Losing a loved one is hard, and it can be overwhelming to think of what comes next. Families considering a cremation may not be aware that there are actually many types of cremation available today.

Not sure whether a cremation at After is the right path? Our team is here to guide you through your options with transparency, care, and zero pressure. You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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The 4 Main Types of Cremation

Each cremation type comes with its own costs, level of ceremony, and environmental impact. So how do you choose between these different types of cremation?

That’s what we’re here to help you with. This table breaks down the four most common cremation services so you can make the right choice:

1. Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is the simplest and most affordable option. The process takes place quickly, without embalming, a public viewing, or a formal service.

Families receive the remains in a basic container and decide later how to remember and honor the person. For many, it provides both financial relief and emotional breathing room. They can pause, plan, and gather when the time feels right.

Cost Overview

• Direct cremation with After starts at $995. The national average cost of cremation in the U.S. is in the range of $2,000.
• This option usually includes transportation, required permits, a cremation container, and dedicated support.
• Families may add extras like certified death certificates, upgraded urns, or delivery of ashes.

2. Traditional Cremation With a Funeral Service

Traditional cremation resembles a full funeral but ends with cremation instead of burial. It often includes embalming, a viewing, staff services, and a ceremony in a funeral home or place of worship.

Families choose this one when they want the comfort of ritual and the ability to gather in familiar ways, but without the long-term costs of a gravesite.

Cost Overview

• Traditional cremation usually is in the average range of $6,000, according to Funeralocity estimates.
• Costs depend on embalming, casket rental or purchase, and funeral home service fees.
• This option often includes professional staff, a viewing, and a ceremony before the cremation.

3. Memorial Cremation

Memorial cremation separates cremation from the ceremony. The cremation happens first, and the family later hosts a memorial.

The location can be at a funeral home, a place of residence, or even virtually. An approach like this gives families time and flexibility to create a gathering that feels personal and inclusive, especially when relatives live far apart.

Cost Overview

• The cost of a direct cremation averages at $2,000, while the memorial service costs might depend on the type of ceremony you choose.
• Expenses may include venue rental, staff support, or celebrant fees, alongside the cremation itself.
• Families can reduce costs by holding the memorial at home, in a park, or in a community space.

4. Water Cremation (Aquamation / Green Cremation)

Water cremation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation, uses water and alkali instead of flame. It produces remains that are similar to cremated remains.

Families often choose it for environmental reasons since it uses less energy and produces fewer carbon emissions. This type of cremation is only legal in some U.S. states, so accessibility may affect total cost.

Cost Overview

• Water cremation typically ranges from $1,295 to $3,995, depending on provider and location
• Costs are higher than traditional cremation because specialized equipment is expensive and there are limited facilities.

Which Type of Cremation Is Best?

There’s no “best” type of cremation. It depends on the constraints you face. Look one step ahead.

What will help six months from now: Having kept costs down, having a clear ceremony memory, or knowing you chose the lowest-impact method?

Consider your options:

• If you want to hold a memorial later so that family members can travel to be there, a direct cremation or memorial cremation gives you that freedom.
• If you need a shared moment of goodbye that includes a ritual and ceremony to provide closure, traditional cremation fits that structure.
• If sustainability matters and it’s legal where you live, water cremation lowers environmental impact and may feel more in line with your values.

For price clarity across types of cremation, review current ranges in the cremation cost guide and check local availability for water cremation.

Choosing the Right Type of Cremation

The first step to choosing the right type of cremation for you is to start with the non-negotiables:

• Is there an advance directive, or has the individual documented their wishes?
• Are there any religious requirements you need to fulfil? 
• What does your budget allow?
• Is there a constraint on timing for people to arrive?

These answers narrow cremation options fast. Once you have these answers, you can move into action steps:

• Ask providers which cremation services they perform on-site, typical timeframes, and whether water cremation is legal nearby.
• Ask for itemized GPLs. Compare line by line and remove anything you don’t need. If flexibility matters, compare direct cremation plus a later memorial against a packaged funeral.
• Ask about identification and chain-of-custody steps, pacemaker removal policies, weekend or expedite fees, and options to witness the start of cremation if that matters to your family.

After Offers Guidance Every Step of the Way

We hope this guide on types of funeral arrangements and types of cremation helps you plan the next steps with confidence during an emotionally difficult time.

At After, we specialize in direct cremation, the most affordable and widely available choice. Our packages start at $995, with no hidden fees.

Families who need help soon can learn about planning for an expected passing, while those preparing for the future can secure prepaid cremation to lock in today’s rates.

We also provide resources to help you compare cremation costs, explore affordable funeral services. If you have more questions, we have a team of care specialists that you can reach out to 24/7.

Call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which Type of Cremation Is the Least Expensive?

The least expensive type of cremation is direct cremation, which starts at about $995. It covers essentials without a service, making it the lowest-cost option.

Can You Have a Funeral Service Before Cremation?

You can have a funeral service before cremation by choosing traditional cremation. This option includes embalming, a viewing, and a service before the cremation takes place.

Is Aquamation Available in Every State?

Aquamation, or water cremation, is not available in every state. As of 2025, only select states allow it, and relatively few providers offer the service

Are All Cremation Types Accepted by All Religions?

Not all religions accept every type of cremation. Direct cremation is a more common service that most religions accept. Water cremation still lacks acceptance in some traditions.