Did you know that according to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), by 2040, opting for cremation will increase close to 80%? Cremation is used significantly more than a traditional burial and has become one of the most popular methods of final disposition when determining cremation vs burial. That may be because of the affordable cost of cremation.
In addition to being a more affordable option than burial, cremation is also a simpler process with fewer regulations than burial. With so many benefits and few drawbacks, it’s no wonder that the popularity of cremation continues to rise. On the other hand, most of the time when a traditional burial is used, it’s more often than not because of personal beliefs or a family tradition.
When it comes to both options, how do you decide between the two? Here’s everything you need to know about cremation vs burial.
What Does Cremation Entail?
Cremation is a process in which the body goes into a cremation chamber. In that chamber, the body is run through high temperatures of heat which help to get rid of organic matter. This is why the cremation option after death is cheaper and also better for the environment.
It also takes less time (creating less stress and burden on loved ones). A few of the pros of this method are;
- More environmentally acceptable
- With ashes, you can spread a loved one’s ashes anywhere
- You aren’t restricted to a cemetery
What Does a Traditional Burial Involve?
A traditional burial involves caring for the body after death and preparing a family member to be buried in one of two ways. Usually, this will include an above-ground entombment option, or you could go with a traditional in-ground burial.
As for; cremation vs burial, if you have a family plot or want to bury your family member nearby, this might be a good option for you. Traditional burials are more costly and less environmentally friendly, so it’s important to understand that when exploring this option.
Why Is Cremation More Popular Than Traditional Burials?
Cremation is more popular than traditional burials for several reasons. First, the cost of cremation is more of an affordable option than a traditional burial. Speaking in more specific terms, the bill for cremation is less than a third of what it would cost to have a traditional burial.
In addition, cremation is a fast process.
Although you generally have to wait anywhere between 24 and 72 hours after death for a loved one to be cremated, the general process only takes a few hours. Many people decide on this method based on the undeniable cost savings. The same goes for the flexibility to choose a resting place for your loved one.
Mainly, it’s more feasible than a traditional burial given the average cost upwards of $12,000 or much more. This cost can be a lot for a family to handle especially if unexpected.
Cremation vs Burial: The Best Decision Is Based on Your Needs
What you decide to do when a loved one passes away should be based on the options that are best for yourself and your family when considering cremation vs burial. If you want an eco-friendly and flexible option, cremation may be the best choice.
If you believe that a traditional burial works better for your family, it might be best to talk with a funeral services expert to explore your options based on your concerns and your budget. If you found this information helpful, keep reading our content.
