Cremation has become a popular option in Arizona due to its affordability and flexibility compared to traditional burial. The cost of cremation can vary based on several factors, including the type of service, location, and additional services you choose. This post outlines the different cremation options available in Arizona, including direct cremation, cremation with services, and aquamation, which is legal in the state.
Direct Cremation Costs in Arizona
Direct cremation is the most affordable cremation option, as it involves no funeral services or ceremonies. In Arizona, direct cremation typically costs between $800 and $2,500, depending on the location and funeral home.
Direct cremation generally includes:
- Transportation of the body to the crematory
- A simple cremation container
- The actual cremation process
- Required permits and paperwork
In larger cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, and Scottsdale, direct cremation tends to be more expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. In smaller cities or rural areas, like Flagstaff or Yuma, direct cremation costs can be more affordable, starting around $800.
Cremation with Services
For families that prefer a more traditional service, cremation with a viewing or memorial ceremony is an option. This type of service typically includes a funeral or memorial before or after the cremation, raising the overall cost. In Arizona, cremation with services usually ranges from $3,000 to $6,500.
Cremation with services typically includes:
- A funeral or memorial service at a chapel or funeral home
- The use of a rental or cremation casket
- Transportation of the body
- The cremation process itself
- Additional arrangements such as floral tributes, obituaries, or service programs
In cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale, cremation with services tends to cost more, closer to the $6,500 range. In smaller towns such as Prescott or Yuma, prices are typically lower, starting around $3,000.
Regional Variations in Cremation Costs Across Arizona
Cremation costs in Arizona vary depending on the city or region. Below is a table highlighting 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $6,500 |
| Tucson | $900 | $2,300 | $3,200 | $6,000 |
| Scottsdale | $1,200 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $6,500 |
| Flagstaff | $800 | $2,000 | $3,000 | $5,500 |
| Prescott | $850 | $2,200 | $3,200 | $5,500 |
| Yuma | $800 | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,800 |
Aquamation: A Legal Eco-Friendly Option in Arizona
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation. This process uses water, heat, and an alkaline solution to accelerate the natural decomposition of the body. Aquamation has a much lower environmental impact than traditional cremation and is legal in Arizona.
The cost of aquamation in Arizona typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the service provider and any additional services requested. Aquamation is growing in popularity for those who prefer a greener, more sustainable option for body disposition.
Aquamation costs generally include:
- The aquamation process itself
- Transportation of the body to the facility
- Processing of the remains into ashes
- Additional services such as memorials or viewings, if requested
Learn more about aquamation
Factors That Influence Cremation Costs in Arizona
Several factors can affect cremation costs in Arizona, including:
- Location: Cremation prices tend to be higher in metropolitan areas due to higher operational costs.
- Funeral Home or Service Provider: Costs vary between providers, with some offering more comprehensive packages.
- Additional Services: Opting for memorials, urns, or special services will increase the overall cost.
How to Save on Cremation Costs
Here are a few ways to keep cremation costs lower:
- Preplan: Many funeral homes offer discounts for prearranged cremation services.
- Compare Providers: Get quotes from different funeral homes or service providers to find the best price.
- Opt for Direct Cremation: Choosing direct cremation without additional services can save you money.
Learn more: 50 questions answered about cremation
