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The cost of everything is going up these days, but none compares to the cost of dying.

A casket, for example, will typically set you back anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on your preference.

If you want to go out in style, expect a bigger price tag to come with it.

The average traditional funeral runs about $5,500 and then all the additional services are priced separately.

"The casket, plus the other cash advance items like flowers, concrete liners or vaults that cemeteries require, police escorts and obituaries that you run in the newspaper," said Sonia Galvan with Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen.

Other services include tent and equipment set up, digging the hole and closing the hole and the certified death certificate.

The list goes on and the tally goes up.

Cremation is much less expensive.

The average cost of cremation is $1,200.

Galvan said she has seen about a 15 percent increase in cremations over the last ten years, especially among baby boomers.

"It is a lot more economical," she said. "A lot of different denominations are accepting cremations now, so a lot of families feel more comfortable."

A popular option is a cremation with a viewing.

"They actually get to view their loved one and also cremate them either a day or two later," Galvan said.

The best advice Galvan offered is start planning now.

"No one wants to think about dying, but I think that people really should consider pre-paid funeral or cremation," she said.

Many funeral homes and cemeteries allow you to pay up front and lock in the price so the expenses are limited when the end comes.

You can pay the balance off in one lump sum, or pay it off over three, five or 10 years.

Pre-paid arrangements relieve the burden on the loved ones you leave behind.

"You are already going through so much emotionally that having to go in and select is really difficult for a lot of families," Galvan said.

If you can't afford these services, counties are required by law to have an indigent health care program, commonly called "pauper burials."

Those who qualify can get $1,000 covered on burial or cremation costs for adults or $300 for a baby's burial or cremation.

You are eligible if you meet a list of requirements, like you don't qualify for any other state or federal help, like Medicare or Medicaid and your total assets are less than $3,000.

"We do believe that every family deserves a dignified funeral, so it doesn't matter what background you come from," added Galvan.

According to the National Vital Statistics Department, 34% of deaths in the United States were cremated in 2006.

Based on current trends, that number could grow to 40% by 2010 and 60% by 2025.

The recession is not only forcing people to cut back on their living expenses, but their dying expenses, too.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q - How do I know how much each services cost at funeral homes?
A - Each funeral home is required to give you an itemized list of all possible prices.

Q - Can I buy provide my own casket for the funeral home to use?
A - Yes, federal law requires funeral homes to accept third-party caskets.

Q - Can I set up a payment plan to pre-pay for my funeral?
A - Yes, many funeral homes offer pre-paid plans to relieve the burden on the loved ones you leave behind.

Q - What if I can't afford to pay for a funeral?
A - Counties are required by law to provide an Indigent Health Care Program.