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9 Affordable Burial and Cremation Options

Discover affordable burial and cremation options, from natural burials to cremation gardens. Learn how to plan ahead, save money, and find meaningful ways to honor your legacy.
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Planning for end-of-life arrangements can be a daunting and emotional task, but it’s one that can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. One of the most practical aspects to consider in the process is cost. While some may prefer a traditional burial it can be prohibitively expensive for many families. The good news? Whether you lean toward burial or cremation, there are plenty of meaningful, affordable alternatives that can align with your values and budget while providing a respectful, thoughtful final resting place.

From direct burial and cremation to ash scattering in a national forest, keep reading to explore nine affordable burial and cremation alternatives.

The Need for Affordable Burial and Cremation Options

Traditional burial has a significant financial burden that has caused many to look for more affordable burial and cremation options. On average, traditional burial costs upwards of $15,000, which can feel exorbitant for many. Traditional burial also commonly involves embalming fluids, caskets, and concrete vaults which have their environmental drawbacks. These practices are at odds with the growing effort to leave the planet better than you found it for future generations. More affordable burial and cremation options often address environmental and financial concerns while providing a more meaningful way to honor loved ones. 

a tombstone sits in a cemetery. This is not an affordable burial option

Affordable Burial Options 

Today, many alternatives to traditional burial offer both affordability and flexibility. Find the best affordable burial option for your family below:

1. Direct Burial

Direct burial foregoes expensive add-ons like embalming, viewings, and funeral services. The body is buried shortly after death and families typically opt for a shroud or basic casket to keep costs low while still providing an honorable final resting place. This option eliminates costs associated with preserving the body, renting a venue, and purchasing an elaborate casket.  According to Funeralocity, the average cost of direct burial in the U.S. is $2,597. This price does not include the cost of a casket, which has an average price of $2,500 according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

2. Natural Burial

Natural burial eliminates many of the elements that make traditional burial so costly—like embalming, caskets, and vaults. Instead, natural burial uses biodegradable materials and avoids unnecessary add-ons that quickly increase burial costs. In place of a casket, natural burials use a shroud or natural wooden casket that breaks down and costs much less than a casket used for traditional burial. Learn why people are choosing natural burial more than ever. 

3. Private Burial 

If your family owns a plot of land that will remain in the family, a private burial may be a meaningful and sentimental option. Without purchasing a cemetery plot, you can save a lot of money on burial expenses. However, it’s important to note that private land burials often require permits and adherence to local zoning regulations, which vary by location. Once approved, families can choose to hold an intimate ceremony, often using a simple casket or biodegradable shroud.

4. Shared Plot

Sharing a burial plot with your family or loved one can significantly lower the cost of burial. Instead of needing, say two plots for yourself and your spouse, you’ll just pay for one double plot. This also allows you to purchase just one headstone or shared marker while creating a legacy of togetherness with your loved one. 

Affordable Cremation Options 

If you plan to be cremated, there are many affordable options on the market to choose from. Browse our list to find the best alternative for your family. 

1. Direct Cremation 

Like direct burial, direct cremation is the most straightforward form of cremation. Direct cremation happens shortly after death, without a visitation or funeral service beforehand, and doesn’t use embalming chemicals or a casket. This cremation option is far less expensive than traditional burial, costing around $2,645 on average. Learn why people are opting for direct cremation to save money while honoring their loved ones. 

2. Cremation Through a Non-Profit

Many end-of-life non-profit organizations will offer cremation at a lower cost for those who need financial assistance. This option not only makes cremation more accessible but also aligns with values of kindness, community, and purpose. You can look into this option by searching for end-of-life non-profits in your area and inquiring about their cremation services and discounts. 

3. Memorial Forest 

Choosing to spread your ashes in a private and protected forest is often the best choice for those looking for an environmentally-conscious final resting place that doesn’t break the bank. At Better Place Forests, we provide final resting places at your own Memorial Tree in a protected forest. After the body has been cremated, ashes can be spread at the base of your own tree allowing you to return to the earth and rejoin the cycle of life. 

4. Cremation Garden

Cremation gardens offer families an affordable way to honor loved ones in a peaceful, thoughtfully designed space. These gardens, often found in natural settings such as forests, parks, or botanical gardens, provide a practical and comforting alternative to scattering, allowing families to create a lasting memorial where they can revisit and reflect. You may also find a Spreading Grove where you can spread ashes in a dedicated grove of trees in a protected forest with Better Place Forests a good option.

5. Ash Scattering 

After cremating a body, ash scattering is perhaps the most affordable way to disperse cremated remains. This process can be done for extremely low permit fees in national parks and nature areas, sometimes as low as $10-20. Ash scattering often allows for a beautiful outdoor ceremony, but doesn’t offer a central place to return to which can turn many people away from the practice. 

A table with urns of cremated remains. This is affordable cremation

Tips for Finding Affordable End-of-Life Options 

Pre-Plan

Setting up a pre-paid funeral plan ensures your final wishes are clearly defined and paid for in advance, relieving your family of the stress and financial burden of making last-minute decisions while in the throes of grief. Pre-planning can be as extensive as you like. While some just choose their preferred funeral home, you can go as far as pre-paying for your funeral service and final resting place. Whatever you choose, know that making plans now will help your loved ones in the future. 

Shop Around

Shopping around allows you to make the most financially-conscious decision for your final resting place. Too often, end-of-life decisions are made during times of grief or illness, which can make it difficult to prioritize financial considerations. By starting early and exploring your options, you can identify the best end-of-life providers at the most reasonable costs. Take your time, compare options, and select what works best for both your needs and your budget.

Find Packages 

Many end-of-life providers will provide packages for their services. Choosing a package to bundle your end-of-life needs can save a lot of money down the line so make sure you ask if there is a way to bundle all of the things that you want in your final resting place. 

When it comes to your final resting place, affordability doesn’t have to sacrifice your legacy. Whether you’re drawn to natural burial, direct cremation, or ash scattering in a peaceful forest, there are countless affordable alternatives to traditional burial. By exploring your options early and choosing a plan that aligns with your values and budget, you can ease the financial and emotional burden on your loved ones while ensuring your final wishes are honored.

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