Iowa › Dubuque
Compare Affordable
Dubuque Cremation Services
Direct cremation from $2,260. Compare 4 local providers, read real reviews, and get free quotes — no pressure.
Dubuque Cremation Costs — 2026
Prices vary widely. Here's what to expect in Dubuque.
$2,260–$3,475
No funeral service, simple container. The most affordable option.
$5,895–$6,655
Includes cremation plus a memorial or graveside service.
$8,335–$9,095
Viewing, funeral service, then cremation. Most comprehensive option.
Save Money on Cremation in Dubuque
Prices can vary by $1,000+ between providers in Dubuque. Always compare at least 3 quotes to ensure you're getting a fair price. Use our free quote form below to get started.
About Cremation in Dubuque, Iowa
Located in Iowa, Dubuque is a mid-to-large city of about 59,000+ people with a healthy selection of cremation options. Direct cremation here is priced at $2,260–$3,475, which is well above the national average. Residents appreciate both the quality and competitiveness of local cremation providers.
At $2,260–$3,475, direct cremation costs in Dubuque run above Des Moines's $1,925–$2,890 range. It's worth comparing providers across the area, as a short drive could yield significant savings.
Given that cremation pricing in Dubuque is among the highest in the region, it's worth investing extra time in research. Request itemized quotes, compare across cities, and don't feel pressured to decide quickly. We list 4 providers in Dubuque on this page to jumpstart your search.
Cremation in Iowa
Iowa's cremation market offers pricing well below the national average, with Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport providing the most provider options. Rural areas have fewer but still affordable choices.
Iowa Cremation Laws
Iowa requires a 48-hour waiting period before cremation. Written authorization from a designated agent and a filed death certificate are both required.
Money-Saving Tip
Iowa providers in smaller cities often have lower overhead and pass the savings on to families. Don't overlook providers in towns near your city for potentially better rates.
Cremation Providers in Dubuque, IA
Compare pricing, reviews, and contact info for local providers.
4 providers
Recent Google Reviews
Leonard came by recommendation from a dear friend after they were very flexible and accommodating for his family. Like many, I had only a few days to decide preferences. Eddie, Katie, and Kristin were extremely thoughtful and took great care to arrange everything according to my exacting standards. Emmas choice of music and help editing the obituary text was priceless. I was terrified to get my hopes up because I didnt want to be disappointed by anything that didnt go according to the vision I had for my mother. But the folks at Leonard made everything seamless and fulfilled the hope I had for peace and gratitude and beauty for all of the gifts my mother shared with me and with others. I am forever grateful to Leonards for such a joyful celebration of a beautiful life.
Emma and the team at Leonard Funeral Home were incredibly kind and thoughtful. Their care and attention to detail brought so much comfort, ensuring everything was perfect for my father's service. Im deeply grateful for their compassion and support and highly recommend them to anyone needing such care during a difficult time.
Very considerate and knowledgeable regarding the planning of our last wishes
Recent Google Reviews
Everything was top notch for us, from beginning to end. Your work there is the highest standard anyone could ask for. I will recommend you to anyone. All the staff was very helpful for any questions we had. ThanksTheresa for all that you did for us.
The entire staff was caring and wonderful to work with.
Theresa did a wonderful job of going through all of the arrangements and carrying them out to plan. Made some good suggestions and seemed very compassionate to our needs. The one negative comment I would interject was the fact that Im guessing the time was no later than 9:00 AM (the same morning as Dads passing) and there was a gentleman from Hoffman already calling wanting to see if we could meet for arrangements that same day. My Mom was rather disturbed by that. A little more time to mourn and reflect wouldve been nice. We proceeded to tell the caller that we were in no position at that time to schedule an appointment to make arrangements. Outside of that, we had no complaints with how everything was handled. Top notch!
Recent Google Reviews
From the moment I entrusted Frank to the care of Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, they treated him with a level of dignity, gentleness, and respect that brought real comfort me. Every step of the process was handled with quiet professionalism and genuine compassion. They understood that Frank was not just someone who had passed he was a man who had lived, loved, and mattered deeply. The staff, especially Call, guided me through decisions with patience, never rushing and always listening. They honored Franks service, his character, and the life he built. Prior to Franks passing their support made it clear that he would be in the hands of people who truly cared. In a time of grief, when everything felt heavy and uncertain, they created a sense of calm and steadiness. Their kindness made an unbearable moment a little more bearable. For that, I am deeply grateful. Frank deserved dignity, respect, and tenderness and that is exactly what he received. Thank you.
Having our son, Mark's service at Eaglehoff, Siegert & Casper, was so caring and personable, that we felt very at ease during such a sad time. The staff was so consoling, I didn't even feel uneasy, even when I was falling apart. Thank you all so much for helping to make my son's service a celebration. Thank you to Alonza for your kindness, and doing such a great job on my necklace..I Love it. Loras and Sue Kluesner
The service provided by Egelhof, Siegert & Casper was exceptional. Every detail was taken care of via phone, email, and text due to family no longer living in Dubuque.
