Cremation is a widely chosen option in Illinois due to its affordability and flexibility compared to traditional burial. The cost of cremation services in Illinois can vary based on location, type of service, and additional offerings. Below is an overview of cremation costs in Illinois, including direct cremation, cremation with services, and the status of aquamation.
Direct Cremation Costs in Illinois
Direct cremation is the most affordable cremation option, as it excludes services like a viewing or memorial ceremony. In Illinois, direct cremation typically costs between $1,000 and $4,000, depending on the location and provider.
Direct cremation generally includes:
- Transportation of the body to the crematory
- A simple cremation container
- The cremation process itself
- Required permits and paperwork
In larger cities like Chicago, Aurora, and Naperville, direct cremation tends to cost more, with prices ranging from $1,800 to $4,000. In smaller towns and rural areas, such as Rockford or Peoria, direct cremation costs may be more affordable, starting around $1,000.
Cremation with Services
Cremation with services offers a more traditional funeral experience, including a viewing or memorial ceremony, which increases the overall cost. In Illinois, cremation with services typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000.
Cremation with services usually includes:
- A viewing or memorial service at a funeral home or chapel
- The use of a rental or cremation casket
- Transportation of the body
- The cremation process
- Additional services such as flowers, obituaries, or service programs
In larger cities like Chicago, cremation with services can cost closer to $8,000 due to higher operational costs, while in smaller areas like Springfield or Champaign, prices may start around $4,000.
Regional Variations in Cremation Costs Across Illinois
Cremation costs in Illinois vary by region. Below is a table showing the typical price range for direct cremation and cremation with services in several cities across the state.
| City | Direct Cremation (Low) | Direct Cremation (High) | Cremation with Services (Low) | Cremation with Services (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $1,800 | $4,000 | $4,500 | $8,000 |
| Aurora | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,000 | $7,500 |
| Naperville | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,000 | $7,500 |
| Rockford | $1,200 | $3,000 | $3,800 | $6,500 |
| Peoria | $1,000 | $2,800 | $3,500 | $6,000 |
| Springfield | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $6,000 |
| Champaign | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $6,000 |
Aquamation: Legal in Illinois
Aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation that uses water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to break down the body into ashes. Aquamation is legal in Illinois and is becoming a popular choice for families looking for a more sustainable option.
The cost of aquamation in Illinois typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the provider and any additional services requested.
Aquamation costs generally include:
- The aquamation process itself
- Transportation of the body to the facility
- Processing of the remains into ashes
- Optional memorial or viewing services
Factors That Influence Cremation Costs in Illinois
Several factors can influence cremation costs in Illinois, including:
- Location: Cremation services in larger cities like Chicago tend to be more expensive due to higher operational costs.
- Service Provider: Prices vary depending on the funeral home or service provider, so it’s important to compare options.
- Additional Services: Opting for memorial services, custom urns, or floral arrangements can increase the overall cost.
How to Save on Cremation Costs
Here are a few strategies to help reduce cremation costs in Illinois:
- Preplan your services: Many funeral homes offer discounted rates for pre-arranged cremation services.
- Compare providers: Shopping around and getting quotes from multiple providers can help you find the most affordable option.
- Opt for direct cremation: Choosing direct cremation without additional services is the most cost-effective choice.
Sources
The cremation cost data in this post is sourced from:
- Funeral home websites and price lists in Illinois, offering price comparisons across cities.
- National funeral industry reports that track regional pricing trends.
- Survey data from cremation service providers and funeral homes offering services in Illinois.
- State-specific funeral directories, which provide insights into local pricing variations.
For a broader comparison of cremation costs across the U.S., visit this cremation cost comparison by U.S. state.
Learn more: 50 Questions Answered About Cremation
