Costs
Direct cremation price lists: what the published price includes
Last updated 4 May 2026
Quick answer
A direct cremation price list should show one all-in price for an unattended cremation, including the cremation fee, simple coffin, transport and return of ashes. Compare that figure across local funeral directors rather than comparing only the professional fee.
Direct cremation is the simplest funeral service in the CMA price-list format. Because the required published price includes the cremation fee, it is usually the cleanest like-for-like funeral price to compare.
What a direct cremation price includes
A direct cremation is unattended: no service, no procession and no mourners at the crematorium. The published price should include collection, a simple coffin, transport to the crematorium, the cremation fee and return of ashes.
How to compare direct cremation prices
Use the published direct cremation line on each Standardised Price List, then compare by location. Start with UK direct cremation prices or browse direct cremation prices by location.
Why local prices vary
Prices vary because funeral directors use different crematoria, collection areas, staffing models and service levels. A national provider may publish a different price from a local independent even when the funeral type is the same.
Frequently asked questions
Does direct cremation include the cremation fee?
Yes. In the CMA Standardised Price List format, the direct cremation price is intended to include the cremation fee.
Where can I compare direct cremation price lists?
Use Funeral Cost Index's direct cremation location pages or postcode search to compare published prices from funeral directors near you.
Methodology
Prices are taken from funeral directors’ published CMA Standardised Price Lists where available. Funeral Cost Index does not sell placement to funeral directors and does not rank providers by commission.
Find published prices near you
Search by postcode or browse cities to see funeral directors’ published Standardised Price Lists in your area.