Author: Affordable Cremations of Central Florida
Published: October 2026
Address: 326 S Falkenburg Road, Tampa, FL 33619 | Phone: (813) 647-3689
When planning end-of-life arrangements, cost and financial clarity are among the most pressing concerns for families. In the Tampa Bay area, the cost of cremation can vary wildly—ranging from under $800 to more than $3,000 depending on the facility, hidden add-ons, and service options you select.
In Tampa, Florida, the average cost of direct cremation ranges between $795 and $2,200. At Affordable Cremations of Central Florida, our all-inclusive direct cremation package is $795 complete, with zero hidden fees or unexpected surcharges.
Understanding what is—and isn’t—included in a cremation quote allows families to make informed, dignified decisions without financial stress.
What Is Direct Cremation?
Direct cremation is the simple, dignified process where the deceased is cremated shortly after death without a formal pre-cremation viewing, embalming, or traditional funeral service.
Because direct cremation eliminates expensive body preparation, cosmetic embalming, room rentals, and ornate caskets, it is the most cost-effective final disposition option available in Florida. Families retain total flexibility to hold a memorial service, celebration of life, or ash scattering at a venue or time of their choosing.
Itemized Fee Breakdown: What’s Included in $795 Direct Cremation?
When evaluating cremation providers in Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Polk counties, always request an itemized breakdown. Some low advertised rates omit essential statutory requirements or administrative fees.
Below is a breakdown of what a complete direct cremation package includes at Affordable Cremations of Central Florida:
| Service Item | Typical Funeral Home Cost | Affordable Cremations of Central Florida |
| Basic Professional Services & Staff | $500 – $1,200 | Included |
| Local Transfer into Care (Initial Transport) | $250 – $450 | Included |
| Climate-Controlled Shelter & Care | $150 – $350 | Included |
| Alternative Container for Cremation | $75 – $200 | Included |
| Crematory Fee | $250 – $500 | Included |
| District Medical Examiner Permit Fee | $50 – $100 | Included |
| Basic Temporary Urn | $50 – $150 | Included |
| Filing of Death Certificate & Social Security Notice | $75 – $150 | Included |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,400 – $3,100+ | $795 Complete |
Third-Party & Government Fees to Keep in Mind
While our $795 package covers all direct cremation operations, certain third-party government charges are set directly by state or county agencies:
Certified Florida Death Certificates: Issued by the Florida Department of Health (Hillsborough County Health Dept. charge is typically $10 per certified copy). These are necessary for closing bank accounts, real estate transfers, and probate.
Obituaries: Publishing a formal obituary in local newspapers (such as the Tampa Bay Times) is optional and billed directly by the publisher.
Mailing of Cremated Remains: If a family cannot pick up ashes at our Tampa office, secure USPS Priority Mail Express shipping within the United States can be arranged for an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation Costs in Tampa
Are there any hidden fees or unexpected charges?
No. At Affordable Cremations of Central Florida, we pride ourselves on complete pricing transparency. The price quoted is the final price for our direct cremation services.
Does Medicare or Social Security cover cremation costs in Florida?
Medicare does not cover funeral or cremation expenses. However, eligible surviving spouses or dependent children may receive a one-time $255 lump-sum death payment from the Social Security Administration (SSA). We assist families by notifying Social Security immediately upon taking your loved one into our care.
Does the Medical Examiner fee cost extra in Hillsborough County?
In many Tampa cremation packages, providers bill the District Medical Examiner (District 13) review fee separately. At Affordable Cremations of Central Florida, the required Medical Examiner approval fee is built directly into our $795 package price.
Can I complete the arrangement process online?
Yes. Our entire arrangement process—from signing state-required authorizations to submitting vital statistics—can be completed 100% online from any smartphone, tablet, or computer. You are also welcome to meet with us in person at our Tampa office.
When you call us, you speak directly with our owner, Noah Daniel—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Office Location: 326 S Falkenburg Road, Tampa, FL 33619
Direct Phone: (813) 647-3689
Arrangements: Available in-person or 100% online