Cremation has become one of the most common choices for families today, offering a dignified and often more affordable alternative to a traditional funeral. When asking “how much does cremation cost,” the answer depends on the type of service, provider, and level of personalization chosen.

What You Need to Know About Cremation Costs & the Services Involved

  • Cremation Costs Vary: Prices depend on the type of service, from simple direct cremation to full-service options with a funeral or memorial.
  • Direct Cremation is the Most Affordable Option: It includes only the essentials, such as paperwork, transportation, the cremation process, and the return of remains.
  • Traditional Cremation Costs More: Adding services like a viewing, funeral ceremony, or upgraded cremation casket increases overall expenses.
  • Cremation Saves Money Compared to Burial: Direct cremation is typically much less expensive than a traditional funeral and burial.
  • Memorialization is Flexible: Families can choose from a range of options, from scattering ashes to hosting a formal memorial service, regardless of their budget.

Average Cost of Cremation

The cost of a cremation varies widely depending on the choices families make.

  • Direct Cremation Costs: How much does cremation cost without services? In most cases, the answer is found in a direct cremation. Often called basic cremation, this option covers only the essentials: transportation of the deceased, required paperwork, a cremation container, the cremation process itself, and the return of cremated remains. Since it does not include a viewing or funeral service, direct cremation is typically the most affordable choice.
  • Traditional Cremation: This combines cremation with elements of a traditional funeral service, such as embalming, a funeral ceremony, visitation, or use of funeral home facilities. The addition of these services makes the average cremation cost higher, often comparable to a burial.
  • Full Service Cremation: Families can also choose packages that include a memorial service, upgraded cremation casket, or coordination by a funeral director. These cremation expenses reflect the level of support provided.

On a national scale, the average cost of direct cremation is significantly lower than that of a traditional funeral service, making it an option for families who want to save money while still honoring their loved one.

Services Typically Included with Cremation

Most cremation service providers include a set of basic services, with optional add-ons depending on preference:

  • Transportation of the deceased
  • Filing of permits and death certificates
  • Provision of a cremation container
  • The actual cremation
  • Return of the cremated remains

Optional services may include:

  • Viewing or funeral service before cremation
  • A post-cremation memorial service, planned by funeral home staff
  • Upgraded urns, cremation caskets, or keepsake containers
  • Delivery of cremated remains or scattering services
  • Assistance with additional death certificates
Various options allow you to scale pricing based on your needs

The Cremation Process Step by Step

Understanding the cremation process can help families feel more prepared during a difficult time. While details vary by state and provider, the following steps are generally included:

1. Arrangements

Families begin by meeting with a funeral director or cremation service provider. During this stage, families will:

  • Complete necessary paperwork, including the cremation authorization form
  • Provide vital information needed for the death certificate
  • Make initial choices about the type of service (direct cremation, traditional cremation, or a memorial service later)
  • Discuss optional add-ons, such as urns, keepsake items, or upgraded containers

2. Transportation

Once arrangements are finalized, the deceased is respectfully transported to the crematory. In most cases:

  • Transportation from the place of death (home, hospital, or nursing facility) is included in basic services
  • The deceased is cared for in a secure and dignified manner until cremation can take place

3. Waiting Period

By law, most states, including Pennsylvania, require a brief waiting period before cremation may begin. This typically lasts 24 to 72 hours and ensures:

  • Proper time for families to complete paperwork and make final decisions
  • All required permits are secured from the local registrar or medical examiner
  • The death certificate is filed and approved

4. The Cremation

When the waiting period has passed and all authorizations are in place, the cremation itself occurs:

  • The deceased is placed in a cremation container (a sturdy, combustible cremation casket or container)
  • The process takes several hours, during which the body is reduced to bone fragments
  • Fragments are carefully processed into a fine, ash-like consistency

5. Return of Remains

Once complete, the cremated remains are returned to the family:

  • A simple, basic container is usually included in the cremation cost
  • Families may choose to upgrade to a decorative urn or cremation casket
  • Additional death certificates may be ordered at this stage, if needed

6. Memorialization

Finally, families can decide how to honor their loved one’s memory. Options may include:

  • Holding a memorial service at home, a place of worship, or outdoors
  • Organizing a formal funeral ceremony with friends and family
  • Scattering ashes in a meaningful location
  • Creating keepsakes such as jewelry, glass art, or small urns
  • Placing remains in a columbarium, cemetery, or family plot

How Much Does Cremation Cost? Comparing Direct Cremation and Traditional Funeral Service

Feature Direct Cremation Traditional Funeral Service
Average Cost Lowest-cost option, typically under $2,500 Average cost: $8,300
Services Included Paperwork, cremation, return of remains Viewing, embalming, service, staff, and burial
Flexibility Memorial can be held later, anywhere Services usually take place in a funeral home
Cremation Container Basic container provided Premium casket or cremation casket optional
Family Involvement Allows families to plan personal memorials Structured by provider and staff

Ways to Save Money on Cremation

  • Choose Direct Cremation: Eliminating the need for embalming, viewing, or a facility rental reduces costs significantly.
  • Plan a Memorial Service Later: Hosting a gathering at home, outdoors, or in a community space can cut cremation prices while still creating meaningful remembrance.
  • Compare Cremation Providers: Always ask for an itemized General Price List, which is required by law, to understand all potential cremation expenses.
  • Consider Preplanning: Locking in today’s rates helps families avoid rising costs and eases decision-making later.
  • Provide Your Own Urn: Families have the right to use their own cremation container or urn instead of purchasing directly from the provider.

Understanding how much cremation costs and what services are included can help families make informed decisions during a difficult time. From low-cost cremation to full-service cremation, there are options for every budget and preference.

If you are exploring cremation in Pennsylvania, the Cremation Society of Pennsylvania provides clear pricing, guidance through the cremation process, and flexible service options to help families choose what feels right for them. We offer low-cost cremation packages starting at $995. Contact a member of our staff to learn more.