How Much is a Funeral in California? Full Costs Explained (2024)

Learn the different funeral options available, from burial to cremation, and get a clear answer to the question: How much is a funeral in California?

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience. In addition to the emotional toll, funeral planning can add unexpected financial stress.

If you're facing this situation, you're likely wondering: How much is a funeral in California?

This article will break down the average costs associated with funerals and cremations in the state. We'll explore the factors impacting price and offer options to navigate the complexities of end-of-life planning. 

Whether you're considering a traditional burial or a direct cremation, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions during a difficult time.

How much is a funeral in California?

Funeral expenses can vary greatly depending on your location within California. Here's a summary of the average cost, along with a low and high range, for various counties:

Traditional full-service burial costs in California

Here's a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with a traditional burial, along with the factors affecting the price:

A traditional burial involves a viewing or visitation, funeral service, and burial in a cemetery plot. Here's a breakdown of the associated costs:

Item

Low-End

Average

High-End

Casket

$2,000

$4,000

$10,000+

Funeral Service Fees

$1,500

$3,000

$5,000+

Vault

$800

$1,500

$3,000+

Cemetery Plot

$2,000

$5,000

$20,000+

Embalming

$500

$700

$1,000+

Hearse & Transportation

$300

$500

$1,000+

Total

$6,600

$14,700

$40,000+

 

Full-service cremation costs in California

A full-service cremation includes a viewing or visitation, memorial service, and cremation itself. This allows family and friends to gather and pay their respects before the cremation takes place. 

Here's a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with a full-service cremation in California, along with the factors affecting the price:

Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with a cremation:

Item

Low-End

Average

High-End

Cremation

$1,500

$2,000

$3,000+

Funeral service fees (Viewing/Visitation, Ceremony)

$1,500

$3,000

$5,000+

Urn

$200

$500

$2,000+

Memorial service facility rental

$500

$1,000

$2,000+

Subtotal

$3,700

$6,500

$10,000+

Optional costs

Pacemaker removal (by crematory)

$100

$200

$300+

Permit for scattering ashes at sea

$50

$100

$150+

Interment in cemetery columbarium niche

$500

$1,500

$3,000+

Total with optional costs

$4,350

$8,300

$13,450+

Direct cremation costs in California

Direct cremation is the most economical option, involving cremation without a viewing or ceremony. Here's a breakdown of the associated costs:

Item

Low-End

Average

High-End

Cremation

$1,000

$1,500

$2,000+

Basic service fee

$500

$750

$1,000+

Urn (Optional)

$200

$500

$2,000+

Authorization/permits

$50

$100

$150+

Total

$1,750

$2,850

$5,150+

 

Additional factors to consider when determining the average funeral cost in California

Beyond the core expenses of a burial or cremation, there are many additional costs to consider when planning an end-of-life event. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common additional costs:

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and additional costs may arise depending on your specific needs and preferences.

It's important to carefully consider each expense and prioritize what's most important to you when planning a funeral.

Looking for a memorial service with transparent fees?

At Meadow, we offer a more compassionate and meaningful way to celebrate a life well-lived with affordable, all-inclusive cremation services and customized memorial planning services within the Los Angeles County area.

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:

Explore our Personalized Memorial Services.

California Cremation and Funeral Services

Cremation Package

The Meadow Cremation package includes everything you need for a simple cremation.

$1,295  

Chapel Service

Everything you need for a traditional memorial service at one of our partner chapels.

$1,970 

Memorial Celebration

We'll help you create a memory that will last forever at a Beautiful Venue across Los Angeles County.

from $3,900
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