This simple guide to cremation services and the average cost of a cremation in Arlington will help families seeking an affordable cremation option. Whether you are dealing with an immediate need or planning ahead to manage funeral expenses for your family, we are here to help guide you.
Cremation Packages & Costs in Arlington, VA
The first thing to clarify is that quoting an ‘average’ cost for cremation should really take into account exactly what type of cremation service is being considered. All funeral homes and crematories have a general price list that lists their services.
In compliance with the FTC’s funeral rule, they must provide you with pricing information, either by phone or in person. Many funeral homes now package basic services together into cremation packages to make it easier for a family to select a service and understand the complete cost.
What you need to understand is that the cost of cremation can vary in price between different funeral homes in Northern Virginia for the exact same service. There are 3 main types of cremation services:
- A cremation with a service/ceremony (which is very similar to a traditional funeral service) is held with the deceased present, and the cremation is performed afterward.
- A cremation with a memorial service is one in which the cremation is performed before the service. The memorial service is held with (or without) the cremated remains present or as part of an ash scattering ceremony.
- A direct cremation, sometimes referred to as an immediate cremation. This is where the deceased is cremated, and no services are conducted by the funeral home.
Direct cremation services in Arlington, VA
There are several cremation providers offering direct cremation in Arlington and Northern Virginia. The cost of a direct cremation can vary by thousands of dollars, so it is important to check around and compare prices before committing.
Generally, a direct cremation should include everything needed to collect the deceased, prepare the paperwork, provide a cremation container, cover the crematory fee, and return the cremated remains in a temporary urn.
Cash advances, such as the death certificate and permits, are not always included in a quoted direct cremation price – so be sure to check this!
How do cremation providers compare in Arlington?
We conducted a survey of funeral service providers in the Arlington area who all offered ‘affordable’ cremation services.
We hope this information can assist families with making informed decisions about purchasing funeral services.
How do I choose a cremation provider in Arlington, VA?
It can help to outline your specific needs. What type of cremation service do you require? Do you wish to have a service or a short private viewing? If you are just seeking out the most inexpensive option, a direct cremation provider does not have to be a local company. Ensure you are dealing with a reputable funeral home with a physical location. Many cremation societies can appear to be offering discounted services, but this is not always the case. For example, Service Corporation International (SCI) now owns the Cremation Society of Virginia.
How can you save money by arranging a cremation?
A cremation will save you at least half of the costs of a traditional funeral if not more. If you opt for a direct cremation, you can conduct your own memorial services, which can save you even more money. No casket is required for a cremation. All Virginia law stipulates is that a ‘rigid, combustible container’ be used for encasing the body during cremation.
Even if you decide to hold a visitation or service prior to a cremation, it is possible to use a rental casket. Just be aware that some funeral homes can charge $500-$800 just to rent a casket! Eliminating the need for a casket, and expensive cemetery plots, can mean that a cremation is a much cheaper alternative.
Low-cost cremation in Arlington
If you are looking for a low-cost cremation option, direct cremation is your best option. The DFS Memorials provider for Arlington serves all of Northern Virginia and offers an extremely competitive price for a complete service.
DFS Memorials Northern Virginia – Call (571) 506-4464
Direct Cremation $1,395
Is there any help towards cremation costs in Arlington?
If you qualify, you can claim a $255 death benefit from Social Security. Each state and county has its own budget for indigent funerals, although, in many areas, this is now being cut. Financial assistance for cremation can sometimes be obtained from union groups, faith organizations, or charities. To inquire about any public aid for cremation costs, you need to contact your local county Social Services or Human Services.
Serving families in Alexandria, Arlington, Chantilly, Dale City, Fairfax, Falls Church, Herndon, Leesburg, Manassas, Vienna, Warrenton, Woodbridge, and throughout Arlington, Caroline, Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Greene, King George, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford and Warren Counties.
| Provider | Direct cremation price |
| Murphy Funeral Home | $3,800 |
| Everly Funeral Homes | $2,495 |
| Pierce-Price Funeral Home | $1,995 |
| Advent Funeral & Cremation Services | $1,995 |
| Funeral Choices | $1,825 |
| Northern Virginia Burial & Cremation Society | $1,470 |
| Going Home Cremation Service | $1,395 |
| DFS Memorials Arlington | $1,395 |
Sara Marsden-Ille is a writer and researcher specialising in the death care industry. With more than 15 years covering end-of-life services, funeral trends, and consumer funeral planning, she writes for DFS Memorials and US Funerals Online to help families make informed decisions.
