Cremation costs in Florida can vary depending on where you live and the type of cremation you choose.
Regardless, cremation cost in Florida is significantly less than the cost of a traditional funeral and burial, which typically exceeds $8,000 while cremation can range from $1,000 and $6,000.
According to US Funerals Online, the average cost of a cremation and memorial service is about $5,700. However, you may opt for a direct cremation. In a direct cremation, there is no memorial service or visitation. The body is placed in a simple cardboard or wood box before cremation. Remains are returned to the family if requested in a temporary container.
The cost for a direct cremation is typically about $1,200 in most parts of the state, but you can often find rates as low as $800 if you want to shop around.
Tips for Budgeting and Savings
Besides direct cremation, there are other ways to save on cremation costs in Florida.
Pre-Planning
Planning ahead can reduce the impact of rising costs. When you pre-plan your cremation, you lock in today’s pricing versus higher costs in the future. You can also plan for your passing, relieving the burden on your family members and making your wishes clear.
Shop Around
It may seem a bit uncomfortable, but understanding your options can help you make the best decision. Costs can vary greatly between funeral homes, even for the same services.
Ask for a Price List
You can ask for a price list to compare. The federal Funeral Rule requires funeral homes to provide you with a list of prices for services. You do not have to choose a bundled option if you do not want to.
Get Total Costs
When discussing cremation costs in Florida, make sure you get a total of all services before you make a decision. There may be additional fees that drive prices higher if they are not included, such as:
- Transportation of the deceased
- Filing of paperwork or permits
- Cremation containers
- Container for remains
- Return of the ashes
- Certified death certificates
You should expect some additional costs for unusual circ*mstances, such as transporting someone who is extremely overweight or has a pacemaker that must be removed before cremation for safety reasons.
However, you should ask for the total costs for all services ahead of time and get it in writing.
Forgo a Memorial Service or Do It Yourself
Arranging a memorial service at a funeral home or church will add to the costs. At funeral homes, there will be costs for room rental, staffing, and preparation of the body including embalming. If you plan to have a viewing ceremony, embalming will be required.
As an alternative, you may hold your own memorial service at home, in a park, or elsewhere to reduce costs and add a more personal touch.
Buy Cremation Urns Online
If you do want to keep remains, you can save money by shopping online. You can find a wide selection of options and may get lower prices than if you buy through a funeral home or crematorium.
Donate Your Body to Science
Another option is to donate your body to science. United Tissue Networks (UTN) is a non-profit organization that accepts whole-body donations in Florida.
When you donate your body to science, you help advance medical research, training, technology, and education. Medical researchers and doctors have made significant advances toward finding new treatments and therapies for a wide range of diseases, including different types of cancers, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
UTN is accredited by The American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), which ensures organizations uphold the highest standards, including treating donors and families with respect and compassion.
When you donate your body to science through UTN, you can eliminate the cost of cremation in Florida. United Tissue Network pays 100% of the costs for transporting the body to reputable research or education facilities, direct cremation after research is completed, and returning the remains to family members upon request.
Making a whole-body donation to science reduces your costs while also providing a sense of purpose. Many families find comfort in knowing that the passing of a loved one can make an important contribution to medical science. It is a noble way to honor your loved one and help generations to come.
Contact United Tissue Network today at 877-738-6111 to talk to our Donor Service Coordinators. They are available to answer your questions 24/7.
