How much does cremation cost in Chattanooga — and what affects the price
If you have been searching for cremation prices in Chattanooga, you have probably already noticed that the numbers vary wildly — from under $900 to well over $3,000. Here is an honest breakdown of why that is, what you are actually paying for, and how to make sure you are getting a fair price.
The range in Chattanooga
At the lowest end, you will find direct cremation services starting around $895. At the high end, national corporate chains can charge $3,000 to $3,500 or more for what is essentially the same service. The difference is rarely about quality — it is almost always about overhead, location, and profit margin.
At Covenant Funeral & Crematory, our direct cremation starts at $1,195. That price includes everything — transfer of your loved one into our care, all required permits and documentation, the cremation itself at our on-site crematory, and return of the remains to your family. No hidden fees. No surprises.
What affects the price of cremation
Several factors determine what you will pay:
Whether the funeral home has an on-site crematory. When a funeral home does not operate its own crematory, they send your loved one to a third party — and charge you for that. At Covenant, everything is handled in-house. Your loved one never leaves our care.
The type of container. A direct cremation uses a simple alternative container. If you choose a casket for a viewing before cremation, that adds cost. Neither choice is wrong — it depends entirely on what your family needs.
Additional services. A direct cremation covers the essentials. If you want a formal viewing, a ceremony at our facility, printed memorial materials, or other services, those are added separately and priced transparently.
Urns and keepsakes. The return of remains is included in our base price. Urns, jewelry, or other memorial items are optional and separately priced.
What is not included in any cremation price — anywhere
Cemetery costs, obituary publication fees, and death certificates are not included in funeral home pricing. These are third-party costs that every family pays regardless of which funeral home they choose.
The most important thing to know
You have the legal right to ask any funeral home for their General Price List before making any decisions. At Covenant, our pricing is published on our website. No appointment needed. No pressure.
If you have questions about cremation pricing or want to talk through your options, call us anytime at 423-485-0911.
