Cremation Costs in South Carolina 2024

As the cost of traditional funerals continues to rise, more families in South Carolina are turning to cremation as a more affordable and flexible alternative.  Several different cremation options are available to families, and deciding what type of cremation service is required is important. 

Listed below is a breakdown of average & best direct cremation prices by area in South Carolina.

Low-cost direct cremation prices above are offered by DFS Memorials – a network of affordable cremation service providers. Visit DFS Memorials – South Carolina to check other locations.

The most economical service is known as a “direct cremation,” where the deceased is taken into the care of a funeral home/cremation provider, all the necessary legal paperwork is completed, and the body is then cremated.  There is generally no viewing or service with a direct cremation. 

What are the different types of cremation service options and costs in South Carolina?

There are 3 main types of cremation choices available to families in South Carolina, and we have outlined the differences below. 

1.     Direct Cremation – a direct cremation involves the immediate cremation of the deceased without a formal funeral service being held. This basic type of cremation service has become popular due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.  

In South Carolina, the average cost for a direct cremation in 2024 is $1,942*. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the location, with major metropolitan areas like Columbia generally offering lower costs than rural regions. 

A direct cremation service can be conducted for just $950 in Columbia. Call (803) 380-8807 for immediate assistance.

This discrepancy can be attributed to factors such as increased competition, higher population density, and greater availability of cremation facilities.  

2.     Cremation Memorial Service – a cremation memorial typically refers to the cremation taking place prior to a memorial service being held.  The memorial service can be held at the funeral home, chapel, church, place of worship, or at any chosen location.  Some families today choose to hold memorial services at community venues.  The memorial service will usually be held with the cremation urn present as a focal tribute to the deceased.  However, memorial services are also held without the cremated remains present.

It is not as simple to give an overview of cremation memorial services’ costs, as the ‘variable’ of the memorial service will dictate the final cost.  Much will depend on whether the memorial service is conducted by the funeral home and other ancillary services. Such as the type of cremation urn selected, flowers, photographs, and other tribute materials. 

As a guide, a Cremation Memorial Service in South Carolina can cost between $3,000 – $6,000. The average price of a Cremation Memorial is $3,361.*

3.     Full-Service Cremation Funeral – This type of service is a full-service funeral, with the cremation conducted after the funeral service. Some families want to hold a visitation, wake, or formal funeral ceremony, even if they choose cremation.  A viewing, visitation, or vigil can be held at the funeral home. Family and friends can gather for a funeral service, typically with the deceased present. Following the funeral ritual, the deceased is transferred to the crematory for cremation, and the cremation ashes are then returned to the family.

This type of cremation service is like a traditional funeral service, except the deceased, is cremated after the ceremony and services instead of transferred to the cemetery for burial.  

This option enables a family to have all the traditional funeral rituals without the additional expense of cemetery plot costs.  Or a family may have a cemetery plot where they wish to inter the cremated remains. 

As a guide, a Full Service Cremation Funeral in South Carolina can cost between $5,000 – $10,000

Understanding average cremation costs in South Carolina today?

As discussed, cremation service costs vary depending on the type of cremation service and the cremation service provider. So, quoting “average” costs can be difficult. One funeral home can charge $850 for a direct cremation, yet another will charge $2,900 for a direct cremation. They are both offering the exact same service. Meaning the higher end of the pricing spectrum can skew an “average” price for a direct cremation.

Summary – Cremation Options & Costs

• Cremation services have gained popularity as cremation offers a much more affordable death care alternative.  Whether the cost is the driving factor or for those families and individuals who want a simple, flexible, and more creative option.
• Direct cremation offers families an extremely cost-effective option to manage an immediate death or preplan for a simple cremation.
• Choosing cremation means that a family can personalize memorialization.  There are many options for conducting a memorial service and creating memorial artifacts from cremated remains.

Direct cremation

Pros:

• Offers the most economical cremation option.
• Can eliminate many ancillary funeral expenses.
• Can be arranged without the need to visit the funeral home for arrangement.
• It is easy to make arrangements from out-of-state & have cremated remains shipped to the family for a memorial service elsewhere.
• Allows for the disposition of a body to be handled in a quick yet dignified manner. And enable the family to postpone a funeral memorial service until later.

Cons:

• May require the family to submit online forms with the information required to process the cremation. This often helps a direct cremation provider collate data and manage staff arrangement time/costs.
• The cremated remains are usually returned in a temporary cardboard container unless you choose to add a cremation urn to your direct cremation service package.

