A lot of people are shocked to learn just how much the cost of cremation really is in the United States. It’s true that if you’re choosing between a cremation or burial, cremation is the more affordable option. That being said, cremation is still a costly process in most states. How much does cremation cost in Florida?
Jump ahead to these sections:
- Average Cost of Cremation in Florida
- Is Cremation Popular in Florida?
- Popular Crematories in Florida
- Charities, Nonprofits or Government Programs That Help With Cremation in Florida
The Sunshine State is a popular retirement spot, so it only makes sense to have a lot of options when it comes to your final resting place. However, compared to the cost of funerals throughout the country, Florida is one of the most expensive states. Ultimately, the final price depends on the type of cremation service, as well as your city.
The cost of cremation varies greatly throughout the US. If you’re researching a cremation in Florida, it’s important to know what budget to keep in mind. The more you understand about funeral costs, the better equipped you’ll be to plan for the future or organize a service for a loved one.
Average Cost of Cremation in Florida
First, the average cost of cremation in Florida depends on the type of cremation you choose. A traditional cremation is when you preserve the body (typically through embalming), and you might hold a funeral service with the casket present. This is the more expensive option. On the other hand, you can also choose a direct cremation in which the body is cremated right away, saving on costs.
Traditional cremation
A traditional cremation in Florida costs between $1,500 and $3,000. The overall cost depends on many factors like whether you choose to have your loved one embalmed, whether you purchase a cremation casket, and your urn choice. The timing of the cremation also affects the price, since a delayed cremation means the body is preserved longer.
A traditional cremation is the most common choice, but many families are open-minded when it comes to keeping costs down. Most prepaid cremation packages include a traditional cremation, and this is what most people are familiar with.
Direct cremation
That being said, you can also keep costs lower with a direct cremation. This costs an average of $500 to $1,5000. In Florida, cremation providers can obtain what’s known as a “direct disposer” license. This means they can provide a lower-cost direct cremation without needing to meet the larger qualifications of a full-service cremation provider.
Because there are a variety of direct disposer specialists in Florida, it’s becoming more accessible. Cremation costs are more competitive than ever before. If you’re interested in a basic cremation, it’s possible to get this at a lower rate in Florida compared to other states.
Is Cremation Popular in Florida?
Compared to other states, cremation is booming in Florida. While cremation is on the rise across the globe, especially in North America, it’s particularly popular in the Sunshine State. In fact, Florida is leading the nation in cremation. With a cremation rate of 62.7%, it’s one of the top states to choose cremation.
Why is cremation the top choice in Florida? With only 3% of the US population choosing cremation in 1960, it’s clear this technology has come a long way. Cremation is popular for a number of valid reasons:
- Cost: The biggest reason cremation is so popular is because of the cost. Costing between $1,500 and $3,000 for a traditional cremation, it’s much more affordable to go this route than to choose a burial, which can cost $5,000 or more.
- Impact: More people are also aware of the environmental impact of burials. Cremation is a more eco-friendly alternative.
- Decisions: Additionally, many people are pre-arranging their funerals in Florida. With a higher elderly population than in other states, individuals are more likely to choose cremation for themselves rather than letting their family decide.
Florida is notoriously known as the retirement capital of the United States. With a larger aging population comes more competition amongst funeral homes and crematoriums. This competition is a good thing for consumers who have more options and lower costs in many places.
Popular Crematories in Florida
If you’ve decided to choose cremation in Florida, you’re in luck. There are a lot of popular crematories to choose from. These are trusted options, and they’ve been serving families across the state for decades.
National Cremation
Founded in 1973, the nation’s oldest and largest provider of cremation services has several locations throughout Florida. With both pre-planning options and immediate need services, this is a trusted provider. National Cremation has 10 locations throughout Florida, so it’s easy to find one near you.
Florida Direct Cremation (Tampa)
Florida Direct Cremation is a direct cremation provider in the Tampa Bay region. This family-owned and operated crematory services Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. With their pricing listed clearly on their website, this is an affordable, trusted cremation provider for those in the southwest region of Florida.
