What is the average cost of cremation?

The national average cost of direct cremation in North America is $1,000, as of April 2015, according to the Cremation Association of North America. However, the cost of cremation increases if it includes an urn and certain memorial services.

Cremation is less expensive than a traditional funeral that involves burying a casket and purchasing a headstone and cemetery plot. The national average cost of a cremation and memorial service combined is $1650. The cost of a funeral that includes cremation and memorial services can vary according to chosen goods and services. Choosing an expensive urn crafted by an artisan can dramatically increase the cost of a cremation and funeral ceremony, as can the addition of an elaborate memorial service.