticians develop strong connections with local families and organizations.
Supporting Community Events: Funeral homes often support community events and initiatives, providing opportunities for morticians to give back.

Potential for Advancement

Morticians have opportunities for career advancement within the field.

Management Roles: Morticians can advance to management positions within a funeral home or mortuary.
Business Ownership: Some morticians choose to open their own funeral homes, becoming entrepreneurs and business owners.

10. FAQs About Mortician Salaries

Here are some frequently asked questions about mortician salaries to provide further clarity:

What is the starting salary for a mortician?

The starting salary for a mortician typically ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on location and experience.

Do morticians get paid well?

While the average salary for morticians is around $58,020 per year, those with experience, advanced education, and specialized skills can earn significantly more.

What is the highest salary a mortician can make?

The highest salary a mortician can make is typically around $90,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and the type of employer.

Is being a mortician a stressful job?

Yes, being a mortician can be stressful due to the emotional demands of working with grieving families and the responsibility of handling sensitive tasks.

What are the working hours like for morticians?

Morticians often work long and irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as funeral services need to be arranged at the convenience of the families.

How much does a funeral director make annually?

Funeral directors, who manage funeral homes and oversee services, typically earn an average annual salary of $50,000 to $80,000, depending on location and experience.

What is the job outlook for morticians?

The job outlook for morticians is projected to be stable, with employment expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations.

What skills are important for a mortician?

Important skills for a mortician include empathy, communication, attention to detail, and technical proficiency in embalming and restorative art.

What education is required to become a mortician?

A degree in mortuary science is typically required to become a licensed mortician, along with passing a state-administered examination and completing an apprenticeship.

Where can I find mortician salary data?

You can find mortician salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional associations like the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), and financial websites such as money-central.com.

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