Summary 

• According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280 as of 2025. 
• A direct cremation, which does not include a ceremony, typically ranges from $2,800 to $3,000. 
• Costs may vary depending on service choices, merchandise preferences, and local factors in Massachusetts. 
• Families in Haverhill can choose the option that best reflects their wishes and their loved one’s preferences. 

How Much Does Cremation Cost? 

Families in Haverhill, MA, often ask how much cremation costs and what affects those costs. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) 2024 General Price List Study, the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280. This amount often includes professional services, transportation, and the use of facilities for a ceremony or gathering. 
 
A direct cremation, which typically does not include a formal service, usually costs between $2,800 and $3,000. Even with this simpler choice, funeral professionals work to ensure the cremation process is handled with care and dignity. 

Factors That Influence Cremation Costs 

Cremation costs may vary depending on the type of service a family selects, such as a gathering, memorial service, or celebration of life. Merchandise choices, such as urns or keepsakes, can also influence the overall cost. 
 
Local factors also play a role. Funeral homes that operate on-site crematories or offer specialized facilities may have different pricing structures because of maintenance, staffing, and community needs. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires all funeral homes to provide a General Price List (GPL) to support transparency and help families understand their options. 
 
Planning ahead may help families manage expenses and ensure their wishes are clearly documented. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is cremation less expensive than burial? 

Cremation is often more affordable because it typically does not require cemetery property, a burial vault, or a casket. Final costs depend on the services and personalization a family chooses. 

Can families still hold a service with cremation? 

Yes. Many families in Haverhill choose to have a memorial or celebration of life either before or after the cremation process. 

What does a direct cremation include? 

A direct cremation typically includes basic professional services, transportation, care of the deceased, and the cremation process itself. 

Written for Driscoll Funeral Home and Cremation Service, proudly serving families in Haverhill with compassion and care. 

About Driscoll Funeral Home and Cremation Service 

Families in Haverhill, MA, can turn to Driscoll Funeral Home and Cremation Service for professional, caring guidance. Located at 309 S Main St, Haverhill, MA 01835, the funeral home can be reached at (978) 374-0000 for support, cremation information, and preplanning assistance. 

www.driscollcares.com