How much does cremation cost without services? You might be looking for answers after a sudden loss, or while planning ahead to avoid high funeral bills.

In 2025, direct cremation is one of the most common low-cost cremation options. It skips the expenses for embalming, viewings, and ceremonies that you may not need.

This guide shows what you can expect to pay and how to find providers options during an already difficult time.

Not sure whether cremation or a funeral is the right choice? Our team at After can guide you through your options with clarity, compassion, and zero pressure.

Call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170 or visit our pricing page to see transparent, all-inclusive direct cremation packages.

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Why Would People Choose Cremation Without Services?

Direct cremation is when a provider completes the cremation without arranging a viewing, visitation, or memorial service. It covers the essentials like transportation, required paperwork, and the cremation, while you plan any gathering or ceremony separately.

Direct cremation differs from cremation with a memorial or viewing. You skip embalming, viewing space rentals, floral arrangements, and added staff time. You keep the process simple and can hold a private remembrance later, wherever and whenever you choose.

Families choose this option for many reasons:

• They want to avoid the high costs associated with traditional funerals.
• They prefer to keep arrangements simple and private.
• They need more time to plan a memorial that feels personal.
• Their loved one expressed a wish for a minimal approach.

It is often the most affordable cremation choice. You only pay for the essentials, which lets you focus on honoring your loved one without the added cost or pressure of traditional services.

How Much Does Cremation Without Services Cost in 2025?

In 2025, the national average for a direct cremation costs $2,202. This price covers the essentials only: transportation, permits, and the cremation itself. It does not include embalming, a viewing, or a memorial service.

By comparison, a full-service cremation that includes embalming, a viewing, a funeral service, and a cremation casket costs an average of $6,250 nationwide. Prices range greatly depending on your location.

You can save thousands by choosing direct cremation. It will still allow you to plan a meaningful memorial later.

Cost Factors

• Location: Urban providers often charge more than rural ones.
  
• Provider type: Cremation societies and online providers tend to be less expensive than traditional funeral homes.
  
• Package details: Some packages include extras like death certificates or delivery of ashes.
  
• Timing: Same-day or urgent requests may add to the cost.

Regional Cost Examples for Direct Cremation

Costs vary widely by state. In North Dakota, the average is over $3,100. In Arizona, it is under $1,500. To find the best value, compare providers in your area and review exactly what they include.

Average cremation cost without funeral:

Why Do Cremation Prices Vary?

Cremation prices change based on location, provider type, and how they structure the costs. Urban providers often charge more because operating expenses like staffing, facility rental, and permits are higher in cities.

Rural providers may have lower prices, but they can add travel fees if they must drive long distances for pickup or delivery.

The type of provider also matters. Traditional funeral homes usually have higher overhead and often bundle cremation with additional services. Cremation societies and online-first providers focus only on cremation, which can make their pricing lower.

How the provider presents costs is another factor. Bundled packages include everything for a single price. This makes it easier to understand the total cost. Itemized pricing lists each service separately, which can help you pay only for what you need.

What’s Included in a Direct Cremation Package?

A direct cremation package covers the essential steps needed to complete the cremation. The provider arranges transportation of your loved one from the place of passing to the crematory.

They prepare and file all necessary paperwork and obtain the required permits. The staff conduct the cremation according to local laws and industry standards. After the process, they place the remains in a basic temporary container or box. They usually include this at no extra cost.

What’s Not Included?

Some items are not part of a standard direct cremation package and may require additional payment.

• Certified death certificates: Most providers charge per copy, and costs vary by state.
  
  
• Upgraded urns or keepsakes: You’ll usually have to purchase decorative urns, jewelry, or keepsake boxes separately.
  
  
• Witness cremation: Some crematories allow family members to be present for part of the process, which can add to the price.
  
  
• Extended transportation: Pickup or delivery outside the provider’s standard mileage radius often comes with extra fees.
  
  
• Additional services: Viewings, memorial events, or other ceremonial arrangements are not included in direct cremation pricing.

