From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
Funeral Costs in Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton funeral homes include both long-established family businesses and newer providers. The city has more independent operators than the GTA, and costs tend to be lower. Competition between providers benefits families looking for value.
In Hamilton, direct cremation typically costs $1,500 - $3,200, while a full burial funeral often ranges from $6,500 - $12,000 before cemetery fees.
Last updated: January 2026
Quick costs for Hamilton
Direct Cremation
$1,500 - $3,200
Cremation + Service
$3,800 - $7,000
Traditional Burial
$6,500 - $12,000
7 Providers
Licensed
Prices vary by provider. Request a General Price List (GPL) for exact costs.
Typical funeral costs in Hamilton
Direct Cremation
$1,500 - $3,200
Typical: $2,200
No viewing. Cremation only. Ashes returned.
Cremation with Memorial
$3,800 - $7,000
Typical: $5,000
Includes service, visitation optional.
Traditional Burial
$6,500 - $12,000
Typical: $8,500
Casket, viewing, service, burial. Cemetery extra.
Transfer Service Only
$800 - $1,500
Typical: $1,100
For out-of-province or repatriation.
Hamilton funeral costs run 15-25% below Toronto. Families from the GTA sometimes choose Hamilton providers to reduce expenses.
What affects funeral prices in Hamilton
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More independent, family-owned funeral homes means greater pricing flexibility than corporate-dominated markets.
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Lower commercial real estate costs translate to lower funeral home overhead and pricing.
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Hamilton's working-class heritage influences the market toward practical, value-oriented services.
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Several cemeteries serve the area with plot costs well below GTA prices.
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Some families explore green or natural burial options in the broader region.
Cremation vs burial in Hamilton
Cremation is now the choice for most Ontario families. In Hamilton, direct cremation costs $1,500 - $3,200, while traditional burial runs $6,500 - $12,000 before cemetery costs.
Cemetery plots in Hamilton typically cost $2,000-$8,000 depending on location and type. Opening and closing fees add $800-$1,500. These costs are separate from funeral home charges.
Families choosing cremation can still hold a full memorial service. Many Hamilton funeral homes offer cremation packages that include visitation, a ceremony, and return of ashes.
Your rights when choosing a funeral home
Ontario funeral homes are regulated by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO). You have legal rights when arranging services:
- •Price disclosure: Funeral homes must provide a General Price List (GPL) when you ask. They cannot refuse.
- •Phone quotes: You can get prices over the phone. You do not need to visit in person.
- •Itemized contracts: Your contract must list each service and its cost separately.
- •No pressure: You have 30 days to cancel a prepaid funeral contract without penalty.
How to compare funeral quotes in Hamilton
Getting quotes from 2-3 funeral homes can save you thousands of dollars. Here is how to compare fairly:
- 1.Request the GPL from each provider. This is the standard price list all funeral homes must provide.
- 2.Compare like with like. Make sure you are comparing the same services. Direct cremation prices should include the same basic elements.
- 3.Ask about extras. Some providers charge separately for items others include. Ask about documentation fees, urn costs, and death certificates.
- 4.Check cemetery costs. If burial is planned, cemetery fees are separate. Get quotes from the cemetery too.
Funeral homes in Hamilton
Filter by service type or religious tradition. Prices vary by provider. Request the GPL (price list) for exact costs.
7 funeral homes in Hamilton
From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
From
$2,800
BAO Licensed
From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
From
$3,500
BAO Licensed
Questions about Hamilton funeral costs
How much does a funeral cost in Hamilton?
Direct cremation in Hamilton costs $1,500 - $3,200. Traditional burial with services runs $6,500 - $12,000. The final cost depends on the funeral home you choose and the services included.
What is the cheapest funeral option in Hamilton?
Direct cremation is the lowest-cost option at $1,500 - $3,200. This includes basic services, transportation, cremation, and return of ashes. No viewing or ceremony is required.
How many funeral homes are in Hamilton?
Hamilton has licensed funeral homes serving the community. Our directory currently lists 7 Hamilton providers, with additional homes added over time. We recommend getting quotes from 2-3 providers.
Do Hamilton funeral homes have to show me their prices?
Yes. Ontario funeral homes must provide a General Price List (GPL) when you ask. They cannot refuse to give prices over the phone. You have the right to an itemized quote before signing any contract.
Can I get funeral quotes over the phone?
Yes. Funeral homes can provide pricing information by phone, and families do not need to visit in person before requesting costs. This makes it easier to compare options.
Why are Hamilton funeral costs lower than Toronto?
Hamilton has lower commercial rents, more independent funeral homes, and a competitive market. These factors keep prices 15-25% below Toronto. Many families from the GTA use Hamilton providers to save money.
What to do next
If you are arranging a funeral in Hamilton, here are practical steps:
1. Decide on cremation or burial
This is the biggest cost factor. Direct cremation starts around $2,200. Burial with services typically costs $8,500 or more.
2. Call 2-3 funeral homes for quotes
Request the GPL from each. Compare the same services. Ask what is included and what costs extra.
3. Ask about timing
There is no rush. Ontario has no legal requirement for immediate burial or cremation. Take time to make decisions.
4. Check for benefits
CPP death benefit ($2,500), employer benefits, and veterans benefits may help with costs. See available benefits