Cremation is a popular and affordable option in Wisconsin, offering flexibility and a cost-effective alternative to traditional burial. The cost of cremation services can vary depending on the location, type of service, and any additional offerings. Below is an overview of cremation costs in Wisconsin, covering direct cremation, cremation with services, and the legal status of aquamation.
Direct Cremation Costs in Wisconsin
Direct cremation is the most affordable option, as it excludes services like a viewing or memorial ceremony. In Wisconsin, direct cremation typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500, 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 Milwaukee and Madison, direct cremation tends to cost more, ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. In smaller towns or rural areas, such as Green Bay or Appleton, direct cremation costs may be more affordable, starting 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 Wisconsin, 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 Milwaukee and Madison, cremation with services tends to be on the higher end, closer to $7,500, while in smaller towns like Oshkosh or Eau Claire, prices may start around $4,000.
Regional Variations in Cremation Costs Across Wisconsin
Cremation costs in Wisconsin can vary depending on the region. Below is a table highlighting 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,500 | $7,500 |
| Madison | $1,500 | $3,500 | $4,500 | $7,500 |
| Green Bay | $1,200 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $7,000 |
| Appleton | $1,200 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $7,000 |
| Oshkosh | $1,200 | $2,800 | $3,800 | $6,500 |
| Eau Claire | $1,200 | $2,800 | $3,800 | $6,500 |
Aquamation: Legal in Wisconsin
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. Aquamation is legal in Wisconsin and is an option for those looking for a more sustainable approach.
The cost of aquamation in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin
Several factors can influence cremation costs in Wisconsin, including:
- Location: Cremation tends to be more expensive in larger cities like Milwaukee 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: 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 Wisconsin:
- 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 choice.
Sources
The cremation cost data in this post is sourced from:
- Funeral home websites and price lists in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin.
- 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
