Why cremation is cheaper than a burial

When it comes to deciding whether a burial or cremation is most cost-effective, cremation usually costs far less, which may account for the rapid rise in cremations over the last few decades. However, there are many factors that go into determining the cost of a burial or cremation. Here are a few to consider:

The average cost of a burial in many parts of Canada is around $10,500, which includes the cost of a casket. Caskets alone can range from $1,000 to over $10,000 depending on what type you choose. For those who want extras such as viewings, hearse limos or a funeral vault, the price can rapidly rise from there.

A death in the family is a difficult time, and worrying about money often doesn't make things easier. That's why when choosing between a burial or cremation, many opt for the cremation because it's cheaper. People may also indicate a preference for cremation long before they pass on to help family and friends save on funeral costs.

The average cost of a cremation, which includes a basic memorial service, is about $1,500. For those who don't want a memorial service, costs can be as low as $500 after some searching.

Cremation involves incinerating a body over the course of several hours, which produces ashes of the deceased. However, before cremation, you'll usually have to purchase a container to place the body in during the cremation process, which can cost around $100.

Usually, the ashes are then placed inside an urn, which can dramatically range in price, all the way from $100 to over $1,000 depending on the urn you want. You can choose between marble, copper, bronze and other materials, as well as a number of different urn styles and designs.

If you want additional services related to the cremation, prices can quickly reach burial costs. For example, if you want the urn to be placed in a burial plot or vault, you'll likely have to pay more than $1,000 for these options.

Many choose to scatter the ashes, which can provide symbolic meaning, especially if the ashes are spread in an area that meant something to the deceased. It also happens to be a lot less expensive than other options.

Burial still has its place, with many choosing it out of tradition or due to the closure it provides, but in the end it's still the more expensive option. For saving money, choosing a cremation is the most reasonable choice.