Cremation vs Burial: Which Option Is Right for You?

Updated on August 1, 2019

Explore cremation vs burial with our guide so that you can make an informed decision and find out which option is right for you.

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Are you unsure if burial or cremation is right for you or a loved one? Do you need to know which option is more feasible for your situation? 

The rites and traditions for death vary from culture to culture. In the U.S. there is a split between cremation vs burial. 

If you don’t know which to choose, keep reading for the facts you need to know. 

Cremation vs Burial 

Both cremation and burial have different costs, legalities, and traditions. It’s important that you weigh every option before making a choice. Here are the main cremation vs burial pros and cons. 

Cremation Pros 

The cost of cremation vs burial is important to consider when making your choice. 

Cremation is widely regarded as a cheaper option than a burial. Most states offer direct cremation as a cost that is on average thousands less than a full burial service. However, that price can fluctuate by a lot state to state.  

Furthermore, cremation’s result is portable. This helps people keep their loved ones around for years to come. 

Cremation Cons 

Cremation conflicts with many U.S. traditions and religious values. That is, your religion might not allow for cremation or you may find it personally offensive. 

Moreover, cremation can cause a disconnect between relatives and the one they love. You should always explore many funeral homes to find your best cremation option. 

Burial Pros 

Burials are the most common service after death. They are traditional and give grieving members of a family a sense of commune. 

Funerals can, if still possible, keep a loved one’s body safe until it’s buried. This is sometimes better for folks that feel uncomfortable with the cremation process. 

Lastly, the rates for burials are easy to track. They can fluctuate, but most funeral homes offer many types of financial packages to make the service easier. 

Burial Cons

Burial tends to be more expensive than cremation. The price for a casket and the service alone will cost you several thousand dollars on average. 

Moreover, the burial process can take more time to complete than you have available. From transport of the body, plotting the grave, and preparation it can take days to weeks. The timeframe often depends on the amount of money you can spare and the recency of death. 

Change Your Outlook

Whether you’ve lost a family, friends, or a partner, a loss is never easy. The best thing you can do is make a choice that makes sense at the time. If you are having a hard time choosing between cremation vs burial, you’re not the only one. 

It’s good to browse funeral homes in your local area and in your state before moving forward. This process might not make grieving any easier, but it will help you in the long run. 

Life, death, and old age run through the entire world. However, it’s always possible to experience a better life, no matter your situation, with the help of a better outlook. 

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