Cost of Cremation vs Burial: Price Comparison (2024)

In the difficult time following the loss of a loved one, making funeral arrangements can feel like a lot to navigate.

There are so many decisions to be made about the type of service, the cost of cremation vs burial, the people to invite, and how to plan for all of it.

Let us ease some of that confusion — this guide offers a clear comparison of cremation and burial costs, providing clarity as you make these important decisions and plan next steps.

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Cost of cremation vs burial: At a glance

Here's a quick comparison of cremation and burial costs according to National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) data:

• Funeral with a burial: The national median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial is $7,848.
• Cremation with a service: The national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,971.
• Direct cremation (no service): This costs between $2,000 and $5,000.
• A cremation with Meadow Memorials: $1495 for a complete cremation package, with the option of an additional $300 senior discount.

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The cost of each of these options can vary significantly based on what’s involved — whether it’s a customized casket, the urn you choose, and whether you have a memorial or service along with it.

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Explanation of basic costs

Let's dive deeper into the specific costs that contribute to cremation and burial expenses:

Cremation costs

• Service fees: These cover the funeral home's professional services, including paperwork and planning. Typically, they range from $1,000 to $2,500. These fees are often included in the funeral home’s direct cremation price.

• Cremation process: The actual cremation cost can vary widely, usually between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on location and provider.

• Urn: The container for the ashes can be as modest or as elaborate as you wish. Simple urns start around $30, but prices can climb to $500 or more for ornate designs.

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Burial costs

• Service fees: Similar to cremation, the funeral home's fees range from $1,500 to $3,000.

• Transportation: Moving the body to the funeral home and then to the burial site typically costs between $300 and $500.

• Casket: Prices vary significantly based on material and design, from $900 for basic models to $10,000 for high-end options.

• Burial plot and grave preparation: The cost for a plot can range from $1,000 to $4,000, with an additional $1,000 to $2,500 for digging and preparing the grave.

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This table summarizes the costs for a clear comparison:

Cremation costs explained

Cremation offers a range of options, from the most straightforward to those that include traditional memorial services and ceremonies.

Let's explore these options and the associated costs, including any additional expenses you might encounter.

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Direct cremation

Direct cremation is the most economical choice. It involves the cremation of the body without a preceding funeral service.

Costs generally include the cremation process, a basic urn, and necessary paperwork, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. The price variation largely depends on the provider and geographic location.

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Cremation with a memorial service

This option includes a memorial service after the cremation has taken place.

The costs for cremation remain similar to direct cremation, but additional expenses include venue rental, service planning, and potentially catering.

Including these services, the total can range from $3,000 to $7,000.

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Full-service cremation with viewing

A full-service cremation includes a viewing or visitation before the cremation, closely resembling a traditional burial service in structure.

This option can include rental of a cremation casket for the viewing, which can cost between $500 and $2,500. The total cost for a full-service cremation can range from $4,000 to $7,000, depending on the level of service and the choice of venue.

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Additional costs

• Urns: While a basic urn may be included in your package, many families choose to purchase a more personalized urn, with prices ranging from $35 to $1,000 or more.

• Rental caskets: For services with a viewing, a rental casket is often required. These are specially designed to be more combustible and can vary significantly in price.

• Optional services: Services like scattering ashes in a meaningful location or creating keepsakes such as jewelry can add to the cost. Each of these services can range from a modest expense to several hundred dollars.

The cost of cremation can vary depending on your location and the funeral home you choose. Generally, cremation costs tend to be lower in rural areas compared to urban centers.

Funeral homes can also have different pricing structures, so it's important to compare quotes from several providers in your area.

Be sure to ask detailed questions about what's included in their packages and about any additional fees that may apply.

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Burial costs explained

Traditional burial involves several key cost components. Here's a breakdown of the major expenses you can expect:

Burial plot

The burial plot is a significant part of the cost. Depending on the cemetery's location and prestige, a plot can range from $1,000 in a rural area to $4,000 or more in a metropolitan cemetery. Exclusive or private cemeteries might charge even higher rates.

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Casket

A significant expense in a traditional burial is the casket. Caskets come in a variety of materials (wood, metal, composite) and with various features, impacting the price. Costs can range dramatically, from $2,500 for a basic option to $10,000 or more for elaborate caskets.

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Headstone

Headstones are not mandatory, but many families choose to purchase them to mark the gravesite. Prices depend on the material, size, and customization level, ranging from $500 for simple flat markers to $5,000 or more for fancier monuments.

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Burial vault

Many cemeteries require a burial vault or grave liner to prevent the ground from caving in over time. These can cost between $700 and $3,000, depending on the material and design.

