After cremation, one of the key decisions families face is what to do with their loved one’s ashes. While placing ashes in a cemetery is a traditional option, the costs can vary widely based on the location and type of interment chosen. Additionally, many families wonder if there are more affordable alternatives that still allow them to honor their loved one. This guide breaks down the costs associated with placing ashes in a cemetery and explores more budget-friendly options.
The Cost of Putting Ashes in a Cemetery in Canada
Although cremation is typically more affordable than a full-body burial, placing ashes in a Canadian cemetery still involves several costs. These expenses can vary depending on the specific city, cemetery, and type of service chosen.
For the U.S., see Cost to put ashes in US cemetery.
Want an alternative to placing ashes in a cemetary? See: What can I do with cremation ashes?
1. Columbarium Niches: A Permanent Resting Place
A columbarium is a structure that holds small compartments, known as niches, where urns containing ashes are placed. It is a popular option for families who want a secure and above-ground resting place for their loved one’s remains.
| City | Columbarium Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Calgary, AB | $1,800 – $5,500 |
| Charlottetown, PEI | $1,500 – $4,200 |
| Edmonton, AB | $1,800 – $5,000 |
| Fredericton, NB | $1,600 – $4,500 |
| Halifax, NS | $1,800 – $5,000 |
| Montreal, QC | $2,200 – $6,000 |
| Ottawa, ON | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Quebec City, QC | $2,000 – $5,500 |
| Regina, SK | $1,600 – $4,800 |
| St. John’s, NL | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Toronto, ON | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Vancouver, BC | $2,500 – $7,500 |
| Victoria, BC | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| Winnipeg, MB | $1,500 – $4,500 |
The cost information provided in this post comes from a combination of industry research, pricing data from local funeral homes, and national averages. We’ve gathered this information by looking at common price ranges from funeral home websites, surveys of cremation providers, and reports from associations that track the costs of end-of-life services.
If you’re looking for specific costs in your area, it’s always a good idea to reach out to local funeral homes or cemeteries to get an exact quote. Prices can vary significantly depending on the location, the services offered, and the provider you choose.
Additional Costs:
- Urn: The purchase of an urn is required, with prices ranging from $100 to over $1,000 depending on material and design.
- Engraving: Engraving the columbarium niche typically costs between $200 and $500.
2. Burying Ashes in a Grave: A Blend of Tradition and Cremation
For those who prefer a more traditional burial option, ashes can be interred in a smaller burial plot within a cemetery. This allows for a headstone or grave marker, creating a lasting memorial.
| City | Burying in Grave Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Calgary, AB | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| Charlottetown, PEI | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Edmonton, AB | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Fredericton, NB | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Halifax, NS | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Montreal, QC | $3,500 – $7,000 |
| Ottawa, ON | $3,200 – $7,500 |
| Quebec City, QC | $3,000 – $6,500 |
| Regina, SK | $2,700 – $6,000 |
| St. John’s, NL | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Toronto, ON | $3,000 – $7,500 |
| Vancouver, BC | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Victoria, BC | $3,500 – $7,500 |
| Winnipeg, MB | $2,800 – $6,000 |
Additional Costs:
- Urn Vault: Many cemeteries require an urn vault to protect the urn underground, which can cost between $200 and $1,000.
- Headstone: Headstones or grave markers typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on customization and materials.
3. Scattering Ashes in a Memorial Garden: A Peaceful Option
Some cemeteries offer designated memorial gardens where ashes can be scattered. This option provides a serene and natural way to honor a loved one’s memory without the need for a physical structure like a grave or columbarium.
| City | Scattering in Memorial Garden Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Calgary, AB | $400 – $1,200 |
| Charlottetown, PEI | $300 – $1,000 |
| Edmonton, AB | $400 – $1,200 |
| Fredericton, NB | $300 – $1,000 |
| Halifax, NS | $400 – $1,200 |
| Montreal, QC | $500 – $1,500 |
| Ottawa, ON | $500 – $1,500 |
| Quebec City, QC | $500 – $1,500 |
| Regina, SK | $350 – $1,000 |
| St. John’s, NL | $300 – $1,000 |
| Toronto, ON | $500 – $1,500 |
| Vancouver, BC | $600 – $1,800 |
| Victoria, BC | $500 – $1,700 |
| Winnipeg, MB | $300 – $1,000 |
Additional Costs:
- Commemorative Plaque: Memorial plaques in scattering gardens usually cost between $200 and $1,000.
