The 8 Best California Cremation Services

This guide helps you find the best California cremations and funeral providers to help you plan the next steps for your loved ones with confidence.

If you're exploring California cremations and feeling unsure about where to start, this guide is for you. Whether you're looking for a simple, affordable option or something more personalized, we're here to ensure every step feels a little more manageable.

How To Choose the Best Service Provider for California Cremations

As you consider the many options you have to choose from for a cremation in California, keep in mind these points:

Transparency and fair pricing
The cost of cremation in California can vary widely, so it's helpful to know exactly what you're paying for upfront. Look for a provider who offers clear pricing without hidden fees, ensuring your family can focus on what matters during a difficult time.

Range of services offered
Whether you're considering direct cremation or something more personalized like a memorial service, finding a provider that offers a variety of services allows you to choose what feels right for your family. Make sure they can meet your needs with flexibility and care.

Legal requirements and regulations in California
Cremation in California comes with specific legal requirements. Choose a provider who’s well-versed in these regulations to ensure that the process is handled legally and ethically. Their knowledge can save you from potential complications.

Environmental considerations
Many families are now thinking about the environmental impact of cremation. Some providers offer eco-friendly options, such as biodegradable urns or tree-planting services. If sustainability is important to you, ask about these alternatives.

Local expertise and community ties
A provider with strong local ties often brings a personal touch to their services. They understand the community's traditions and values, making them better equipped to offer support during a challenging time. Their experience and reputation within the area can offer peace of mind to you and your family.

The 8 Best Cremation Services in California

In this list, we’ll help you answer questions like, "How much is cremation in California?" We’ll look at what makes each option unique, provide an overview of customer feedback, and determine which are the best service providers for cremation in California.

1. Meadow Memorials


Meadow Memorials
specializes in comprehensive cremation services in the Los Angeles area, offering a range of options from direct cremation to personalized memorial planning services.

Starting with our basic cremation package, we provide:

  • All-inclusive cremation package with no hidden fees
  • 24/7 transportation and care with no weight limit
  • All necessary paperwork and permits
  • A handmade black walnut urn
  • Nationwide delivery of remains

For those seeking a more personalized touch, we extend our services to include customizable memorial services. Meadow sets itself apart through its commitment to personalization, tailored to your needs – from the initial cremation arrangements to the final memorial service.

What truly distinguishes us is our approach to client relationships. Meadow’s staff is dedicated to treating each client like family, offering compassionate support beyond just professional service. This means being available to answer questions or address concerns at any time, and we go above and beyond to ensure that both the cremation process and any subsequent memorial service meet and exceed expectations.

Whether you're looking for a simple cremation, or a more elaborate memorial, or a celebration of life, Meadow Memorials offers transparent pricing, clear communication, and a range of options to honor your loved one in a way that feels right for your family.

Pricing and customer feedback

  • Meadow Memorials offers an all-inclusive, Signature cremation package priced at $1,295.

  • For those seeking additional services, memorial add-on packages are available starting from $1,970.

  • Positive reviews frequently highlight Meadow Memorials' compassionate care, clear communication, and attention to detail.

  • Customers have praised the company for handling all aspects of arrangements, which allows families to focus on their grieving process.

2. Neptune Society


Neptune Society is a long-standing cremation service provider with over 40 years of experience serving California families.
They offer essential cremation services and pre-planning options.

Pricing and customer feedback

  • Basic cremation starts at $1,900. However, prices may vary based on weight.

  • Neptune Society charges additional fees for certified death certificates, permits, and cremations of bodies over a certain weight limit.

  • There is generally positive feedback on compassionate staff and efficient process; however, there are some complaints about inconsistent communication and administrative issues.

3. Tulip Cremation


Tulip Cremation provides direct cremation services with a focus on affordability and remote convenience.
According to their website, they offer 24/7 online or phone arrangements for various planning needs.

Pricing and customer feedback

  • The direct cremation package is priced at $1,195 and includes cremation services, plastic urn, and domestic shipping.

  • Customer reviews are mixed, with some customers mentioning affordability, clear pricing, and ease of online arrangements, and some complaints about inconsistent customer service and cremation process issues.

4. East Lawn

East Lawn is a funeral service provider in Sacramento, offering a wide range of options for honoring loved ones. They operate their own facilities, including funeral homes, a crematory, and cemeteries, providing end-to-end care for families.


Pricing and customer feedback

  • East Lawn offers a traditional package priced at $6,925 with a visitation, or $6,230 without visitation.

  • Their direct cremation service starts at $2,795.00.

  • Prices for burial services at East Lawn vary depending on the specific options chosen by the family.

