Cremation with a memorial or viewing
Same disposition as direct cremation, with time and space for people to gather.
Families sometimes want a viewing, a funeral ceremony, or a memorial with the urn present. Those services use staff and rooms. If there is a public viewing, the firm may also charge for preparation of the body.
The cremation itself is not what triples the price. The extra lines are facilities, ceremony, printed programs, and (when chosen) embalming or dressing for a viewing.
Typical U.S. midpoint (not a quote)
NFDA’s 2023 member GPL study reported a national median of $6,280 for a funeral with viewing and cremation (including an alternative container and urn in that survey total). Direct cremation in the same study was $2,750. Use those figures only as a scale. The dollar ranges on this site are typical local estimates for education. They are not a quote from a specific firm and not a contract.
Lines to ask for on the GPL
- Basic services fee
- Transfer of remains
- Embalming or other preparation (only if you want a viewing that requires it)
- Use of facilities and staff for viewing
- Use of facilities and staff for a ceremony
- Cremation fee, alternative container, and urn
You have the right to buy only the goods and services you want. You do not have to accept a package that includes items you decline. Ask the licensed provider for an itemized General Price List before you buy. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, you have a right to that list.
Embalming is not required by law for every death. Many homes require it for a public viewing as a house policy. Ask whether a private family goodbye is available without embalming, or whether refrigeration is an option.
Cremation by ZIP is not a funeral home, crematory, or cemetery. We do not cremate, bury, or arrange services.