Cost-Saving Direct Cremations & Burials

Cremation, and especially burial costs vary significantly across different areas in the UK. However, direct cremation remains the cheapest cremation option available. Statistics from YouGov indicate that around 58% of people prefer cremation, a figure widely cited as “around 60%” in broader discussions.

Some key points about direct cremation & burials:

Understanding these options allows you to make cost‑aware choices about end‑of‑life arrangements while balancing emotional and environmental priorities.

Choosing a crematorium

If you are working within a tight budget and your chosen undertaker has listed the cremation fee as a disbursement, you could inquire if a cremation would be less at another nearby crematorium, providing dates were still suitable.

However, if the same undertaker has an all-in cost (a package), you would be limited in choice, as most packages have a set crematorium. Many cremations are cheaper in the morning and on weekdays, afternoons and weekends are normally more expensive. Cremation fees can normally be reduced in the early morning.

Direct cremation

Why choose direct cremation?

The often‑high cost of burial grounds in cemeteries is a key reason cremations continue to rise in popularity. Meanwhile, natural burials, which are increasingly embraced in rural areas, often offer a more affordable eco‑friendly alternative.

Direct cremation is the cheapest cremation when using an undertaker, and does not involve a funeral service beforehand. Instead, this cremation service happens immediately, at the date/time agreed by the crematorium, without mourners. Over more recent years these have become far more popular, one of the reasons is due to the low cost.

After completing this process, the cremated ashes are returned to the family or dispersed at the crematorium garden. Having the ashes delivered to the family often incur extra charges.

Many people choose a simple funeral via a direct cremation funeral plan because they don’t want to have the relatives left with the responsibility of sorting a funeral and reception. For others this cremation option is often chosen due to cost and emotional reasons as this type of funeral is far easier to arrange.

Direct cremation can be a more environmentally-friendly option than traditional burials. Burials can have a negative impact on the environment due to the use of embalming chemicals, coffins and the space needed for burial plots and headstones. Cremation, on the other hand, uses far fewer resources and takes up much less space. Additionally, some crematoriums offer eco-friendly options, such as using biodegradable urns or planting trees in memory of the deceased.

As there are no mourners present at a direct cremation there are additionally no:

Many families decide to conduct a celebration of life or memorial service for the beloved one after receiving the ashes. Due to the money saved with a direct cremation more money can often be put aside for a memorial service.

Council vs privately-run crematorium

For a full list of crematoriums visit UK crematoriums

Council-run crematoriums are often less expensive to use than privately-run crematoriums as they are operated on a not-for-profit basis. Additionally, council-run crematoriums may offer lower fees for local residents.

The main difference between council-run and privately-run crematoriums is the ownership and management of the facility. Council-run crematoriums are owned and operated by local government authorities, whereas privately-run crematoriums are owned and operated by private companies.

Another difference is the level of flexibility offered to families. Council-run crematoriums may have stricter policies and procedures in place, as they are governed by local government regulations. In contrast, privately-run crematoriums may have more flexibility when it comes to scheduling and personalising memorial services, as they are not bound by the same regulations.

Radiotherapy and cremation

Some articles suggest deceased people who have previously had radiotherapy treatment can pose a health risk when cremated as the cremation process can send radioactive particles into the air. However, at present deceased people who have undergone radiotherapy can be cremated.

Burial grounds

For a full list of cemeteries visit UK cemeteries.

The cheapest possible burial ground can often be found by shopping around between different boroughs. The cost of burial plots can vary enormously from area to area. You can save a considerable amount of money by asking the undertaker how much a cemetery plot costs compared to others. Alternatively, you could look online at the cemeteries in different councils. Discounts for burials within the same borough where the deceased lived are often available.

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Burial location

Although a local burial ground may cost more, many people choose a nearby cemetery or crematorium as that may have been the wish of the deceased or a place that is easy to visit. The location of the final resting place can be significant for many people, as it provides a place for them to visit and pay their respects. It can also bring comfort and closure to the bereaved to have their loved one buried in a familiar place close to home.

Ultimately, the decision on the burial ground is a personal one and should be made based on the wishes and needs of the deceased and their family.

Overview of cremation and burial

Cremation or burial is not only a personal decision but one often driven by cost. To read more on finding affordable cremation services please visit Cheaper Cremation and Burial Services in 2025.

For further helpful information covering different aspects of funerals from poems, flowers, bereavement gift ideas, what to wear at a funeral, low-cost headstones and much more, visit the Save Funeral Costs™ blog.