Atlantis Cremations (Miami-Dade)
Another family-owned and operated cremation provider is Atlantis Cremations. They specialize in both simple and personalized cremation services designed with your needs in mind. All arrangements can be done in advance, fully online, and you can also visit their location in person. Atlantis Cremation services South Florida, including Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties.
Just Cremation (Jacksonville)
For families looking for a low-cost, affordable option when it comes to honoring their loved ones, Just Cremation in Jacksonville, Florida is a great pick. With fully online cremation planning, you can finalize your loved one’s wishes without leaving the house. Their packages start at $699, making them one of the least expensive options in the region. They also offer additional assistance if you wish to hold a visitation or funeral.
Coast to Coast Cremations (Ocala)
Lastly, Coast to Coast Cremations offers affordable cremations in North Central Florida. Because they’re locally owned, they work with families to meet individual needs. All arrangements can be made online, and it’s easy to explore their simple pricing options. Coast to Coast Cremation serves the Ocala region, and they’re changing the model for working with funeral homes.
Charities, Nonprofits or Government Programs That Help With Cremation in Florida
While there are many ways to lower your funeral costs, such as choosing direct cremation, this is still a financial burden for many families. Luckily, there are charities that help with funeral costs. Here are some of the leading charities and programs that help with cremation in Florida.
Tip: If you can't get help with cremation from a charity, you're still not alone. Consider creating an online memorial page that allows visitors to give donations. Cake's online memorial pages are an easy way to pay tribute to your loved one and raise money for final expenses like cremation.
The TEARS Foundation
The TEARS Foundation helps families who have lost a child or infant afford a funeral and cremation. Complete their online application form to discover which grants you might qualify for. They offer both financial and emotional assistance for families in need.
Funeral Consumer Alliance of SE Florida
The Funeral Consumer Alliance of Southeast Florida is a non-profit that helps Florida residents afford dignified funeral arrangements. They serve seven counties in Southeast Florida, and they’ve done this work for the community since 1968. Visit their website to learn how to join their program or offer support.
Seminole County Community Assistance
For those that reside in Seminole County, there are a number of community services and helpful divisions. There is an application online for anyone who dies within Seminole County borders that provides burial or cremation assistance for anyone who qualifies. This assistance also applies to those who die without relatives to claim their bodies.
Florida Veteran Foundation
The Florida Veteran Foundation launched No Veteran Left Behind to raise awareness around unique issues that face veterans. The Florida Veteran Foundation provides emergency financial assistance to veteran families in need, including those who need help paying for final arrangements. Veterans come from all backgrounds, and it’s important that there are programs designed with their needs in mind.
Lee County Assistance
Lastly, Lee County offers a variety of community assistance programs for those in need. Located in Southwest Florida, these services are available to any Lee County resident. They have funds to assist with cremation services for those in need. It’s possible to apply online to determine if you qualify.
Explore Cremation in Florida
Ultimately, it’s easy to see why cremation is on the rise in Florida. The Sunshine State is known as a retirement oasis, and there are endless options when it comes to arranging your own funeral or a service for someone you love. With so many providers comes lower-cost options and services, making Florida one of the best places to plan a service.
That being said, education and awareness are key. When you understand your options, it’s easier to plan ahead. Saying goodbye to a loved one shouldn’t be a heavy financial burden. It’s all about honoring their wishes and their memory.
Have you recently lost someone? Navigating loss and the steps that come after can be confusing. Our free, interactive post-loss checklist is here to guide you through each stage of the process.
If you're a Florida resident and ready to start preparing your own end-of-life planning documents, Cake has Advance Care Planning forms you can download. To help ease your planning, we have all the documents you need in one place.
Sources:
- “Arranging a funeral or cremation in Florida.” US Funerals Online. US-Funerals.com.
- “Cremation in America.” Slate Moneybox. Slate.com.
- “How to Protect Yourself: Casket and Burial Vaults.” Office of Attorney General. MyFloridaLegal.com.