When the time comes to lay a loved one to rest, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the number of options available.

One option that has grown steadily in popularity is cremation. Since 2015, cremation has become more popular than burial in the U.S., thanks in part to its lower costs compared to funeral homes and burial.

As a funeral director serving the New York City community for over twenty years, I often meet families who are curious about cremation but may feel unsure about the process, its trade-offs, and whether it aligns with their beliefs and values.

In this guide, we'll explore:

• Pros and cons of cremation

• Cost comparison of different cremation services near you

• Tips to find an affordable cremation service

We'll also explore how Funeralplan can help you save money and find the perfect service for your loved one.

What is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of transforming someone’s body into ashes after they pass away. People often keep these ashes in an urn, bury them, or scatter them in a meaningful place. Cremation is a popular alternative to traditional burial because it's affordable, convenient, and sustainable for the environment.

Key points about cremation:

• Typically takes 2-3 hours per individual.

• Occurs in a dedicated crematory facility.

• Ashes are processed into a fine consistency before being placed in a temporary container or an urn of your choice.

How does cremation work?

From start to finish, cremation typically takes 1-3 business days and can be broken down into the following steps:

1. Transportation of the Deceased: The funeral home will transfer your loved one to a licensed crematory.

2. Necessary Authorizations: Legal documents and permits must be secured. In New York State, consent from the next-of-kin or a person with written authorization is required before cremation.

3. Identification and Preparation: Your loved one is securely identified and prepared. Personal items that cannot withstand high heat (like jewelry) are removed and returned to the family.

4. Cremation in a Retort (Chamber): The body is placed in a cremation container (often a simple, combustible box) and then into the cremation chamber.

5. Processing Remains: After cremation, the bone fragments are processed into a fine powder, placed into a temporary container, and then transferred to an urn or keepsake chosen by the family.

Why should you consider cremation?

Cremation has grown in popularity in the past few decades for several reasons. Many people appreciate the simplicity and flexibility it offers—families can choose a private moment to scatter ashes, hold a memorial service later, or even divide the remains among multiple family members, each honoring their loved one in their own meaningful way. It's also one of the most affordable options.

Common Reasons Families Choose Cremation:

• Flexibility: The timeline for memorial services is more flexible than with burial.

• Portability: You can keep your loved one’s remains close if you move.

• Cost Efficiency: Generally, cremation can be more affordable than a traditional burial.

• Environmental Considerations: Some view it as a more environmentally-friendly option than full-body burial.

Still, cremation is not for everyone. If you have unique religious traditions, you may want to consider a more guided service, such as a funeral home or burial.

How much does cremation cost?

Costs can vary based on the services and products chosen. While cremation generally offers a more cost-effective alternative to a traditional burial (which often involves an expensive casket, cemetery plot, and headstone), it’s not without expenses. Families can choose from a range of urns, memorial services, and optional celebrations of life.

3 best cremation services in New York City in 2025

Cremation services vary in their offerings — and not all will suit your needs. That's why we've singled out the eight best ones for your convenience. Here's a brief overview of our picks before we dive deeper into their features:

1. Best overall pick: After

2. Most affordable: Tulip Cremation

3. Best branding: After

Unique requirements in NYC

In New York City, cremation is common, but there are specific rules to ensure proper and dignified handling:

• Mandatory 24-Hour Wait: State law requires a minimum of 24 hours after death before cremation can occur.

• Proper Documentation: A cremation permit must be obtained from the New York City Health Department.

• Licensed Crematories: Cremations must be carried out in approved facilities that meet strict standards.

Your funeral director will guide you through these requirements, ensuring everything is handled properly and respectfully.

How Funeralplan can help…

Funeralplan is designed to help save you time and money—so you can focus on what matters most. We can:

• Explain the process clearly, insuring you understand your options at each step.

• Handle paperwork and permits, so you don't have to stress.

• Offer emotional support and tailor services that feel right to you.

• Coordinate personalized memorials; from recommending local venues in NYC to suggesting creative keepsakes, we help bring your vision to life.

Conclusion

Cremation is a flexible, cost-conscious, and dignified choice embraced by many families in New York City and beyond. Understanding what’s involved—from the legal steps to the ways you can memorialize a loved one—can ease your decision-making process. Whether you choose cremation or another form of final disposition, remember that you’re not alone. Funeralplan is here to help you navigate these challenging times, providing the support you need to honor your loved one with grace and peace.