How Much Does A Cremation Cost?

Cremation costs vary widely depending on your location and the level of services chosen. Here are the least expensive options:

• Direct cremation does not include any funeral proceedings and is the cheapest alternative.
• Donating the body to science is a free option that includes cremation. However, certain acceptance parameters must be met before using this option.

Here are some eco-friendly or “green” alternatives to cremation:

• Water Cremation (Aquamation or Alkaline Hydrolysis) is similar to traditional cremation but uses water and an alkaline solution to accelerate the natural decomposition rather than fire. It consumes roughly one-tenth of the energy compared to traditional cremation.
• Biodegradable tree urns are buried in the ground. As they biodegrade, they provide nourishment for the included seed to grow into a tree.
• Recomposition, or human composting, is legal in a small but growing number of states in the US. It provides an environmentally friendly way to use the carbon in the body to benefit the earth.

Cremation is an affordable alternative to burial. The additional expenses for viewing the body prior to cremation and funeral services add to the cost. Do your research and ask for an itemized list to understand the costs involved so you can make the best choices for your loved one.