Cremation Memorial Service

Pros:

• A family can still gather for a ceremony, but as the cremation is conducted first, the time frame for holding a memorial service is more flexible.
• Memorial services can be uniquely personalized, allowing the family to be creative in the design of a service.
• Offers a more affordable funeral celebration/ritual event.

Cons:

• As Memorial services, or a Life Celebration Memorial, can get quite creative, the ancillary costs for the memorialization can easily escalate.

Traditional Cremation Service

Pros:

• A funeral service is held at the time of passing and can help families to say goodbye.
• It will cost less than a traditional burial service.
• More funeral homes offer rental caskets for a cremation service to help reduce casket expenses.

Cons:

• As you are conducting a traditional service with the help of a funeral director, it can be easy to find that ancillary expenses can add up.
• A traditional cremation service is generally held fairly soon after the deceased passes.  A direct cremation or cremation memorial can enable the family to defer the need for immediate services.

What Can You Do with Cremation Ashes in SC?

After a cremation service, a family has several options for what to do with the cremation ashes. This may depend on their preferences and beliefs. Or the costs associated with cremation memorialization choices.

Listed below are the main options for you to consider:

1. Keep the ashes at home: Many families choose to keep the ashes in an urn or a special container at home. This allows them to create a comforting presence and keep their loved ones nearby. Some families even choose to display the ashes in a special area or create a memorial space.

2. Bury the ashes: Families can choose to bury the ashes in a cemetery or a designated burial plot. This provides a more permanent resting place and allows for future visits and remembrance. Aside from cemetery burial plots, more cemeteries now offer dedicated cremation columbarium niches and bespoke memorial scattering gardens. Some gardens offer small plaques or benches to create a long-lasting tribute.

3. Scatter the ashes: Scattering the ashes can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased’s memory. Ash scattering is now a popular choice for many families. Scattering cremation ashes can hold great symbolism for many people. It represents releasing and returning a loved one’s physical remains to the elements, freeing their spirit. The act of scattering ashes can symbolize letting go, saying goodbye, and allowing the deceased to become part of the natural world.

If you opt to scatter cremated remains off the coast of South Carolina, you do need to notify the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) within 30 days. And must only use a biodegradable container. South Carolina falls under Region 4 of the EPA. EPA Region 4, Sam Nunn Atlanta Federal Center, 61 Forsyth Street, SW, Atlanta, GA 30303  Phone (404) 562-9395

These are just a few suggestions, and it ultimately depends on the family’s wishes and cultural or religious practices. It may be helpful to consult a funeral director who can provide guidance and support to help you decide.

Remember that there is no timeframe for when or how to memorialize a loved one. So, if you are unsure, do not make a rushed decision.

What South Carolina Legislation Governs Cremation Arrangements?

In South Carolina, the laws governing cremations are primarily outlined by the South Carolina Labor Licensing Regulation Board of Funeral Service. They license funeral establishments and crematories and dictate the regulations and requirements for the cremation process to ensure it is conducted safely and legally.

The main key points are:

Authorization: Before a cremation can occur, the person with the legal authority to make decisions regarding the deceased’s remains must provide written authorization. This is generally referred to as the Cremation Authorization Form. An individual may authorize his or her own cremation and the final disposition of his or her cremated remains by executing a cremation authorization form.

Identification: The deceased must be properly identified and labeled before the cremation process begins. This ensures your loved one is tracked throughout the whole cremation process.

Documentation: Detailed records must be maintained throughout the entire cremation process, including information about the identity of the deceased, the date and time of the cremation, and any medical devices or implants present.

Crematory requirements: Crematories must meet specific standards and obtain the necessary permits and licenses to operate legally in South Carolina.

Disposition of remains: After the cremation, the cremains must be properly handled in accordance with the wishes of the deceased or their authorized representative. A funeral home will require the family to sign a Designation of Intentions document.

Cremation Container: A casket is NOT required by law for a cremation. All that is required is a suitable rigid container. A cremation container is usually a reinforced cardboard or plywood box. Some funeral homes offer rental caskets if you wish to hold a funeral service before the cremation.

These are the key aspects of the laws regarding cremation in South Carolina. For more specific information or if you have any additional questions, it would be a good idea to consult an attorney or contact the South Carolina Labor Licensing Regulation Board of Funeral Service for official guidance.

Do you have to employ a funeral director for a direct cremation? Can the family deal directly with the crematory?