  • Customer feedback frequently highlights the supportive nature of the staff and their professionalism.

  • Many customers also comment positively on the beauty of East Lawn's facility.

5. The Cremation Society of Los Angeles


The Cremation Society of Los Angeles is a family-owned cremation service provider with 75 years of experience serving the Los Angeles area.
They focus on offering affordable and straightforward cremation services as an alternative to traditional funerals.


Pricing and customer feedback

  • The Cremation Society of Los Angeles offers a simple cremation package priced at $950.

  • They provide a cremation with a memorial package at $1,995.

  • A cremation with graveside service is available for $1,795.

  • It's important to note that their simple package may offer fewer personalization options compared to Meadow's customizable memorial services.

  • Customer reviews frequently mention the staff's professionalism, dedication, and hospitality.

  • However, some reviews mention concerns about upselling practices and delays in communication.

6. Foothill Funeral and Cremation


Foothill Funeral and Cremation is a family and woman-operated funeral service provider located in Glendora, California.
They offer a wide range of funeral, cremation, and memorial services with a focus on personalization and celebrating life.


Pricing and customer feedback

  • The basic services of a funeral director and staff are priced at $1,995.

  • Direct cremation services range from $1,895 to $2,090, depending on specific requirements.

  • Immediate burial services are offered at prices between $1,995 and $3,290.

  • A traditional funeral package costs $6,925 with a visitation, or $6,230 without visitation.

  • Multiple customer reviews have praised the staff for their professionalism, helpfulness, and respectful treatment.

7. Fernwood Cemetery and Funeral Home


Fernwood Cemetery and Funeral Home, located in Mill Valley, California, is one of the country's first environmentally conscious funeral homes.
They offer a unique blend of traditional and green burial options, cremation services, and contemporary memorial services.


Pricing and customer feedback

  • Pricing information is not publicly available on their website, so potential customers would need to contact Fernwood directly for cost details.

  • Fernwood Cemetery holds a unique position as one of only two natural burial sites in the entire state of California, offering an eco-friendly option for those seeking a more sustainable approach to burial.

  • Customer reviews frequently praise Fernwood, with many highlighting the cemetery's beautiful location and the compassionate nature of the staff as standout features of their experience.

  • Fernwood Cemetery has received commendations for their comprehensive range of services, which includes transportation, cremation, and assistance with organizing celebration of life arrangements, providing a full spectrum of support for families during difficult times.

8. Partridge Creek Mortuary


Partridge Creek Mortuary is a family-owned funeral service provider located in Alpine, California.
They offer a range of cremation and burial services with a focus on personalized care and affordability.


Pricing and customer feedback

  • Partridge Creek Mortuary offers direct cremation services starting at $895, providing an affordable option for those seeking a simple process.

  • For families wishing to celebrate their loved one's life, the mortuary provides a cremation package with celebration of life services priced at $1,565, plus applicable taxes.

  • Those preferring a more traditional approach can opt for their traditional services with cremation, which is available at $2,635, plus tax.

  • For those choosing burial, Partridge Creek's direct burial service starts at $2,145.

  • Customer feedback has been notably positive, with many clients commending the mortuary for their respectful and dignified handling of loved ones throughout the process.

  • Families have appreciated how the staff at Partridge Creek made the entire experience easier and more seamless during what is typically a difficult and emotional time.

Meadow’s Services Are the Most Customizable for Your Needs

We hope this guide answers your questions about California cremations providers. Our hope is that you can take your next steps with assurance and confidence.

If you’re still planning out a funeral or memorial event in the Los Angeles area, consider using Meadow.

At Meadow, we understand the weight of this moment, and we’re here to offer a gentle hand and a streamlined approach to cremation planning.

We offer both direct cremations and thoughtful memorials, which can take place shortly after your loved one’s passing or at a later date, depending on your family’s preferences.

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.

  • Dedicated guidance: Our experienced funeral director and staff will walk you through every step, offering compassionate support and answering any questions you may have.

  • 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 $1,295 for a cremation only or $1,970 to $3,900+ to add on a memorial or celebration of life service, 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.

Explore our cremation & personalized memorial services.

Choose the best plan for your loved one

All plans include:

Private, dignified cremation
24/7 transportation and care
Secure refrigeration
All necessary legal paperwork
Death certificate filing
Social security notification
Easy-to-use online portal
Around the clock support
Affordable monthly payment plans

Flexible add-on services available:

1-hour ID viewing: $600
Scattering at sea (unwitnessed): $350

Basic

Cannot be Prepaid

  • Pick up ashes at local crematory

  • Free, temporary plastic urn (upgrade options available)

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