After cremation, the question of the urn comes up quickly. The choice is wider than many expect — and prices vary considerably depending on material, style, and intended use. Here is a complete overview to help guide your decision.
Basic urns: $50 to $150
Basic urns are typically made of rigid plastic or simple metal. They serve their primary purpose: holding ashes in a dignified and secure way. These are often the urns funeral homes include by default in their most accessible cremation packages. If your intention is to use the urn temporarily before scattering the ashes or transferring them to a columbarium, a basic urn may be entirely appropriate.
Standard urns: $150 to $500
This range includes worked metal urns (brass, anodized aluminum), ceramic, solid wood (maple, cherry, walnut), or composite materials. They are often engravable with the name, dates, and a short inscription. These are the most commonly chosen urns by families who wish to keep the ashes at home or inter them in a cemetery.
Biodegradable urns: $100 to $600
Designed to decompose naturally in earth or water, biodegradable urns are ideal for sea scattering, interment in a memorial forest, or burial in an ecological cemetery. They are made from papier mâché, salt (for water), natural fibres, or compressed cellulose. Some models contain seeds that germinate after burial.
Artistic and personalized urns: $500 to $2,000+
Artistic urns are unique handcrafted pieces — blown glass, painted porcelain, sculpted stone, or other artisan techniques. They can be ordered with custom motifs, integrated photos, or designs that reflect the deceased's passions (nature, music, travel, etc.). For those who want the urn to be a permanent art object in their home, this is the most expressive option.
Is the urn included in the cremation package?
This depends on the funeral home and the package chosen. Some cremation packages include a basic urn in the price. Others charge for the urn separately. Always ask what is included before comparing packages between establishments.
Urns for two people (companion urns)
It is possible to find urns with sufficient capacity for two sets of ashes — particularly for spouses who wish to be reunited. Sharing urns also exist: several small urns each containing a portion of the ashes, allowing different family members to keep a portion.
Updated: March 2026