You do not have to employ a funeral director, even for a direct cremation service. It is permissible in SC to conduct your own ‘home’ death care or conduct a family-led funeral. Code § 44-63-74 allows for an “individual who acts, without compensation, as a funeral director on behalf of a deceased family member or friend” to manage funeral/cremation arrangements.  You would need to file the death certificate and obtain the necessary cremation and transit permits from the local registrar.  And do check which funeral homes/crematories are agreeable to working directly with a family.

The process of filing documentation, especially when dealing with a loss, is often why most families prefer to use the services of a funeral director, even if the family is choosing direct cremation as the final disposition.

How long does a cremation take in South Carolina?

There is a 24-hour mandatory wait period after the death before a cremation can go ahead in South Carolina.  However, the process to complete the legally required paperwork usually takes at least 24 hours.  It is fair to say that it is usually 5-7 days for a cremation to be performed. (Longer if there are any issues with consent or issuing a death certificate)

The deceased will be sheltered in refrigerated storage during this time. A direct cremation service package generally includes refrigeration for up to 10-14 days.  There may be an additional daily fee for refrigeration if the funeral home has to store the deceased for longer.

What is the least expensive cremation service?

Direct cremation is your least expensive cremation option. This is when cremation is carried out without a service or ceremony. It is a simple, dignified cremation of the deceased with minimal ‘fuss’ and at a minimal cost.

The cremated remains are returned to the next of kin after everything has been taken care of.  A family can hold a memorial service if they wish when they are ready, which can even be conducted at home for much less. 

Direct cremation takes care of the immediate need to handle the disposition of the deceased. Still, it can also enable the family to defer the need for a memorial service or enable them to craft their own bespoke personalized ‘send off.’

Are there any extra fees added to a low-cost cremation service package?

The service charge for a direct cremation is listed on the funeral provider’s General Price List. This should include the basic services of the funeral director, collection and transfer of the deceased, completing the legal paperwork, and conducting the cremation.  It usually includes a simple cardboard cremation container and a temporary urn.

The funeral director will pay third-party fees to the local county to obtain the death certificate and pay for any permit charges.  These are third-party fees that are added to the direct cremation service fee.

In South Carolina, most death certificates are filed electronically within five days of the death. (Code § 44-63-74).  A medical professional has 48 hours to sign off cause of death.

The first certified copy of a South Carolina death certificate costs $12.00, and additional copies cost $3.00 each.

You may require more than one death certificate, as you must send them off to multiple institutions, organizations, or government offices simultaneously.

Most authority bodies that need evidence of the death, i.e., a life insurance company, will require an original copy of a death certificate. Certified copies of a death certificate are usually available within ten days after the death. 

There can be an additional charge if any of the below services are required:

• Residential collection
• Removal of a pace-maker
• Overweight surcharge (above 250 pounds)
• Family arrangement consultation
• Mailing of cremated remains

What about a “no-cost” cremation in South Carolina?

What is sometimes called a “free” cremation or “no-cost” cremation is a whole-body donation.  Once the donation is performed, the remains are cremated free of charge.  However, in some cases, there are costs associated with transporting the deceased and obtaining death certificates.

Donating your body to medical science has been an end-of-life choice for some time now. However, it has certainly gained more popularity in recent times. For many, it now seems a valuable disposition method, so it is commonly called an “anatomical gift.” Several national organizations offer an anatomical gift program whereby you can donate your body to science and the benefit of future generations.

They arrange the collection of the deceased, medical donation, cremation of remains, and return of cremains to the family, usually at no charge. There are also a number of Universities and Medical Schools in South Carolina that operate whole-body donation programs, and we have listed them below.

The University of South Carolina School of Medicine offers a Gift of Body Program (GOB) that began in the 1970s to help train medical staff to better serve South Carolinians.

USC School of Medicine  Cell Biology & Anatomy, Columbia SC, 29208  Phone (803) 216-3888

There are minimal costs to the surviving family unless a donor dies outside of the state of South Carolina or a considerable distance away from Columbia, SC.  Within a certain distance outside of the state of South Carolina, it may be possible that the donor still be allowed acceptance into the program with the donor’s family incurring the extended transportation cost. Other costs to the family are for death certificates.

The study period for a donor is between one to four years. Once the study is complete, the cremated remains are returned to the family or interred in a designated Memorial Garden.

MUSC Willed Body Program in Charleston, SC, conducts an Anatomical Gift Program.  Donors MUST have registered to be a donor. Next of kin cannot opt to donate a loved one on passing if he or she has not previously consented and signed a MUSC Anatomical Gift Program donation form.

