Choosing your final resting place or the final resting place for someone you are close to can be difficult. There are a lot of options to choose from, ranging from cremation to burial in a plot or mausoleum. It's even possible to have your body donated to medical science. In recent years, cremation has become more popular across the United States. In 2016, cremation was the choice for just over 50 percent of all funerals in the US. For those who are considering cremation, here are three things to consider.

Cost

The first thing to consider when it comes to cremation is the cost. While cremation is typically less expensive than a burial, there are a few things that can increase the cost. Having a funeral ceremony or a visitation with the body before the cremation can add thousands to the total. A basic cremation with no ceremony typically runs between $1,000 and $2,500, while a cremation with a simple ceremony averages between $3,000 and $5,000. Cremation with a ceremony, open casket visitation, and a burial site for the ashes can cost between $6,500 and $16,500.

Urns

After a cremation, many decide to have the ashes either placed in one large urn or to have them divided into smaller vessels to give to the deceased's loved ones. Urns run the gamut from very basic containers to ornate works of art. A basic urn can cost as little as $30 to $150, while an ornate urn can cost $1,000 to $5,000, depending on craftsmanship and the materials used. Smaller keepsake urns can also range in price and detail. In general, the more ornate the urn, the more expensive it will be. 

What To Do With The Ashes

While many may choose to place their loved one's ashes in an urn and keep the urn with them, others choose to either bury the urn or scatter the ashes. The cost to scatter ashes can range from free on private property with permission to a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars in certain areas. The ashes from cremation are sanitary and are not considered to be a health hazard. The cost to scatter ashes in most national parks ranges from $20 to $50, while hiring a service to scatter ashes in a remote wilderness area typically ranges from $200 to $1,600.

For many people, cremation seems like the best way to deal with their remains after they leave this world. However, there are a few things to consider when it comes to cremation. Costs can vary greatly depending on whether it's a basic cremation or a cremation with a visitation and a ceremony. There is also the decision of what type of urn the remains will be housed in. It's also important to decide on what to do with the ashes. It's possible to keep them, bury them, or have the spread out in a designated area. To learn more about cremation, contact a company like American Cremation Society.