Cremation Overview in Georgia

Losing a loved one is never easy, and making decisions about cremation in Georgia can feel overwhelming. This guide explains what to expect, what typically affects cremation costs, and where to find reliable information—so you can make choices with clarity and care.

In Georgia, cremation is a common choice because it can be simpler than a traditional burial, and it offers flexible ways to honor someone—whether that’s a quiet family moment at home, a memorial service at a church, or a celebration of life in a favorite place. You can usually choose from:

• Direct cremation (no formal viewing or ceremony before cremation)
• Cremation with a memorial service (a gathering after cremation, often with an urn present)
• Cremation with visitation/viewing (viewing first, then cremation)

Georgia funeral homes and crematories are regulated at the state level, and families also have protections under the federal Funeral Rule (including the right to see a General Price List when asking about prices).

Average Cremation Costs in Georgia

Cremation costs vary by city, provider type, transportation distance, body size, and the level of ceremony. Prices also change over time. The ranges below are typical for many families in Georgia based on published package pricing from multiple Georgia providers.

Direct cremation (no visitation or ceremony)

Typical range: $900–$1,800

• Often includes basic service fees, transportation into care (within a local radius), filing paperwork, the cremation process, and a basic container or temporary urn.
• May not include certified copies of death certificates, expedited shipping of ashes, or upgraded urns.

Cremation followed by a memorial service

Typical range: $2,000–$4,500

• Often includes cremation plus the provider’s staff/services for a memorial gathering (either at the funeral home or another venue).
• Venue fees, printed materials, flowers, clergy/celebrant honoraria, catering, and an upgraded cremation urn are usually additional.

Cremation with visitation/viewing

Typical range: $4,000–$7,500+

• This is closer to the cost structure of a traditional funeral because it commonly includes preparation, use of facilities/staff for viewing, and a ceremony before cremation.
• Depending on the provider and situation, embalming or enhanced preparation may be recommended for viewing (and some services may require it). Georgia’s consumer guide notes embalming is not required by state law for cremation or immediate burial, though there are special circumstances and practical considerations for viewing.

If you’re comparing providers, ask for the General Price List (GPL) and a written statement of goods and services you select. The Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule requires a GPL when you ask about prices, and it supports your right to buy only what you want.

Helpful shopping tip: Georgia families can also review statewide price comparisons compiled by the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Georgia as a research starting point. Funeral Home Pricing Comparison table (Georgia).

Cremation Laws and Legal Requirements in Georgia

This section is informational only and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations can change, and details can depend on your situation.

Who has the legal right to authorize cremation?

Georgia law addresses who has the right to control the disposition of remains (sometimes called the “right of sepulture”). In many cases, the legal next of kin is the decision-maker, but a person may also set instructions in advance and name someone to carry them out under certain arrangements. You can review the statute here: Georgia Code § 31-21-7 (Justia).

Disposition permit and required paperwork

Before cremation can occur, paperwork must be completed (typically including the death certificate and required authorizations). Georgia uses a “Permit for Disposition of Human Remains,” and the form references Georgia DPH rules about when a disposition permit may be issued and that the permit can only be issued in the county of death. Georgia DPH Permit for Disposition of Human Remains (PDF).

Georgia’s consumer guide also describes common timing expectations for death certificate completion and filing (including typical timelines and what may happen when a death is under investigation). Georgia DHS Division of Aging Services guide (PDF).

Regulators and consumer protections

• Georgia funeral homes and crematories are overseen by the Georgia State Board of Funeral Service. Funeral Service Board rules and regulations.
• Georgia’s consumer guide explains key protections like the Funeral Rule, price lists, and common questions families should ask. Georgia DHS consumer guide (PDF).
• The Federal Trade Commission enforces the Funeral Rule. FTC guide to complying with the Funeral Rule.

Types of Cremation and Service Options in Georgia

When families talk about cremation in Georgia, they’re usually choosing a service style and deciding what they want to do with the cremated remains afterward. Here are the most common options.

Direct cremation

Direct cremation is the simplest arrangement: the provider brings your loved one into their care, completes the required paperwork, performs the cremation, and returns the ashes in a temporary container or basic urn. Families often hold a memorial later, at home or at a venue that feels meaningful.

Cremation with a memorial service

A memorial service happens after cremation. The urn may be displayed with photos, flowers, a video tribute, or favorite music. This option is common because it gives families flexibility with timing, travel, and planning—especially if relatives are coming from out of town.

