U.S. cremation rate 1975-2024, with 2027 and 2045 forecast

The cremation rate in the United States increased steadily between 1975 and 2024. This figure was forecasted to grow to 65.2 percent by 2027.

Rise in popularity of cremation

Several factors have contributed to the increase in popularity of cremations in the United States. One of the most significant factors has been that cremation is often more affordable than traditional burial, primarily owing to lower costs associated with caskets, burial plots, and cemetery maintenance. The median cost of an adult funeral with a viewing and a burial, for example, has been increasing since 2014. Furthermore, the burial rate in the United States has decreased significantly since 2005.

Leading death care providers

The United States has been home to several large death care service providers. These companies have included Service Corporation International, headquartered in Houston, Texas. When broken down by segment, the largest revenue share of Service Corporation International has come from funeral services. Another Houston-based death care service provider is Carriage Services, with the company performing almost 50,000 funeral services in 2022.