Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy. And yet, amidst the grieving, you have so much to figure out. How much does a burial cost in California? How do you organize a funeral? Is there financial support available?
A little research will reveal this unfortunate truth: Funeral costs can be an unexpected financial strain, especially in California, where a simple burial costs about $7,000 on average.
This blog post aims to break the silence surrounding burial costs in California. We'll provide a transparent look at what you can expect to pay for each part of a burial, explore the alternatives, and connect you with resources for financial assistance if needed.
Our goal is to help you create a meaningful tribute that honors your loved one's memory, all while staying mindful of your budget.
What does a burial cost in California?
A simple burial that doesn’t involve premium caskets or elaborate headstones can start at around $7,000. A more elaborate burial can cost you $20,000 or more.
These estimates can vary widely based on personal choices, specific service providers, and the exact location within California.
Here's a structured overview with estimated cost ranges to help guide your understanding:
- Funeral home services: This fee averages around $2,200. It covers the essential services that funeral homes provide, like obtaining death certificates, and permits, storing remains, and coordinating arrangements.
- Embalming and body preparation: Embalming costs can vary, with an average of around $750. Embalming is optional in the state of California but can be a good idea if hosting a viewing.
- Floral arrangements: A floral display could range between $500-$700, with options to accept flowers from guests as a way to honor your loved one.
- Grave plot: The cost of a burial plot can range significantly from $350 to over $5,000, largely depending on the cemetery's location and whether it's a public or private establishment.
- Opening and closing of the grave: This service involves digging and closing up the grave, and can add around $1,000 to $3,000 to the overall cost.
- Headstones and markers: Costs can vary widely from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the design and choice of materials. Flat grave markers are a more budget-friendly option.
- Caskets: Caskets range from $2,000 to $10,000, and are a major cost factor for burials. They can be purchased outside of funeral homes, which can help save on costs.
What is typically included in a burial service?
A place for burial
- Gravesite: The foundation of a burial is securing a plot at a cemetery. Prices vary depending on location, size, and amenities. You can also explore alternatives like community mausoleums.
- Grave opening and closing: Cemetery staff will prepare the gravesite for burial, with a separate fee.
Materials
- Casket: Caskets come in various materials like wood, metal, or fiberboard, depending on your preferences.
- Vault (Optional): This is a concrete liner for the grave. It’s required in some cemeteries, or for specific soil conditions. It adds an extra layer of protection and stability.
- Marker or headstone (Optional): These are separate purchases from the gravesite and come in various materials, sizes, and designs to personalize the grave.
Additional considerations
- Transportation: Funeral homes typically transport the body from the place of death to the cemetery (within a designated area).
- Officiant: A clergy member, celebrant, or funeral director can lead a brief graveside service, often with a separate fee.
- Embalming: Embalming might be required for certain burial procedures or extended viewing times.
Is support available if you are unable to afford a burial service?
County burial programs
Many California counties have burial programs that assume responsibility for burials when no other resources are available. Eligibility requirements and application processes vary by county.
Contact your local department of social services or coroner's office to inquire about:
- Specific eligibility: These programs often have income thresholds or other requirements to qualify.
- Documentation needed: Proof of residency, income, and the death certificate may be required.
- Services provided: The level of assistance varies, but it may cover basic burial services like a plot in a designated cemetery and a simple container.
Federal benefits
- Veteran's benefits: Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for burial benefits through the National Cemetery Administration, a branch of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
These benefits include:- Free burial plot: Burial in a national cemetery with available space.
- Government-furnished headstone or marker: The VA provides a standard headstone or marker for all eligible veterans buried in a national cemetery.
- Burial flag: A U.S. flag is presented to the family at the time of burial.
- Burial allowance: The VA may provide a monetary allowance to help defray burial expenses for veterans who die outside of a VA facility.
- The California Alternative Funeral & Disposition Assistance Act: This act was passed in 2016 and requires funeral homes to disclose alternative, lower-cost burial options alongside traditional services. Make sure you explore these options with funeral homes to determine if they align with your needs and budget.
Non-profit organizations
- Local faith-based and community organizations: Many faith-based organizations and community centers offer financial aid for funeral expenses to their members or residents within their service area.
Reach out to local churches, synagogues, or community centers to inquire about any support they may offer.
Differences between burials and other options
A burial may be the most well-known next step after losing a loved one — however, it isn’t the only option available to you.
Here are the ways you can bid farewell to your loved one in a way that honors their life and aligns with your values:
Traditional burial
The customary method of laying a body to rest in a cemetery plot is often accompanied by a funeral service. It offers a physical space for remembrance but is typically the most expensive option due to cemetery costs and casket selection.
Cremation
This is a process where the body is reduced to ashes through intense heat. Unlike burials, cremated remains offer flexibility for placement in a cemetery, urn, or scattering in a designated location.
You can also create memorial tokens such as jewelry or keepsakes made from the ashes.
While cremation itself is generally less expensive than a burial, associated funeral home fees and urn selection can affect the overall cost.
Aquamation or water cremation
This is an eco-friendly approach to cremation that uses natural elements of water and alkali salts, eliminating the need for flames.
Compared to traditional cremation, it uses less energy and is considered more eco-friendly.
Body donation
Donating the body to science or medical education programs is an alternative to burial. This offers a valuable contribution to medical advancements but requires prior arrangements with a medical institution and may not be suitable for everyone due to religious or cultural beliefs.
Remember: The decision is personal. Consider cultural traditions, your loved one's wishes, costs associated, and the preferences of family members while choosing an option.
Next steps
If you’re considering cremation, Meadow is here to offer a gentle hand and a streamlined approach to managing one.
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 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 $3,995, 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.
Our team is available 24/7 to guide you through this process. Explore our personalized memorial services to honor your loved one, on your own terms.
