According to the Cremation Society of North America, almost half of U.S. funerals now include cremation. Changing views on religious traditions are partially responsible for the trend. Cremation is also very affordable and makes funeral planning simpler. For instance, families often choose cremation in Houston Tx when they need time to personalize arrangements.
Cremation Can Be Adapted to Most Belief Systems
Religion, and even the lack of one, has dramatically affected the cremation industry. Many faiths that prohibited cremation for centuries now accept it. In addition, millions of Americans’ belief systems have nothing to do with religion. That is why it is common for clients to choose cremation in Houston Tx when they want to arrange non-denominational funerals. In states like Washington and Nevada, which have diverse populations, almost 75% of residents choose cremation. Even in the deep South, where traditional religious beliefs are more common, about 30% of funerals include cremation. Some families even arrange for embalming, viewings, and church services, and then have the deceased cremated.
Funeral Costs Are Drastically Reduced
Cremation is also becoming more popular because it reduces final expenses. An average funeral that includes burial can cost as much as $11,000. Beyond essential funeral home services, arrangements often include cemetery plots, grave liners, and caskets. Cemetery plots in areas like Manhattan, where land is limited, have been known to cost well over $200,000. Headstones add even more expense. In contrast, a simple cremation followed by a celebration of life is easily arranged for $1,000 or less. It also costs much less to ship cremains than to transport bodies.
Families Can Easily Personalize Arrangements
Clients often choose cremation so they have more flexibility during funeral planning. It is possible for clients to make arrangements online, have the deceased cremated, and receive the ashes all within a few days. Families are then free to contact everyone they need to and take their time designing memorials. Many cremation providers also offer elegant urns, keepsake jewelry, registry books, memorial folders, and thank you cards that help clients create meaningful funerals.
Requests for cremation have increased over the last few decades partially due to changing belief systems. Many families choose cremation to reduce funeral expenses. Cremation also gives families and friends the time they need to personalize arrangements.
