Funeral Costs in Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa funeral homes serve both English and French-speaking families across the National Capital Region. Bilingual services are common. The city offers a stable market with established providers and moderate pricing compared to Toronto.

In Ottawa, direct cremation typically costs $1,600 - $3,500, while a full burial funeral often ranges from $6,800 - $13,000 before cemetery fees.

Last updated: January 2026

Quick costs for Ottawa

Direct Cremation

$1,600 - $3,500

Cremation + Service

$4,000 - $7,500

Traditional Burial

$6,800 - $13,000

9 Providers

Licensed

Prices vary by provider. Request a General Price List (GPL) for exact costs.

Typical funeral costs in Ottawa

Direct Cremation

$1,600 - $3,500

Typical: $2,400

No viewing. Cremation only. Ashes returned.

Cremation with Memorial

$4,000 - $7,500

Typical: $5,300

Includes service, visitation optional.

Traditional Burial

$6,800 - $13,000

Typical: $9,000

Casket, viewing, service, burial. Cemetery extra.

Transfer Service Only

$800 - $1,500

Typical: $1,100

For out-of-province or repatriation.

Ottawa funeral costs are 10-20% below Toronto. The market is stable with less price variation between providers than in competitive GTA markets.

What affects funeral prices in Ottawa

Bilingual (English/French) services are standard at most Ottawa funeral homes.

Federal government employee benefits sometimes include funeral coverage, affecting purchasing decisions.

Ottawa is geographically separate from the GTA, creating a distinct local market.

Winter conditions affect timing. Ground burial may be delayed; cremation is more common in cold months.

The federal capital has a significant military presence with specific veteran funeral traditions.

Cremation vs burial in Ottawa

Cremation is now the choice for most Ontario families. In Ottawa, direct cremation costs $1,600 - $3,500, while traditional burial runs $6,800 - $13,000 before cemetery costs.

Cemetery plots in Ottawa 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 Ottawa funeral homes offer cremation packages that include visitation, a ceremony, and return of ashes.

Read our full cremation vs burial comparison

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.
See full disclosure requirements

How to compare funeral quotes in Ottawa

Getting quotes from 2-3 funeral homes can save you thousands of dollars. Here is how to compare fairly:

  1. 1.Request the GPL from each provider. This is the standard price list all funeral homes must provide.
  2. 2.Compare like with like. Make sure you are comparing the same services. Direct cremation prices should include the same basic elements.
  3. 3.Ask about extras. Some providers charge separately for items others include. Ask about documentation fees, urn costs, and death certificates.
  4. 4.Check cemetery costs. If burial is planned, cemetery fees are separate. Get quotes from the cemetery too.

Funeral homes in Ottawa

Filter by service type or religious tradition. Prices vary by provider. Request the GPL (price list) for exact costs.

9 funeral homes in Ottawa

Questions about Ottawa funeral costs

How much does a funeral cost in Ottawa?
Direct cremation in Ottawa costs $1,600 - $3,500. Traditional burial with services runs $6,800 - $13,000. The final cost depends on the funeral home you choose and the services included.
What is the cheapest funeral option in Ottawa?
Direct cremation is the lowest-cost option at $1,600 - $3,500. This includes basic services, transportation, cremation, and return of ashes. No viewing or ceremony is required.
How many funeral homes are in Ottawa?
Ottawa has licensed funeral homes serving the community. Our directory currently lists 9 Ottawa providers, with additional homes added over time. We recommend getting quotes from 2-3 providers.
Do Ottawa 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.
Do Ottawa funeral homes offer French-language services?
Yes. Most Ottawa funeral homes provide fully bilingual services in English and French. Staff, ceremonies, and documentation can be in either language. Some homes specialize in French-speaking families.

What to do next

If you are arranging a funeral in Ottawa, here are practical steps:

1. Decide on cremation or burial

This is the biggest cost factor. Direct cremation starts around $2,400. Burial with services typically costs $9,000 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