Cost of Cremation
It seems that burials are becoming less popular as more and more people turn to cremation. However, just like funeral costs, cremation costs can also vary, and as more choose cremation, the more costs will increase.
Cost
The average cremation can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $7,000. A low-cost cremation, also known as direct cremation, can cost between $2,000 and $5,000. However, some cremations can be as low as a few hundred dollars.
Direct cremation is when you only request the cremation and do not require a memorial or funeral; the ashes are then given directly to the family. A direct cremation is the most affordable arrangement.
You have the following rights when planning your direct cremation:
- You do not have to buy a casket from the funeral home (cremation caskets can cost anywhere between $100 and $600)
- You do not have to buy an urn from the funeral home (urns can cost as low as $50 but reach $1,000 depending on its style and material)
- The funeral home/crematory are expected to make alternative containers available
If you choose to be cremated as well as have a funeral, costs can range from $6,000 to $8,000, but it all depends on the state you live in, the funeral home, and what other extras you include, such as flowers.