When planning a funeral, it is important to consider costs. For example, a casket can be one of the most costly parts of a funeral. On average, a casket costs between $2,000 to $5,000, depending on a couple of factors. 

Typically, you can obtain a list of caskets and their price so that you can save some money when planning a funeral. 

Average Cost of A Casket

As mentioned, caskets range between $2,000 to $5,000 based on a couple of factors. These factors include:

  • Material
  • Style
  • Color
  • Added features (decor)

Casket Cost by Gauge Size

materials can impact the cost of caskets

Caskets vary in cost by gauge size, where gauge size is the difference in metal thickness. A lower gauge is typically made of thicker steel. Due to the extra material used, these caskets tend to cost more. 

A steel casket can be as low as $850; however, prices can easily reach $1,600 or more. However, this price difference is due to the type of steel used. Furthermore, this is just the initial cost, not factoring in extra costs such as additional decorations or features of the casket.

  • Steel – $1,000 – $2,000
  • Stainless steel – $2,350 – $3,050
  • 16-gauge (16-ga.) – $2,300 – $3,400
  • 18-gauge (18-ga.) – $1,125 – $2,750
  • 20-gauge (20-ga.) – $825 – $1,125

Casket Cost by Type

Caskets also vary by material, which is known as type. Due to this, the costs will also vary. Typically, caskets are made of either wood or metal. However, even within these two options, there are several materials that caskets can be made of, which causes varying prices.

Bronze or Copper Casket

Bronze and copper caskets do not run by gauge size like steel caskets. However, they vary in weight, which in turn varies the price. A heavier casket will cost more, meaning the type of casket will increase or decrease the cost. Some examples of types and costs are:

  • Bronze – $4,125 – $8,100
  • Copper – $3,900 – $4,800
  • Promethean bronze – $22,000

Wood Casket

Wood caskets are another popular material. These caskets will vary in price, although less so than metal caskets. In general, these caskets range from $1,000 to $3,550 in price. Certain types of wood are cheaper depending on how easy it is to obtain or cut. For example, pine caskets tend to be cheaper, whereas other wood such as oak or maple is more expensive.

Fiberglass Casket

Fiberglass is another material that is often used to make caskets. Fiberglass is a light material, so it is usually used for smaller bodies. Typically it is used for infants or children. These are a good option as they come with different finish options. This enhances their look, which makes them more attractive. 

Green Casket

Green caskets are for those who are more environmentally friendly. Typically, they are biodegradable, breaking down gradually once placed in the ground. However, this material will vary in cost depending on what the casket is made of. 

These caskets are opted for because they can be made by an individual instead of being bought. This range in cost can be large due to the wide variety of materials and the choice to buy one or make it yourself. Typically the price range for caskets can cost anywhere from $100 to $700. 

These green caskets can be made of a variety of materials, including:

  • Bamboo
  • Cardboard
  • Fabric
  • Rattan
  • Fiberboard
  • Softwood

Due to the biodegradable features of these caskets, they are not stained to avoid potentially toxic chemicals or harmful pollutants. Therefore, these caskets can be just as beautiful and designed similarly to other caskets, even though they are environmentally friendly. 

Oversize Casket

An oversize casket is wider and designed to hold a larger person. This casket is wider than average, typically between 28 and 51 inches wide. Since these caskets are larger, they require more materials, ultimately making them more expensive. These can range between $1,550 to $4,150.

DIY Casket

DIY, or do-it-yourself caskets, are for individuals who choose to make their own, or have a family member or friend design one for them. The only significant costs with these caskets are the materials needed to create, stain, and decorate it. These cost $850 on average. However, if DIY projects are not your forte, we recommend reaching out to Miami Monument to help with selecting a casket that is right for you or your loved one.

Cremation Caskets

Cremation caskets are not caskets, but they are made to hold ashes after the cremation process. These can be made of a variety of materials which means they can be very inexpensive. These can cost as little as $200; however a nicer version can be between $625 and $2,425.

Casket Prices in Funeral Homes

how to save on the cost of casketsMost people end up buying caskets from a funeral home. When you are looking for a funeral home, consider the caskets they offer alongside their prices. These prices will vary on the material and additional decor the casket includes. 

Frequently, funeral homes sell caskets which are a bit more costly. If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider comparing funeral home prices to those online.

Casket Spray Prices

Most caskets get a flower arrangement put on the lid of the casket. This arrangement is known as casket spray. These flowers can be costly and also depend on the type of flower that is being used. Typically these can cost between $50 and $100 for a small arrangement. LArger arrangements can be upwards of $450. 

Casket Vault Prices

A casket vault is what the casket is kept in while inside the grave. The vaults are there mainly for protection. They help prevent the casket from breaking down while in the ground. These can cost around $1,800, depending on the material and size. Some cemeteries will require you to buy this for your casket, whereas others will leave it up to the family or friends.

Learn More About How Much Caskets Can Cost

Caskets and the amenities that go along with them can be expensive, although it does not have to be. Consider buying a casket from a reputable vendor such as Miami Monument Company. Also, be sure to consider the material the casket is made of. 

All of these considerations will help you save money on your funeral costs, while still being able to have a beautiful funeral for your loved one. To learn more about the options available to you in Maimi, contact Miami Monument today.