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Urbandale Cremation Services
Direct cremation from $2,385. Compare 2 local providers, read real reviews, and get free quotes — no pressure.
Urbandale Cremation Costs — 2026
Prices vary widely. Here's what to expect in Urbandale.
$2,385
No funeral service, simple container. The most affordable option.
$6,220
Includes cremation plus a memorial or graveside service.
$8,450
Viewing, funeral service, then cremation. Most comprehensive option.
Save Money on Cremation in Urbandale
Prices can vary by $1,000+ between providers in Urbandale. 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 Urbandale, Iowa
Urbandale, Iowa has around 44,000+ residents and a handful of cremation providers serving the area. Direct cremation costs here are $2,385 — among the highest in the state relative to state averages. Even in a mid-sized market, getting multiple quotes can help you find the best value.
Urbandale's direct cremation pricing ($2,385) is somewhat higher than Des Moines ($1,925–$2,890). Requesting quotes from providers in neighboring cities is a smart strategy for budget-conscious families.
Cremation in Urbandale is priced at the high end, so thorough comparison shopping is essential. Expand your search to providers in nearby cities and ask about their simplest direct cremation package — the savings can be substantial. We list 2 providers in Urbandale on this page as a starting point.
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 Urbandale, IA
Compare pricing, reviews, and contact info for local providers.
2 providers
Recent Google Reviews
My wife was diagnosed with Alzheimers five years ago at the age of 58. She spent the last two & a half years in a nursing home. I shopped the different nursing homes around the metro knowing her time was coming to an end. I stopped at Caldwell Parrish, John Parrish met with me and the two of us connected right away. It was tough decision for me doing a cremation or traditional burial. At the last minute I decided a traditional burial. I stopped to view my wife the day before the funeral and was amazed how well they prepared her. I asked to meet the person responsible for the embalming. I gave her a hug and thanked her for providing me the closure I needed. Caldwell Parish exceeded my expectations. I will recommend them to all my friends & family.
I cant say enough about the wonderful staff that walked us through our time of grieving. Katie was the best! She answered our calls, returned our texts, within minutes, and was very compassionate. The gals that took care of my mom did so with respect and dignity and she looked beautiful. Thank you so much for everything!
The reason I give Caldwell 5 stars Is my brother died in Dec, I live in Colorado, he lived in Iowa, even though you expect it, you don't, I didn't know where to start and the owner of Caldwell Funeral Home and Cremation in Urbandale Iowa, took the reigns and did everything for me. He is one of the kindest, most empathetic gentlemen I've ever met, he did all that and hadn't it met me and then he mailed me my brother's ashes. I can't thank you enough John for everything you did for me, you definitely took the burden off my shoulders. I will be eternally grateful to John and his employees. Thank you so much.
Direct Cremation
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How to Choose a Cremation Provider in Urbandale
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
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Urbandale Cremation FAQs
How much does cremation cost in Urbandale?
Direct cremation in Urbandale, Iowa ranges from $2,385 based on current provider listings. Prices vary by provider, so we recommend comparing at least 3 quotes.
What is the cheapest cremation option in Urbandale?
Direct cremation (no funeral service) is the most affordable option, starting at $2,385 in Urbandale. Providers like Caldwell Parrish 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 Urbandale?
Contact a licensed cremation provider in Urbandale 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 2 providers in Urbandale 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 Urbandale will handle all timing requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
Can I have a funeral service with cremation in Urbandale?
Yes. Many families in Urbandale choose a traditional funeral service before cremation, or a memorial service afterward. Cremation with memorial services starts around $6,220 in Urbandale.
What is the difference between cremation and burial costs in Urbandale?
Cremation is significantly less expensive than traditional burial in Urbandale. Direct cremation starts at $2,385, 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 Urbandale?
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 Urbandale, 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 Urbandale?
Yes. Many cremation providers in Urbandale 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
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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
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