Cremation is a popular and affordable choice in New Hampshire, providing families with a flexible alternative to traditional burial. The cost of cremation services in New Hampshire can vary depending on location, type of service, and any additional offerings. Below is an overview of cremation costs in New Hampshire, covering direct cremation, cremation with services, and the legal status of aquamation.
Direct Cremation Costs in New Hampshire
Direct cremation is the most affordable option, as it excludes services like a viewing or memorial ceremony. In New Hampshire, direct cremation typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500, depending on the location and the service 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 such as Manchester and Nashua, direct cremation tends to be higher, ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. In smaller towns or rural areas like Concord or Portsmouth, direct cremation costs may start around $1,200.
Cremation with Services
Cremation with services offers a more traditional funeral experience, including a viewing or memorial ceremony, which increases the overall cost. In New Hampshire, cremation with services typically ranges from $4,000 to $7,500.
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 cities like Manchester and Nashua, cremation with services tends to be more expensive, closer to $7,500, while in smaller towns like Keene or Derry, prices may start around $4,000.
Regional Variations in Cremation Costs Across New Hampshire
Cremation costs in New Hampshire can vary depending on the region. Below is a table that highlights the typical price range for direct cremation and cremation with services across several cities in the state.
| City | Direct Cremation (Low) | Direct Cremation (High) | Cremation with Services (Low) | Cremation with Services (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,500 | $7,500 |
| Nashua | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,500 | $7,500 |
| Concord | $1,200 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $7,000 |
| Portsmouth | $1,200 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $7,000 |
| Keene | $1,200 | $2,800 | $3,800 | $6,500 |
| Derry | $1,200 | $2,800 | $3,800 | $6,500 |
Aquamation: Not Yet Legal in New Hampshire
Aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation that uses water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to naturally break down the body. While aquamation is gaining popularity in other states, it is not yet legal in New Hampshire. Families interested in this option may need to explore services in neighboring states where it is permitted.
Factors That Influence Cremation Costs in New Hampshire
Several factors can influence cremation costs in New Hampshire, including:
- Location: Cremation tends to be more expensive in larger cities like Manchester due to higher operational costs.
- Service Provider: Prices can vary depending on the funeral home or provider, so it’s essential to compare options.
- Additional Services: Choosing additional services like memorials, 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 New Hampshire:
- 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 budget-friendly option.
Sources
The cremation cost data in this post is sourced from:
- Funeral home websites and price lists in New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire.
- 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
