Cremation is an increasingly popular option in Pennsylvania due to its affordability and flexibility compared to traditional burial. The cost of cremation services can vary depending on the type of cremation, location, and additional services you choose. Below is a breakdown of cremation costs in Pennsylvania, including direct cremation, cremation with services, and aquamation, which is not yet legal in the state, although legislation is pending in late 2024.
Direct Cremation Costs in Pennsylvania
Direct cremation is the most cost-effective option, as it involves no additional services such as a memorial or viewing ceremony. In Pennsylvania, direct cremation typically costs between $900 and $3,000, depending on the location and funeral home.
The price typically includes:
- Transportation of the body to the crematory
- A simple cremation container
- The cremation process itself
- Necessary permits and paperwork
In larger cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg, direct cremation tends to be on the higher end, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. In smaller towns or rural areas, such as Erie or Scranton, the costs are generally lower, starting around $900.
Cost of Cremation with Services
For families who want to have a more traditional funeral or memorial service, cremation with a viewing or ceremony is an option. This can significantly increase the overall cost, with prices typically ranging from $3,000 to $6,500.
Cremation with services often 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 memorial arrangements such as floral tributes, obituary announcements, or service programs
In cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, cremation with services tends to cost more, with prices up to $6,500. In smaller cities like Allentown or Scranton, prices are typically lower, starting around $3,000.
Regional Variations in Cremation Costs Across Pennsylvania
Cremation costs in Pennsylvania vary depending on the region. Below is a table that highlights 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | $1,500 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $6,500 |
| Pittsburgh | $1,200 | $2,800 | $3,800 | $6,000 |
| Harrisburg | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $5,800 |
| Erie | $900 | $2,200 | $3,200 | $5,500 |
| Scranton | $900 | $2,000 | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Allentown | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $5,800 |
| Ambler | $1,000 | $2,500 | $3,000 | $5,000 |
Aquamation: Not Yet Legal in Pennsylvania
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. This process uses water, heat, and an alkaline solution to naturally break down the body, leaving behind ashes. Aquamation is gaining popularity for its environmentally friendly approach.
However, aquamation is not yet legal in Pennsylvania for human remains. However a bill is working it was through the state legislature that could change that and make aquamation and human composting legal in Pennsylvannia.
Until it is legalized (likely in 2025), families seeking this option must look to other states where aquamation is permitted. Some pet cremation services in Pennsylvania do offer aquamation for animals, and growing interest may lead to future legislative changes.
Factors That Influence Cremation Costs in Pennsylvania
Several factors can affect the overall cost of cremation in Pennsylvania, including:
- Location: Cremation tends to be more expensive in major cities like Philadelphia compared to rural areas.
- Funeral Home or Provider: Prices vary between service providers, so it’s helpful to compare offerings.
- Additional Services: Choosing extras such as a memorial, special urns, or personalized services will increase the cost.
How to Save on Cremation Costs
If you’re looking to save on cremation costs, here are a few strategies:
- Preplanning: Many funeral homes offer discounted rates for pre-arranged cremation services.
- Compare Providers: Shopping around for quotes from different funeral homes can help you find the best price.
- Opt for Direct Cremation: Choosing direct cremation without additional services is the most affordable option.
Learn more: 50 Questions Answered About Cremation
Data sources:
The cremation cost information provided in this post comes from a combination of industry research, pricing data from local funeral homes, and national averages. We’ve gathered this information by looking at common price ranges from funeral home websites, surveys of cremation providers, and reports from associations that track the costs of end-of-life services.
If you’re looking for specific cremation costs in your area, it’s always a good idea to reach out to local funeral homes to get an exact quote. Prices can vary significantly depending on the location, the services offered, and the provider you choose.
