How much does a green burial cost?

Green burial typically runs $1,500–$5,000, often less than a conventional burial because it skips embalming, a metal casket, and a concrete vault. The main costs are the natural-burial plot and a simple shroud or biodegradable casket.

What makes a burial 'green'?

No embalming with formaldehyde, a biodegradable container (a shroud or untreated wood/wicker casket), and no concrete vault — so the body can decompose naturally. Many green burial grounds also protect the surrounding land as conservation space.

Is green burial legal everywhere?

Natural burial is legal across the US, but you need a cemetery that permits it — a dedicated natural-burial ground or a conventional cemetery with a green section that waives the vault requirement. Availability varies by area.

Service

Green burial: cost & options

Green (natural) burial forgoes embalming, a metal casket, and a concrete vault — the body is buried in a biodegradable shroud or casket so it can return to the earth. It often costs less than a conventional burial, typically $1,500–$5,000 depending on the burial ground and casket.

Green burial avoids the vault, embalming, and manufactured casket that drive up a conventional burial's price and environmental impact. Availability depends on local natural-burial grounds or hybrid cemetery sections that allow it.

What's typically included

Transfer of the deceased into the provider's care
Preparation without chemical embalming
A biodegradable shroud or casket
Burial in a natural or hybrid cemetery section
Coordination of permits and paperwork

Often not included

The plot fee charged by the burial ground
Opening and closing the grave
A natural grave marker, where permitted
Certified copies of the death certificate

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Common questions

How much does a green burial cost?: Green burial typically runs $1,500–$5,000, often less than a conventional burial because it skips embalming, a metal casket, and a concrete vault. The main costs are the natural-burial plot and a simple shroud or biodegradable casket.
What makes a burial 'green'?: No embalming with formaldehyde, a biodegradable container (a shroud or untreated wood/wicker casket), and no concrete vault — so the body can decompose naturally. Many green burial grounds also protect the surrounding land as conservation space.
Is green burial legal everywhere?: Natural burial is legal across the US, but you need a cemetery that permits it — a dedicated natural-burial ground or a conventional cemetery with a green section that waives the vault requirement. Availability varies by area.

Other services

Prices are national ranges for general guidance only — not a quote. Providers must give you an itemized price list under the FTC Funeral Rule.