What Are the Rates for a Death Doula? (2025 Guide)

As more families seek compassionate, personalized support at the end of life, death doulas are becoming an increasingly recognized part of the care team. These non-medical professionals offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support during the dying process—but one of the most common questions remains: What are the rates for a death doula in 2025?

In this guide, we’ll break down the current national averages, what factors affect pricing, and how families can plan for these meaningful services.

Average Death Doula Rates in 2025

Based on recent data from doula networks, independent practitioners, and industry surveys, here’s what death doula services typically cost in 2025:

💵 Hourly Rate

• Range: $50 – $125/hour
• Average: ~$85/hour
  Many death doulas charge by the hour, especially for planning sessions, check-ins, or short visits. Rates may be higher in metro areas or for doulas with advanced training.

📦 Flat Packages

• Range: $500 – $3,500+
• Average: $1,500 – $2,000
  Package pricing is common and may include:
• Advance care planning
• Vigil sitting (day or overnight)
• Legacy or memory projects
• Grief support sessions
• Phone/email availability

These packages often span days or weeks, depending on the client’s needs and stage of life.

🎁 Sliding Scale or Donation-Based

Some doulas offer sliding-scale pricing to increase accessibility for low-income families, especially in underserved communities. Donation-based models are also found among doulas who view their work as community service or ministry.

What Factors Affect Death Doula Pricing?

A number of variables influence how much a death doula may charge:

Are Death Doulas Covered by Insurance?

In 2025, most death doula services are still not covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. However, some families may be able to use:

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Employer wellness benefits (e.g., Carrot Fertility, which supports doula care)
• Grants or nonprofit funding in select states or programs

A small but growing number of organizations and employers are recognizing the value of end-of-life doulas, which may lead to wider coverage in coming years.

Is Hiring a Death Doula Worth the Cost?

Many families report that working with a death doula helped reduce stress, foster peace, and bring meaning to the final chapter of life. The cost is often compared to hiring a wedding planner or postpartum doula—an investment in emotional well-being, personalized support, and a more dignified experience.

Doulas can also guide families through:

• Difficult decisions and conversations
• Preparing for death spiritually or emotionally
• Coordinating with hospice or legal teams
• Honoring cultural and religious traditions
• Ensuring the person’s wishes are respected

How to Find an Affordable Death Doula

• Start local: Search regional doula directories or hospice partners.
• Ask about payment plans or sliding scale options upfront.
• Consider newly certified doulas: Many offer reduced rates during training.
• Look for community-based organizations that may offer free or low-cost support.

💡 Want to become a certified death doula? DNT Network’s End-of-Life Doula Certification offers training for just $99, making it one of the most affordable and accessible programs available in 2025.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the rates for a death doula in 2025? On average, expect to pay around $85/hour or $1,500 for a package, with some doulas charging more based on experience and location. While insurance coverage is still limited, many doulas offer flexible pricing to meet a range of needs.

In the end, the presence of a compassionate guide during the dying process can be priceless—helping both the individual and their loved ones find peace, meaning, and dignity.