Cremation is the preferred disposition choice in Alberta, with around 65% of the population choosing a cremation for their final disposition.  Cremation can be considered a more environmentally-friendly alternative to burial, and of course, cremation can also cost significantly less than traditional burial services.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Alberta?

The cost of a cremation can vary, depending on what cremation services provider you opt for, what kind of cremation services you choose and where in Alberta you live.

In the metro areas of Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer you can expect to arrange a simple, direct cremation for between $1,095 and $1,295.  Whereas in the more rural areas of Alberta you will find it difficult to arrange a direct cremation for this price.

Cremation Services Providers in Alberta

As cremation is such a popular choice for Canadians, most funeral homes in Alberta also offer cremation services.  Some have their own crematorium and others will use the services of a local crematorium.  Either way, you can rest assured that your loved one will be handled with the greatest care and respect, and strict cremation regulations are adhered to.  The cost of a cremation can be determined by whether the funeral services provider operates their own crematorium, so this is something you may wish to check.

Cremation with a service in Alberta

A cremation with a service involves a funeral service being held (at the funeral home or local church) prior to the cremation being performed.  It is possible to rent a casket for this purpose, as a casket is not required for cremation, so this can help to keep the overall funeral cost down.  The average cost for a cremation with a service in Alberta can range between $2,800 and $3,800.  The total cost will depend largely upon the ancillary services and the size of the room required for the funeral/chapel service.

Low-Cost Direct Cremation Services in Alberta

If you are opting for simple cremation services in Alberta, then a direct cremation may be for you.  This is a cremation without any kind of service.  The funeral home collects the deceased, conduct the cremation and return the cremated remains directly to the family.  The family can, of course, arrange their own memorial service with the ashes as and when they please.  The average cost of a basic cremation in Alberta is between $1,095 and $1,295.

Saving money on funeral costs in Alberta

Knowing your rights as a funeral consumer, and informing yourself of the options available to you, are key ways to stay in control of funeral costs.  The funeral industry is not the ‘nicest’ of industries, and unfortunately, most of us only come into contact with this industry at a time of distress.  We put our complete trust in the funeral arranger and often feel it is inappropriate to ask about costs.   In many ways, this is why families now appreciate being able to conduct funeral cost comparisons online, without having to deal with numerous phone calls to funeral homes.

It IS possible to arrange a very dignified and inexpensive funeral in Alberta.  Simple, direct cremation is one way to dramatically reduce your funeral costs, but a traditional funeral service can also be arranged for under $3,000 if you select a low-cost funeral services provider and be sensible in your selection of a casket and ancillary products/services.

DFS Memorials is a network of family-owned funeral homes throughout Alberta who all guarantee to offer affordable funeral and cremation services.  If you need to save money on a funeral service, call your nearest DFS Memorials provider to arrange a low-cost cremation service.

If you need any assistance with planning a funeral or cremation in Alberta, you can contact a funeral advisor at DFS Memorials and we will do our utmost to assist you with your needs.

[Sara Marsden] Google+

Simple cremation service available throughout Rocky View County, Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, Crossfield, Irricana, Alberta Capital Region, Greater Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc, St. Albert, Spruce Grove, Leduc County, Parkland County, Sturgeon County, Strathcona County and Red Deer County.