Cremation with visitation/viewing

This option includes a viewing (visitation) before cremation, often in a funeral home. It can be helpful for families who want a traditional “goodbye moment” while still choosing cremation. It is also usually the most expensive cremation path because of staffing, facility use, and preparation needs.

Choosing urns and memorial items

After cremation, families may choose a full-size cremation urn, smaller keepsakes for relatives, or a display option like a niche in a columbarium. If you’re unsure about sizing, Funeral.com offers resources that can help you choose confidently:

• urn size chart
• guide to choosing the right urn size

Cultural Norms and Local Practices Around Cremation in Georgia

Georgia is diverse—religiously, culturally, and geographically—so families honor loved ones in many different ways. Some local patterns you may notice include:

• Faith-based memorials (church services, scripture readings, and community meals after the service)
• Veteran honors (flag presentation, military rites, and interment in a cemetery that offers urn burial or niches)
• Family-centered gatherings at home, parks, or event venues, especially when cremation is chosen for flexibility
• Keeping ashes at home temporarily while the family decides on a permanent plan, such as a columbarium niche or scattering

For scattering, families typically consider landowner permission, local rules, and environmental respect (for example, avoiding high-traffic areas and keeping remains away from trails, water intakes, and private property without consent).

If you are considering scattering at sea, the U.S. EPA provides federal guidance for burial at sea, including rules for cremated remains. EPA burial at sea guidance.

How to Choose a Cremation Provider in Georgia

Choosing a provider for cremation in Georgia is a personal decision. These steps can help you compare options with less stress:

Ask for the General Price List and compare apples to apples

Under the FTC Funeral Rule, once you ask about prices, the provider should offer a General Price List (GPL). Use it to compare the basic services fee, direct cremation package, crematory fee, transportation radius, and add-ons. FTC Funeral Rule compliance guide.

Confirm what the package includes

When comparing cremation costs, ask specifically about:

• Removal/transport mileage limits (and per-mile fees beyond that)
• Paperwork support (death certificate filing, disposition permit steps)
• Whether the crematory is on-site or a third-party partner is used
• Return of ashes (pickup vs. shipping, and shipping costs)
• Timing estimates based on permits and medical review

Ask about identification and the return of ashes

Families often want reassurance that they’ll receive the correct ashes. A good provider should clearly explain their identification process (ID tags, tracking forms, and chain-of-custody steps) and answer questions without rushing you.

Consider reputation, clarity, and comfort

Price matters, but so do responsiveness, transparency, and the feeling that your loved one will be treated with dignity. Trust your instincts—especially if something feels unclear or pressured.

Notable Cremation Providers in Georgia

Disclaimer: This is not a recommendation or endorsement—just a starting list for your own research. Pricing, availability, service areas, and ownership can change, so verify details directly.

• Cremation Society of Georgia (Atlanta) — Offers cremation packages and planning resources with published pricing. Website.
• Dogwood Cremation Care (Acworth / Atlanta metro) — Provides direct cremation and related paperwork support, with on-site crematory options described online. Phone: 404-665-5333. Website.
• SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society (Alpharetta, Marietta, Stockbridge) — Offers cremation service options and multiple metro-area locations with published contact information. Phone: (800) 474-0448. Website.
• Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center (Savannah) — Offers cremation packages with on-site crematory details and published package pricing. Phone: (912) 777-4473. Website.
• Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors (Savannah) — Provides cremation service options ranging from direct cremation to services with visitation; notes on-site crematory. Website.
• Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Services (Athens) — Funeral home offering cremation services and planning support; includes published phone contact. Phone: 706-543-7373. Website.
• Athens Cremation Services (Watkinsville / Athens area) — Offers simple cremation packages with published pricing and contact details. Phone: 706-769-5689. Website.
• Simply Cremation of Middle Georgia (Macon) — Offers transparent pricing information and phone support for families in Middle Georgia. Phone: (478) 285-8999. Website.
• Georgia Cremation (Duluth / serves multiple areas including Columbus) — Provides “simple cremation” service information and contact details for Georgia families. Phone: (678) 584-0914. Website.

FAQs About Cremation in Georgia

Final note: Laws and prices change. Always verify current requirements and total costs directly with providers, local funeral homes, and official Georgia state and local sources before making decisions.