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Viewing and funeral service

• Viewing and embalming: If you opt for a viewing, embalming may be necessary, costing between $500 and $700. The viewing itself might require additional facility fees.

• Funeral service: Costs include the rental of a chapel or other venue, fees for the officiant, and expenses related to transportation and staff, which can add up to $2,000 to $4,000.

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Cremation vs burial cost: Don’t overlook these!

While cremation and burial offer distinct cost structures, both options have hidden expenses that can add up quickly. 

Here's a breakdown of some often-overlooked fees to factor into your planning:

For both cremation and burial

• Obituary fees: Placing an obituary in a local newspaper or online publication can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size, placement, and publication chosen.

• Clergy or officiant fees: If you choose to have a religious ceremony or hire a celebrant to officiate a non-denominational service, there will be associated fees. These can vary depending on the officiant's experience and denomination.

• Facility use fees: Even with a cremation, some funeral homes may charge additional fees for use of their facilities if you choose to hold a memorial service or viewing.

• Death certificates: Obtaining multiple certified copies of the death certificate is often required for various purposes (e.g. Social Security benefits, closing accounts). These typically cost around $23 to $50 each, depending on the county.

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Additional hidden costs for cremation

• Transportation: While some funeral homes include basic transportation of the deceased within their cremation service fees, longer distances and specific pick-up locations can incur additional charges.

• Body weight: In some cases, cremation costs may be slightly higher for individuals who weigh over a certain amount. Funeral homes can typically provide more information on any potential surcharges.

• Scattering or placement of ashes: Some cemeteries may charge fees for scattering ashes on their grounds or placing them in a columbarium niche.

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Additional hidden costs for burial

• Embalming (optional): While not required for cremation, embalming is often recommended for burials with a viewing.

• Graveside tents or chairs: Depending on the weather and location of the gravesite, you may need to rent tents or chairs for guests attending the burial service.

• Cemetery maintenance fees: Some cemeteries have annual maintenance fees associated with perpetual care of the gravesite.

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Remember: It's always best to ask detailed questions about all associated fees when discussing service options with a funeral home or cemetery representative.

By being aware of these hidden costs, you can create a more accurate budget for final arrangements.

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Cost of funeral vs cremation: Budgeting tips

Funeral arrangements can be a significant financial burden. Here are some practical tips to help you plan a dignified and meaningful service while remaining mindful of your budget:

• ‍Considering cremation or burial: Cremation is generally a more affordable option than traditional burial. Carefully consider your loved one's wishes and traditions when making this decision.‍
• Venue selection: Consider holding a memorial service at a place of worship, a community center, or even a favorite park instead of a funeral home chapel. These venues may have lower rental fees or may even be free to use.‍
• DIY elements: Personalize the service by creating your own memorial programs, slideshows, or readings instead of outsourcing these tasks to the funeral home.‍
• Managing guest numbers: While you may want everyone to commemorate your loved one's life, having a smaller, more intimate gathering can keep costs associated with food, beverages, and venue space under control.
  
  Consider live streaming the service for those who can't attend in person. This allows them to participate remotely without incurring additional reception costs.

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Comparing costs and discounts

Don't hesitate to get quotes from several funeral homes in your area. Funeral homes typically offer a la carte services, so you can choose the specific elements you need and avoid unnecessary package costs.

Many funeral homes offer veteran or senior citizen discounts. Be sure to inquire about any potential discounts that may apply.

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Next steps

We hope this guide helps you navigate the process of choosing a fitting tribute for your loved one — factoring in the cost of cremation vs burial and the logistics involved in planning it out. 

Meadow’s comprehensive cremation package includes everything you need: Experienced care, a respectful cremation, a beautiful urn, nationwide delivery, and a senior discount.

We understand the weight of this moment. We offer a more compassionate and meaningful way to celebrate a life well-lived with customized memorial planning services.

Our team of caring memorial planners partner with you in this tender time to create an occasion as remarkable as the life it honors.

With our licensed team, you can expect:

• A weight off your shoulders: Our memorial planners will take care of every detail, and they’ll be in the background at your memorial, making sure everything runs smoothly.
  
  
• The perfect location: Our planners help you find the perfect location, whether that’s an idyllic beachfront, your loved one’s favorite restaurant or the comfort of your own home.
  
  
• Transparent pricing: Starting from $1,495, our prices are transparent and easy to understand.
  
  
• The personal touch: Our memorial planners will make sure your loved one’s presence is felt throughout the occasion.

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Explore our Personalized Memorial Services.