MUSC Anatomical Gift Program, Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, 173 Ashley Avenue – BSB 601, MSC 508, Charleston, SC 29425. Phone (843) 792-3521

The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville Hospital System has a Willed Body Program.  Generally, a donation to the program has no associated costs to the donor or the donor’s next of kin. The donation period lasts between one month to two years. After completion, the donor’s cremated remains are returned to the family. For more information, contact the GHS Willed Body Program at (864) 455-9838.

Do understand that an anatomical donation cannot always be accepted at the time of death. It can be affected by the needs of medical and research institutions at the time and transportation services. Registering to become a donor is NO guarantee that your donation will be accepted.

Visit our Body Donation page to read further about this option. 

Does South Carolina Offer any financial assistance towards cremation costs?

There are no state-level programs to provide financial assistance for cremation costs. Instead, residents must explore any Federal, County, or city of residence programs that offer help.

Federal Resources: A surviving spouse or dependent may receive a lump-sum death payment of $255 if they meet eligibility requirements. Social Security’s Lump Sum Death Payment (LSDP) is federally funded and managed by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA).

County/Municipality Resources: Eligibility for any county assistance varies by county and city. Local counties may budget some provisions to manage indigent cremation services and sometimes offer support to needy or low-income families.  You would need to check into what support is available in your County.  Use this link to find your nearest SC County Office.

What happens if I cannot pay for a cremation?

As covered above, there are Federal, State, and County programs the family can explore if the deceased and surviving family are eligible. The responsibility to pay the funeral bill falls to the immediate next of kin if the deceased had no pre-paid funeral plan or life insurance.  This can be very stressful if you lose a family member and become responsible for the funeral arrangements without any resources. 

Check out this guide to What to do if I cannot afford a funeral to learn about other possible funding and charity organizations.

What happens if the deceased is at the Medical Examiner’s morgue?

If the deceased is at the coroner’s office, you must arrange for a funeral director to collect the body when the coroner signs the release form.  You must authorize the funeral director to collect your loved one and transfer him or her into their care.

As most funeral directors deal with the coroner’s office on a regular basis, and the ME issues the authorization and permit to cremate, it can make the arrangements easier.  For this reason, some funeral homes can offer a budget direct cremation when handling remains from the Medical Examiner.

How to Make a Complaint if you are dissatisfied with a Cremation Service Provider

If you had a bad experience with a cremation service in South Carolina, it is important to notify the correct licensing and legal authorities. This way, appropriate action can be taken, and other consumers can be protected.  We have detailed below some steps you can take to register a complaint.

1. Gather information: Firstly, ensure you have all the necessary details about the cremation provider, such as their name, address, and contact information. Additionally, note down the specifics of your complaint and any supporting documentation you may have.

2. Contact the provider: Start by contacting the cremation provider directly. Explain your concerns and see if they can address and resolve the issue to your satisfaction. If they are unresponsive or you are not satisfied with their response, proceed to the next step.

3. File a complaint with the South Carolina Labor Licensing Regulation Board of Funeral Service: The Board oversees funeral and cremation services. You can file a complaint with the Board by either submitting a complaint online through their official website or contacting them directly for guidance on how to proceed.

Do note: The Board can only take action if it finds sufficient evidence that the funeral director has violated Public Health Law in implementing cremation regulations. If the complaint concerns a dispute regarding cremation fees, please note that the Department has no jurisdiction over the fee amount charged, only the mandated disclosure of the fee, as per the FTC Funeral Rule.

Contact details: South Carolina Labor Licensing Regulation Board of Funeral Service, 110 Centerview Dr, Columbia, SC. Email: contact.funeral@llr.sc.gov. Phone (803) 896-4497

You can complete the Complaint Form online here.

If your complaint is regarding fees charged or any other consumer issue,  you may wish to make a formal complaint to the Federal Trade Commission.  You can file a complaint with the FTC online or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).

The FTC cannot resolve individual problems for consumers, but it can act against a funeral/cremation company if it sees a pattern of law violations.

4. File a complaint with the South Carolina Attorney General: Another option is to contact the SC Attorney General’s Office.  Rembert Dennis Building, 1000 Assembly Street, Room 519, Columbia, S.C. 29201 Phone (803) 734-4200

5. Seek legal advice: If the issue remains unresolved, or you feel further action should be taken, you might consider consulting with an attorney specializing in funeral law or consumer protection. They can provide you with legal guidance and help explore your options for further action

If you have further questions about cremation services or costs in South Carolina that we have not answered, please get in touch with us. We are here to assist you. You can also visit our Complete Guide to Funeral Planning in South Carolina for more FAQs concerning death care arrangements.

*Cremation prices obtained from online sources 2023 – Funeralocity/Parting.