Why is Inground Burial More Expensive than Cremation and Internment in a Columbarium Niche?

There are a few reasons why inground burial is more expensive than cremation and inurnment in a columbarium niche.

• Land costs: Inground burial requires more land than cremation and inurnment in a columbarium niche. This is because a gravesite needs to be dug and maintained, while a columbarium niche can be placed in a variety of locations, including inside a building or on a wall.
• Casket costs: Inground burial typically requires a casket, while cremation does not. Caskets can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and fiberglass, and they can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
• Embalming costs: Embalming is a process that preserves the body and delays decomposition. It is not required by law in most states, but it is often done as a way to prepare the body for viewing and funeral. Embalming can cost several hundred dollars.
• Graveside services: Graveside services, such as a funeral or memorial service, can also add to the cost of inground burial. These services can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

In contrast, cremation is a less expensive option because it does not require a casket or embalming. The cost of cremation typically ranges from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Inurnment in a columbarium niche is also a less expensive option than inground burial, as it does not require as much land or as many materials. The cost of a columbarium niche typically ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Ultimately, the cost of inground burial versus cremation and inurnment in a columbarium niche will vary depending on a number of factors, including the location, the type of casket, the type of columbarium niche, and the additional services that are chosen. However, in general, inground burial is the more expensive option.