The cost of cremation in Phoenix, AZ, can vary wildly depending on the funeral service provider you choose, the type of cremation, and the additional services. We’ll explain how each of these factors impacts the cost and provide you with some tips for getting low-cost cremation in Phoenix, AZ, and still provide a meaningful and dignified end of life for your loved ones.

The Cost of Cremation in Phoenix, AZ

Costs can range from as low as $800 to nearly $8,000. While less expensive than a traditional funeral with burial, what you could spend has a wide range. Why? It starts with how you approach the process.

If you choose a direct cremation, your costs will be at the low end of the scale. A direct cremation can cost as little as $800 at some funeral homes, although the average is around $1,500 in the Phoenix area. With a direct cremation, there is no formal viewing or memorial ceremony. The body is cremated shortly after death. Families may choose to hold their own memorial at a later date.

Other options include a cremation with memorial or a traditional cremation. A cremation with memorial adds a funeral service at a funeral home or religious institution while a traditional cremation typically includes embalming, viewing in a casket, and a memorial service before cremation. The cost of cremation in Phoenix, AZ for a memorial cremation typically runs between $2,000 and $4,000 while a traditional cremation ranges between $5,000 and $8,000.

If you are looking for a low-cost cremation in Phoenix, AZ, choose direct cremation.

Tips for Honoring Your Love Ones when on a Budget

We also have some money-saving tips that can help you keep your costs low, such as:

• Host a memorial service at home or a local venue: Avoid renting expensive venues by holding the service at your home, a family member’s home, or a free community space.
• Create a DIY memorial display: Use photos, personal belongings, or sentimental items to craft a heartfelt display or slideshow.
• Opt for a digital memorial: Set up an online tribute page where family and friends can share stories, photos, and messages.
• Choose affordable urn options: Purchase an urn online or use a sentimental container.
• Scatter ashes in a meaningful location: Honor your loved one’s memory in a special place while avoiding burial costs.
• Plant a memorial garden or tree: Create a lasting tribute by planting flowers, trees, or a small garden in their honor.
• Ask for contributions instead of flowers: Encourage donations to a memorial fund or charity instead of expensive flower arrangements.
• Use free or low-cost keepsakes: Hand out simple, meaningful mementos like photo bookmarks or seed packets.
• Simplify the obituary: Post the obituary online or on social media instead of paying for a newspaper listing.
• Organize a potluck gathering: Ask attendees to bring dishes for a shared memorial meal instead of hiring a caterer.
• Explore group memorials: Consider communal services offered by some cremation providers as a budget-friendly option.
• Handwrite thank-you notes: Use simple, inexpensive stationery for heartfelt expressions of gratitude.
• Keep it intimate: Opt for a small, private gathering with close family and friends.
• Plan a personalized tribute event later: Hold a memorial on a significant date in the future to allow more time to plan and save.

If you’re thinking about scattering cremated remains, you should know that remains are sterile and pose no health threat, so there are few restrictions on where you can scatter them. Some cemeteries have designated scattering gardens, such as Phoenix Memorial Park & Mortuary, Mesa Cemetery, and Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.

You can also scatter remains on private property with permission or in state or local parks, although you will want to check with park administrators first for guidance. Scatterings at sea or in waterways are permitted, but you should check with local authorities first about any restrictions.

Get Free Cremation in Phoenix, Arizona

You can get free cremation in the Phoenix area when you donate a body to science. In Arizona, United Tissue Network is a nonprofit organization that coordinates whole body donations and placement with reputable medical science, research, and educational facilities. UTN pays for all of the costs for transporting the body of the deceased, placement, and cremation after research has been completed.

You can become a whole body donor in Phoenix by registering online. You can also talk with a Donor Coordinator to answer any of your questions by calling (877) 738-6111.