Recent Google Reviews
Recently my sister in law passed away. Kevin and the staff at Behrs were so caring and helpful. Really going all the way back to my childhood, Behr has been there for us. Thank youd
I recently met with Staff to make a Funeral Plan. It was very friendly, informative, and greatly satisfied with the selections and resulting Funeral Plan. Thank you!
We have a family tradition of asking Behrs to care for our loved ones dating back several decades, and there is a good reason for this. They are always helpful, compassionate, and dignified in the services that they provide.
How to Choose a Cremation Provider in Dubuque
5 Questions to Ask
- 1.What's your total price for direct cremation, including all fees?
- 2.Are you licensed in Iowa?
- 3.How long does the cremation process take?
- 4.What payment options do you offer?
- 5.Can I see recent customer reviews?
Red Flags to Watch For
- ✗Refusing to provide itemized pricing
- ✗Pressure to decide immediately
- ✗No physical address or phone number
- ✗Unlicensed or unverified credentials
- ✗Hidden fees not disclosed upfront
Get Free Quotes from Dubuque Providers
No pressure. Compare quotes from local, licensed providers.
Dubuque Cremation FAQs
How much does cremation cost in Dubuque?
Direct cremation in Dubuque, Iowa ranges from $2,260–$3,475 based on current provider listings. Prices vary by provider, so we recommend comparing at least 3 quotes.
What is the cheapest cremation option in Dubuque?
Direct cremation (no funeral service) is the most affordable option, starting at $2,260 in Dubuque. Providers like Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing that covers transportation, a basic container, the cremation itself, and return of ashes.
How do I arrange a cremation in Dubuque?
Contact a licensed cremation provider in Dubuque directly. Most providers handle all arrangements including transportation, required permits, filing the death certificate, and returning the ashes. Many offer phone or online arrangements. You can compare 4 providers in Dubuque on this page.
Does Iowa require a waiting period before cremation?
Most states including Iowa require a waiting period of 24–48 hours after death before cremation can take place. Your cremation provider in Dubuque will handle all timing requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
Can I have a funeral service with cremation in Dubuque?
Yes. Many families in Dubuque choose a traditional funeral service before cremation, or a memorial service afterward. Cremation with memorial services starts around $5,895–$6,655 in Dubuque.
What is the difference between cremation and burial costs in Dubuque?
Cremation is significantly less expensive than traditional burial in Dubuque. Direct cremation starts at $2,260, while a traditional burial with casket, vault, and cemetery plot typically costs $7,000–$12,000 or more. Cremation also eliminates ongoing cemetery maintenance fees.
How long does the cremation process take in Dubuque?
In Iowa, the entire cremation process typically takes 3–5 business days from when the funeral home receives the remains. This includes obtaining required permits and death certificates. The cremation itself takes 2–3 hours.
Do I need to buy an urn from the cremation provider?
No. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, cremation providers cannot require you to buy an urn from them. They must return ashes in a basic container at no extra charge. You can purchase an urn separately from any retailer, often at a lower price.
What happens to the ashes after cremation?
After cremation in Dubuque, the ashes (cremated remains) are returned to the family in an urn or basic container. Families can keep them at home, scatter them in a meaningful location (following local regulations), place them in a columbarium, or bury them in a cemetery.
Can I pre-plan or pre-pay for cremation in Dubuque?
Yes. Many cremation providers in Dubuque offer pre-planning and pre-payment options that let you lock in today's prices and relieve your family of making decisions during a difficult time. Contact providers directly to ask about their pre-arrangement plans.
Cremation Guides & Resources
Learn more about cremation costs, planning, and options.
Affordable Cremation: How to Find Low-Cost Services
Find affordable cremation services near you. Learn practical strategies to reduce cremation costs, access assistance programs, and compare low-cost providers.
Planning & PreparationHow to Arrange Cremation from Out of State
Learn how to arrange cremation services from out of state, including interstate regulations, shipping remains, remote arrangements, and transportation costs.
Cremation CostsCheapest Direct Cremation: Find the Lowest Price
Find the cheapest direct cremation near you. Compare the lowest-cost providers, learn what's included, and get real pricing data to save hundreds in 2026.
Cremation OptionsPet Cremation vs. Burial: Which Option Is Right?
Compare pet cremation vs. burial options including cost, legality, environmental impact, and emotional factors. Find the right choice for your pet.
Planning & PreparationComparing Cremation Packages: What to Look For
Learn how to compare cremation packages and services, what basic vs. premium packages include, pricing tips, and your FTC Funeral Rule protections in 2026.
Cremation CostsUsing Life Insurance to Pay for Cremation
Learn how life insurance can cover cremation costs, including how to file claims, assignment of benefits, final expense policies, and alternative funding options.
Cremation Services in Other Iowa Cities
Compare cremation costs in nearby Iowa cities.
Ready to Compare Cremation Prices in Dubuque?
Get free, no-pressure quotes from local licensed providers.
Get Free Quotes