The study, titled “Taboos and Changing Customs Around Death,” was commissioned by the National Funeral Society and Guild (OTEI).

It found that although death touches every family sooner or later, many Hungarians still avoid discussing it. This reluctance makes it harder to prepare for funerals, plan in advance, or explore newer options for farewells and burials.

According to the research, around one in five adults (21%) live in families where death is never discussed, and 8% regard it as an explicit taboo. Only a small minority — about 5% — talk about it regularly, while roughly half of respondents said they would not feel uncomfortable if the subject came up.

Generational differences are striking: 42% of people aged 18–29 avoid the topic altogether, compared with just 33% of those over 70. Education level also matters — those with higher education tend to speak about death more openly.

Visiting cemeteries remains a widespread custom across Hungary. More than half (56%) of respondents visit a few times a year, typically around All Saints’ Day, while nearly a third (31%) tend graves regularly.

In contrast, 12% never visit cemeteries, a figure that rises to 22% among Budapest residents.

Most Hungarians (93%) say the condition of cemeteries is important or very important, showing how strongly these traditions remain rooted.

When it comes to financial planning, just over half of respondents (53%) had heard about the option of funeral pre-savings, yet only 5% actually have such an arrangement.

Among people aged 60–69 this rises to 9%, and to 12% for those over 70. Almost 70% of respondents have no savings set aside for funeral expenses.

Funerals themselves still matter deeply to most people: 63% consider it important that loved ones are farewelled through a ceremony. Women and residents of eastern Hungary are especially likely to insist on holding one.

Traditional ceremonies remain particularly valued by the older generation and the middle class, while younger people tend to be more open to alternative forms of farewell.

For 80% of respondents, the most important consideration is that the deceased be buried according to their own wishes.

Many also value ceremonies that focus on the life of the deceased (77%) and emphasize smooth organization and practical arrangements. Church services, however, have become less central — only 34% said they still consider them important.

Views on cremation and ashes are more divided. About 31% support the idea of keeping ashes at home, while 42% reject it outright.

Scattering ashes in nature is acceptable to 37%, though a quarter of respondents find it “completely alien.”

Younger generations are notably more open to such options, while older people tend to prefer traditional burial practices.

Overall, the survey suggests that while Hungarian attitudes toward death and burial are slowly evolving, silence and taboo continue to shape how the topic is approached.

The funeral industry hopes that encouraging open discussion could not only challenge long-held taboos but also help those coping with loss.

The nationally representative survey was conducted online in April and May 2024, with responses from 1,000 Hungarian adults.

*********************************************************************************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters

Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal we’re grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.