Planning a burial in New Brunswick involves many decisions, from choosing the type of service to finding the right cemetery. Costs can vary depending on location, the type of burial, and any additional services you might need. Below, we’ll explore the average costs associated with both traditional and direct burials in some of New Brunswick’s major cities, as well as eco-friendly alternatives. For cremation costs in New Brunswick, click here.
Traditional Burial Costs in New Brunswick
Traditional burial includes a range of services: viewing or visitation, a formal ceremony, transportation, and the burial itself. Common expenses involve embalming, a casket, use of facilities, and securing a cemetery plot.
Here’s an overview of average traditional burial costs in New Brunswick:
- Fredericton: $8,000 to $12,000
- Moncton: $7,500 to $11,500
- Saint John: $8,200 to $12,200
- Miramichi: $7,800 to $11,800
- Bathurst: $7,200 to $11,000
These estimates often include various options for the ceremony, casket, and additional arrangements, which can influence the total cost.
Direct Burial Costs in New Brunswick
Direct burial is a simpler and more budget-friendly option. It typically involves basic services such as paperwork, a simple casket, transportation, and a burial plot. There is no formal ceremony or viewing, which helps reduce costs.
Here’s a look at the average direct burial costs:
- Fredericton: $2,500 to $4,000
- Moncton: $2,300 to $3,800
- Saint John: $2,700 to $4,200
- Miramichi: $2,400 to $3,900
- Bathurst: $2,200 to $3,700
Eco-Friendly Burial Options in New Brunswick
In recent years, there has been growing interest in eco-friendly or “green” burial options. These alternatives focus on reducing environmental impact by avoiding traditional practices like embalming or using synthetic materials. Eco-friendly burials prioritize natural decomposition and minimal ecological footprint.
Key Features of Eco-Friendly Burials
- Biodegradable Caskets or Shrouds: Instead of traditional caskets, eco-friendly burials use biodegradable materials like untreated wood, wicker, or natural fibers. In some cases, a simple cloth shroud may be used.
- No Embalming: Green burials typically forgo embalming chemicals, allowing for a more natural return to the earth.
- Natural Burial Sites: Specialized green burial grounds emphasize a natural setting with no permanent markers. Some cemeteries also offer designated sections for eco-friendly burials.
- Living Memorials: In some cases, families may choose to plant trees or other vegetation instead of traditional headstones, creating a living memorial that contributes to local ecosystems.
Estimated Costs of Eco-Friendly Burials in New Brunswick
Eco-friendly burials can be more affordable than traditional burials, though costs depend on the specifics. Here’s an estimate for green burials in New Brunswick:
- Fredericton: $3,000 to $6,500
- Moncton: $2,800 to $6,000
- Saint John: $3,200 to $6,800
- Miramichi: $2,900 to $6,200
- Bathurst: $2,500 to $5,800
These costs generally cover the basics like a biodegradable casket, transportation, and burial plot, but may vary depending on the cemetery and additional preferences.
Local Eco-Friendly Burial Sites in New Brunswick
If you are considering an eco-friendly burial, there are several local options in New Brunswick that support sustainable practices:
- Forest Hill Cemetery, Fredericton: Offers a dedicated section for green burials with minimal environmental impact.
- Fair Haven Memorial Gardens, Moncton: A hybrid cemetery that accommodates green burials within a traditional setting.
- Elmwood Cemetery, Moncton: Provides eco-friendly burial areas with natural markers like trees instead of conventional headstones.
- Saint John Natural Cemetery: A site focused solely on green burials, avoiding embalming chemicals and non-biodegradable caskets.
- Greenwood Cemetery, Shediac: Features an area for eco-friendly burials that prioritizes simple, biodegradable options.
Comparison of Burial Costs by City
Below is a summary of the average costs for traditional, direct, and eco-friendly burial services across New Brunswick:
| City | Traditional Burial (CAD) | Direct Burial (CAD) | Eco-Friendly Burial (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fredericton | $8,000 – $12,000 | $2,500 – $4,000 | $3,000 – $6,500 |
| Moncton | $7,500 – $11,500 | $2,300 – $3,800 | $2,800 – $6,000 |
| Saint John | $8,200 – $12,200 | $2,700 – $4,200 | $3,200 – $6,800 |
| Miramichi | $7,800 – $11,800 | $2,400 – $3,900 | $2,900 – $6,200 |
| Bathurst | $7,200 – $11,000 | $2,200 – $3,700 | $2,500 – $5,800 |
What Affects Burial Costs in New Brunswick?
Several factors can impact the total cost of a burial:
- Choice of Cemetery: The cost of a burial plot varies by location, with some cemeteries charging more for prime or scenic spots.
- Casket Selection: The type of casket can greatly influence the price, with choices ranging from basic models to premium materials.
- Grave Marker or Headstone: Prices depend on the material, size, and design of the marker you choose.
- Additional Services: Optional services like embalming, ceremony arrangements, obituary notices, and floral decorations can increase overall costs.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Choosing green burial practices can help reduce both environmental impact and costs by focusing on simpler, more natural choices.
Sources
- Information from local funeral homes in New Brunswick and cemetery management services.
- Data on eco-friendly burial options collected from the Green Burial Society of Canada.