Direct Cremation vs. Cremation With Services

Direct cremation and cremation with services both end with cremation, but the process and cost differ. Direct cremation is the simplest option.

Cremation with services includes additional elements like embalming, a viewing, and a staffed ceremony. These additions increase the price.

Pros and Cons of Cremation Without Services

Pros

• Keeps costs low: Direct cremation is the most affordable option. Families can use the savings for a memorial, travel, or other meaningful expenses.
  
  
• Gives flexibility for a memorial: You can hold a service weeks or months later, allowing time to gather loved ones, choose a location, and plan something personal.
  
  
• Reduces logistical stress: The provider handles only the essentials. This includes transportation, paperwork, and cremation. That way, you face fewer decisions and deadlines during a difficult time.

Cons

• No on-site gathering or viewing: The provider does not arrange a viewing or public gathering, which may be important for some families’ grieving process.
  
  
• Fewer ceremonial elements: You must plan any memorial, religious ritual, or tribute separately, which can require more coordination from the family.

How to Find Affordable Cremation Providers

Finding an affordable cremation provider starts with knowing where to look and what to ask. Start by comparing funeral homes with cremation-only companies. Funeral homes often package cremation with other services, which can raise the price.

Cremation-only companies, especially online-first providers, focus on the essentials, which can keep costs lower.

Always request an itemized price list. Under Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rules, providers must give you a written breakdown of costs if you ask. This helps you see exactly what they include so you avoid paying for services you don’t need.

Check reviews and verify licenses before making a decision. Online reviews can give insight into a provider’s reliability and compassion. State or local licensing boards can confirm they meet all legal requirements.

If you want to secure today’s prices for the future, consider prepaid cremation. This option lets you lock in the cost now and avoid potential price increases later. Prepaid plans can be helpful for both long-term planning and for people entering hospice care.

Get an Affordable Direct Cremation With After

After is one option for families looking for low-cost cremation options. We offer direct cremation packages starting at $995, with clear inclusions and no hidden fees. 

Our packages cover transportation, permits, the cremation itself, and a temporary urn, with upgrades available for delivery, additional death certificates, and memorial keepsakes.

Payment plans are available through LilyPay, which also offers crowdfunding support for families. To know how much cremation costs without services, you can view After’s cremation packages and pricing here or call 1-844-717-5170 for immediate assistance 24/7.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Direct Cremation Cost in 2025?

Direct cremation in 2025 costs between $1,300 and $3,200, depending on which state you’re in. The national average is about $2,300. This price includes transportation, required permits, and the cremation itself. The exact cost depends on your location, the provider, and any extras you choose.

Is Cremation Without Services Legal Everywhere?

Cremation without services is legal in every U.S. state. But each state has its own rules for paperwork, permits, and waiting periods. Most states require a signed cremation authorization form and confirmation of the legal next of kin before the process can begin.

What’s the Most Expensive Cremation Process?

The most expensive cremation process is a full-service cremation, which includes embalming, a viewing, a staffed ceremony, and often a cremation casket. The national average for full-service cremation in 2025 is about $6,250.

Can I Still Have a Memorial if I Choose Direct Cremation?

You can still have a memorial if you choose direct cremation. Many families hold services days, weeks, or even months later at a location that feels meaningful. This flexibility allows more time to plan a personal tribute without the cost and time pressure of a same-day event.

How Long Does Direct Cremation Take?

Direct cremation usually takes 3 to 7 days from the time the provider receives all necessary paperwork and permits. Factors like state-mandated waiting periods, local processing times per facility, weekends, and holidays can extend the timeline.

Does Insurance Cover Cremation Costs?

Insurance can cover cremation costs if the deceased had a life insurance policy or a final expense policy. You can use the policy payout to pay the provider directly or to reimburse the family after payment. Coverage details depend on the policy terms.

Is Prepaid Cremation a Good Idea?

Prepaid cremation can be a good idea if you want to lock in today’s prices and ease the financial and planning burden on your family. It works well for both long-term arrangements and for people entering hospice care. Make sure you understand what’s included and what happens if you move to another state.