Cremation Cost in Des Moines, Iowa

The average cost of direct cremation in Des Moines, Iowa is $1,192, which is 45.4% below the national average of $2,183. Cremation with a full service starts at $4,950.

In Iowa, 48% of families choose cremation — near the national rate of 61.8%. Choosing cremation can save families $7,108 compared to a traditional burial.

Cremation Options in Des Moines, IA

Direct Cremation ($1,192): The most affordable option. Includes basic services, transportation, cremation process, and return of cremated remains. No viewing, embalming, or formal service. Ideal for families planning a private memorial later.

Cremation with Memorial Service ($4,950): Includes the cremation plus a formal memorial ceremony at the funeral home or other venue. The urn is present during the service. This allows family and friends to gather and pay respects.

Cremation with Viewing ($5,429): A traditional service with a viewing/visitation before cremation. Includes embalming, rental casket, ceremony, and cremation. Similar to a traditional funeral but with cremation instead of burial.

Alkaline Hydrolysis ($2,492): Also called water cremation or aquamation. An eco-friendly alternative that uses water and alkali instead of flame. Uses 90% less energy than traditional cremation. Available in select locations in Iowa.

The Cremation Process

The cremation process in Des Moines typically takes 2-3 hours at temperatures between 1,400-1,800°F. After cooling, the remains are processed into fine particles (cremated remains or "ashes") weighing 4-8 pounds for an average adult.

Before cremation, all metal (pacemakers, implants, jewelry) must be removed. Most crematories in Iowa require a 24-48 hour waiting period after death before cremation can proceed. The entire process from death to return of remains usually takes 3-7 business days.

Families receive the cremated remains in a temporary container or the urn they purchased. Options for the remains include keeping them at home, scattering at a meaningful location, burial in a cemetery, placement in a columbarium niche, or creating memorial jewelry or art.

Pet Cremation in Des Moines, IA

Pet cremation is also available in Des Moines, Iowa. There are two main types:

Private Pet Cremation — your pet is cremated individually, and you receive their ashes. Costs range from $116 for small pets (under 30 lbs) to $267 for large pets (over 70 lbs). Medium-sized pets typically cost $192.

Communal Pet Cremation — multiple pets are cremated together. This is the most affordable option at $50-$150 but ashes are not returned. Many veterinary clinics in Des Moines can arrange pet cremation services.

Tips to Save on Cremation in Des Moines

• Choose direct cremation: At $1,192, it's the most affordable option — saving $7,108 vs. traditional burial and $3,758 vs. cremation with service.
• Compare 3+ providers: Cremation costs in Des Moines vary significantly between providers. The FTC Funeral Rule requires price lists. Get at least 3 quotes.
• Skip the expensive urn: A basic urn costs $222. You can use any container — a decorative box, ceramic jar, or biodegradable urn for scattering ($20-$50).
• Consider a cremation society: Membership organizations that pre-negotiate cremation rates. Members often save 20-40% on direct cremation.
• Pre-plan at today's prices: Lock in current rates with a prepaid cremation plan. Cremation costs rise 3-5% annually.
• Check for veteran benefits: Veterans may receive a $300 cremation allowance plus a free urn or marker from the VA.
• Ask about payment plans: Many cremation providers in Des Moines offer interest-free payment plans for families who need financial flexibility.