- Maintenance Fees: Some cemeteries charge fees to maintain the garden, which typically range from $100 to $500.
Average Cost by Province
Here is a summary of average costs by province for columbarium niches, burial plots, and scattering in memorial gardens.
| Province | Columbarium (CAD) | Bury in Grave (CAD) | Scattering in Memorial Garden (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $2,200 – $6,500 | $3,500 – $7,500 | $500 – $1,500 |
| British Columbia | $2,500 – $7,500 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $600 – $1,800 |
| Alberta | $1,800 – $5,500 | $3,200 – $6,500 | $400 – $1,200 |
| Quebec | $2,000 – $6,000 | $3,200 – $7,000 | $500 – $1,500 |
| Manitoba | $1,500 – $4,500 | $2,800 – $6,000 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Nova Scotia | $1,800 – $5,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $400 – $1,200 |
| Saskatchewan | $1,600 – $4,800 | $2,700 – $6,000 | $350 – $1,000 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $1,500 – $4,000 | $2,500 – $5,500 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Prince Edward Island | $1,500 – $4,200 | $2,500 – $5,000 | $300 – $1,000 |
More Affordable Alternatives to a Cemetery
If you are concerned about the costs of placing ashes in a cemetery, there are several affordable alternatives that still allow you to create a meaningful memorial.
1. Keep Ashes at Home
Many families choose to keep the ashes of their loved one at home, either permanently or until they decide on a more permanent resting place. All that is required is an urn, which typically costs between $100 and $1,000, depending on the design.
2. Scattering Ashes in Nature
Scattering ashes in a favorite location, such as a park, beach, or mountain, can be a deeply personal and cost-effective option. Be sure to check local regulations, as some public spaces may require permission or permits.
- Canada: Scattering ashes in public spaces like parks, beaches, or rivers is generally allowed, though it’s important to check local regulations. Scattering in Canadian waters is legal, but it’s recommended to do so at least 3 nautical miles from shore.
- U.S.: In the U.S., scattering ashes is legal in many public areas, but state regulations vary. National parks often require a permit, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that ashes be scattered at least 3 nautical miles from shore when in the ocean.
3. Dividing Ashes Among Family Members
Dividing the ashes allows each family member to keep a part of their loved one close. Small keepsake urns or cremation jewelry are commonly used for this purpose, with prices ranging from $50 to $300 for keepsakes and $100 to $500 for jewelry.
4. Memorial Jewelry and Art
Turning ashes into memorial jewelry or incorporating them into artwork is a unique way to create a lasting memory. Memorial jewelry, such as diamonds or glass keepsakes, ranges from $500 to over $10,000 depending on the item and design.
5. Bury Ashes on Private Property
If you own land or have access to private property, burying ashes there can be a meaningful and cost-effective option. It is important to check local laws to ensure it’s legal to bury ashes on private property in your area.
Do You Have to Put Ashes in a Cemetery?
No, placing ashes in a cemetery is not required. Many families choose other options such as keeping the ashes at home, scattering them in nature, or creating custom memorials. Ultimately, the choice of how to handle ashes after cremation depends on personal preferences, religious beliefs, and budget.
A Deeply Personal Choice
Deciding what to do with a loved one’s ashes is a deeply personal decision. Cemeteries provide a secure and permanent resting place, but they come with costs that vary depending on location and services. If affordability is a concern, more budget-friendly options like keeping ashes at home, scattering them, or creating custom memorials can provide a meaningful alternative without the expense of a cemetery.
