How To Find An Affordable Cremation (2024)

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Cremation is an increasingly popular option for those wishing to say goodbye to their loved ones. It is often seen as a more affordable and practical alternative to traditional burial methods. If you are considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, there are a few things you should know about how to find an affordable cremation service.

What is cremation?

Cremation is the process of using high temperatures to reduce a body to its basic elements. The process usually takes place in a specially designed cremation chamber, which is also known as a cremator.

Cremation is a popular choice for many people, because it is often seen as a more affordable and practical alternative to traditional burial methods. It is also a more environmentally friendly option, as it does not require the use of land for burial purposes. Additionally, embalming fluids are a big environmental issue in traditional burials.

What's the difference between a traditional cremation and a direct cremation?

The main difference between a traditional cremation and a direct cremation is that with a traditional cremation, there’s a memorial service with the ashes present (or not present) and the funeral home handles the service. Direct cremations forego the funeral handling services and have the body cremated immediately. Skipping the viewing means a reduction in price and results in a low cost cremation.

How much does cremation cost?

Cremation services costs can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of cremation you choose, the location, and whether or not you wish to have a viewing or memorial service before the cremation.

Traditional cremations typically cost between $4,000 and $7,000. Direct cremation costs typically range between $1,000 and $5,000.

While these prices can vary depending on location (and other factors), it's helpful to have an understanding of the average prices in your area when researching cremation services costs. In general, direct cremations are the cheapest cremation options available to families and individuals. You can compare funeral homes and pricing using Ever Loved’s database.

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Cost of cremation vs. burial

The average cost of a traditional funeral (including burial) can range from $7,000 to $10,000. Cremation typically costs a fraction of the price of a traditional funeral, ranging between $4,000 and $7,000 for those interested in holding a viewing or service beforehand.

Another factor to consider when comparing the cost of cremation vs. burial is the cost of the cemetery plot. The average cost of a cemetery plot can range from $525 to $5,000. When you factor in the cost of the headstone, opening and closing fees, and other related expenses, cremation costs are significantly lower.

How can I find low-cost or direct cremations near me?

There are a number of ways to find affordable cremations near you. One way is to research cremation providers in your area and compare prices. On Ever Loved, you can easily choose your location, read reviews, compare prices, and get an understanding of the prices and services offered by cremation services in your area.

Are there no cost cremations available?

If your family is unable to afford a cremation or is looking for an altruistic alternative to a traditional cremation service, consider donating the body to science. Donating the body to science is a (generally) free way to have the individual cremated, and it can be a great way to contribute to medical research.

If you're interested in the cheapest cremation option available, get to work comparing body donation organizations. You can compare body donation organizations and programs on Ever Loved where you can read reviews and get in touch with the organizations regarding the process.

In general, when you choose to donate a body to science, the institution or organization will handle the transport, disposition, and return of the ashes at no cost to the family. You will want to check with your chosen organization as return of the ashes is not a guarantee with each body donation organization and though they're mostly free, you may end up with unexpected expenses unless you do preliminary research.

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If you have a loved one who recently passed away, consider starting a memorial fundraiser to raise funds towards funeral expenses. Memorial websites are also a great way to celebrate the life of your loved one, share memories and photos, and stay connected with friends and family during the grieving process. Best of all, they're free to create on Ever Loved!

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