Cost of Cremation in Florida: All Average Prices Explained

Direct cremation costs in Florida are an average of $1,683. Prices usually go up to $2,777, based on the provider and location. We reviewed prices across major Florida cities and compared traditional funeral homes with online providers like After, the most budget-friendly provider.

This breakdown shows what families actually pay and where they can save money without giving up care or respect.

Here’s what this guide covers: pricing by provider type, city-specific costs, legal requirements, low-cost and free options for families, and clear guidance on which cremation option may fit your needs.

Florida Cremation Costs: At a Glance

Florida families save an average of $388 to $1,782 by choosing direct cremation instead of traditional funeral services.

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What Affects the Cost of Cremation in Florida?

Three main factors affect cremation prices in Florida. Here’s an overview:

• Location causes the biggest price differences. Cities in the Florida Panhandle, like Fort Walton Beach, have higher prices. The average there is $2,513 because there are fewer providers.
  
  
• Cities like Orlando and Tampa have more options, which keeps prices lower at $1,640 and $1,742 on average.
  
  
• South Florida cities, including Miami and Melbourne-Titusville-Palm Bay, have the lowest prices. High cremation demand and strong competition keep average costs at $1,407 and $1,351.
  
  
• Service add-ons often raise costs at funeral homes. Some providers list a low base price but charge extra for paperwork or staff time. Florida law requires funeral homes to share a General Price List (GPL). Always ask for this before agreeing to services.
  
  
• Provider overhead also affects pricing. Traditional funeral homes include building costs, staff pay, and showroom upkeep in their prices.

Florida Cremation Pricing by Major City

Direct cremation prices vary widely across Florida. The difference between the highest and lowest city averages is $1,162.

These averages come from traditional funeral homes.

Low-Cost and No-Cost Cremation Options in Florida

Families facing financial hardship may qualify for programs that lower or remove cremation costs. These options require paperwork and early planning.

County Indigent Cremation Programs

• Every Florida county offers free cremation for people whose families cannot afford services.
• Each county runs its program differently. Some require proof of low income. Others confirm that no family member can reasonably pay.
• Contact your county’s health department or social services office to ask about eligibility and applications.
• These programs usually cover basic direct cremation only. They do not include services like memorials or upgraded urns.

Veterans Benefits

• The Department of Veterans Affairs offers burial allowances of up to $1,002 for non-service-connected deaths, and up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths.
• National cemeteries provide free burial, inurnment, plot, and headstones, along with perpetual care for those who meet eligibility criteria.
  
  
• Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit a local VA office before making private arrangements.

Payment Assistance Through LilyPay

• LilyPay lets families spread costs over 3 to 6 months. Plans use a flat fee and little or no interest.
• LilyPay also supports crowdfunding through Community Gardens. Friends and family can help cover costs.
• This option works well when families need services right away but lack full upfront funds.

Simplified Arrangements

• Choosing a cardboard container instead of a decorative casket can save hundreds of dollars.
• Ordering death certificates directly from Florida’s Bureau of Vital Statistics costs $5 for the first copy and $4 for additional copies. Costs at county offices vary.

Florida Legal Requirements for Cremation

Florida law sets rules that protect families and ensure proper handling of remains. These rules also create required waiting periods and paperwork.

Mandatory 48-Hour Waiting Period

Florida requires a 48-hour wait between death and cremation. Only rare cases allow exceptions. Families cannot waive this waiting period, even for an extra fee. Plan for at least one week from death to receiving remains.

Next-of-Kin Authorization

Florida law sets a clear order for who can approve cremation. The order starts with a surviving spouse, then adult children by majority vote, followed by parents, siblings, grandchildren, and other relatives.

Providers must confirm legal authority using documents like marriage or birth certificates. Disputes stop the process until resolved legally.

Cremation Authorization

The legal next of kin must sign a cremation authorization form. This form confirms identity, legal authority, and instructions for remains.

Providers may transport the deceased before final authorization to ensure proper care.

Death Certificate and Medical Examiner Clearance

A licensed professional must confirm the cause of death before cremation.

Medical examiners review certain cases, which can add 2 to 5 business days. This step ensures proper investigation when needed.

Scattering Regulations

Rules vary by location. Florida allows ocean scattering at least three nautical miles offshore. State parks allow scattering with permission. Private property requires owner consent.

Many public beaches ban scattering and may fine violators. Always check local rules. After’s care specialists can help explain legal options.

After vs. Traditional Funeral Homes in Florida

After works best for families who want clear pricing, remote planning, and full service without facility costs. Families avoid extra fees for items like delivery or certificates.

Snowbirds also benefit from national shipping and round-the-clock support. Traditional funeral homes work best for families who want in-person meetings or plan cremation and a memorial at the same location.

Use both options if you want After for cremation but plan a memorial elsewhere. This approach often costs less than bundled funeral home packages.

Is Direct Cremation Worth It for Florida Families?

Direct cremation offers strong value for many families. Your average savings can be several thousands of dollars compared to a traditional burial.

Full-service funerals in Florida average $8,023, making the gap even larger. Direct cremation works well if you want lower costs, plan a separate memorial, live far from family, or prefer simple arrangements.

It may not fit if you prefer burial, want immediate viewing, or have religious objections. For most families, the savings alone make direct cremation a practical choice.

Online providers like After increase those savings by removing facility costs while offering 24/7 support and clear pricing.

After Offers You More Affordable Costs for Cremation in Florida 

After costs much less than traditional funeral homes for direct cremation. Our plans cover documents, delivery, and error protection.

Start by requesting General Price Lists from two or three providers. Compare them line by line. Funeral homes may lower prices if you question add-ons, but the process often takes hours.

If you have questions about cremation costs in Florida or want help comparing options, our team is available 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Direct Cremation Cost in Florida?

Direct cremation costs up to $2,777 in Florida. The average price is $1,683. After is the most affordable cremation service in Florida and includes transportation, permits, cremation, a temporary urn, and grief support.

What’s the Cheapest Cremation Option in Florida?

The cheapest cremation option in Florida is After’s Base plan for a direct cremation. 

Some people may also qualify for county indigent programs that offer free cremation for eligible families. Veterans benefits may cover $1,002 for non-service-connected deaths, or up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths.

How Long Does Cremation Take in Florida?

Most cremations take 7 to 10 days in Florida. This includes the 48-hour wait, permits, clearance, and processing. Expedited service may shorten this slightly.

Can I Scatter Remains Anywhere?

No, you cannot scatter remains anywhere. Florida allows scattering offshore, on private property with permission, or in approved park areas. Many public spaces restrict it.

How Many Death Certificates Do I Need?

Most families need 3 to 5 death certificates. After includes 1 or 2, depending on the plan. Extra copies cost extra through the state.