Today, the cremation rate in the United States is 60%, and it's expected to rise to 80% by 2045. One of the leading reasons for this increase is cost. Cremation often presents a more affordable alternative to traditional burial.
On average, cremation costs range from around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on various factors. Having an understanding of these costs can help you make informed decisions during a difficult time. In this blog post, we'll break down the different factors that determine the final cost of cremation.
Types of Cremation Services
First of all, it's important to mention that the cost of cremation varies widely depending on the type of service chosen. For example, cremation with a traditional funeral service is the most expensive option, ranging from $4,000 to $6,000. This includes a full funeral service with the body present, embalming, and casket rental for the viewing.
A less expensive option is cremation with a simple memorial service, which costs about $2,000 to $3,000. In this case, a memorial gathering is held without the body, eliminating the need for embalming and casket rental.
Direct cremation is the least expensive option, costing around $1,100. This involves no funeral or memorial service; the body is cremated shortly after death, and the ashes are returned in a basic container.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the primary service costs, several additional expenses can affect the total cremation services cost. These can include final arrangement fees, which cover the planning and coordination of the cremation.
If a cremation casket is required for the process, this can also add to the cost. For those who opt for a viewing before the cremation, embalming and body preparation are necessary, increasing the overall expense.
Casket rental for viewings or services is another potential cost. Flower arrangements for the service can also add up, depending on the size and type of arrangements chosen. While ashes are typically returned in a basic container, purchasing a more elaborate urn can increase expenses.
If you plan to bury the urn, interment costs, including purchasing a marker, will apply. These additional costs can significantly impact the overall price of cremation services, so it's important to consider them when planning.
Cremation vs Burial Costs
Comparing cremation and burial costs can provide a clearer picture of potential expenses. Today, the average cost of a traditional funeral with burial is around $8,300, with some reaching $10,000 or more.
Burial costs typically include funeral home service fees, body transportation, embalming, staff fees, printing memorial booklets, casket, flowers, officiant fees, hearse rental, and burial fees such as headstones or grave markers.
Understanding the Cost of Cremation
To sum up, the cost of cremation can be a more cost-effective option compared to traditional burial, but it still involves various expenses. Understanding the different types of cremation services and the associated costs can help you plan a funeral that respects your loved one's wishes while staying within your budget.
If you would like to learn more about affordable cremation options, we encourage you to speak to us at Schumacher & Benner Funeral Home & Crematory. We are here to help families during this difficult time and ensure that their loved one is afforded a respectful and dignified farewell.