How Big Should an Urn Be? Finding the Right Urn Size

Cremation Society of Milwaukee • October 9, 2022

Key Takeaways:

  • For every pound of a dead body's total weight, you'll need one cubic measure. 
  • The size of an urn can vary, but the most common size is around 8-10 inches in height and 5-6 inches in diameter.
  • After cremation, the ashes weigh about 3-5 pounds and can be buried, given to family, or scattered.


When someone dies, one of the first decisions their loved ones have to make is what to do with the person's ashes. One option is to bury them, but many people are opting for urns instead. But how big should an urn be? That depends on how much remains of the person after they die. 


Here's a guide to help you choose the right size urn for your needs.

direct cremation in Whitefish Bay, WI

Every little detail matters when it comes to selecting the right urn for you and your family. Deciding on the right size is part of that. That may sound strange at first, but there really are a few reasons to think about the size of the urn in question. Figuring this out is part of the process, and that process may involve speaking with an expert. If you or someone you know is looking into direct cremation in or near Whitefish Bay, WI, you should know that someone in your area can work with you whenever you have questions about things like cremation, cremated remains, urns, or other containers. You shouldn’t remain in the dark, and you deserve answers to these kinds of questions. 


Cremation Society of Milwaukee is all about your right to information. You have a right to accurate and complete information, especially when it comes to making important decisions that affect you and others alike. So we are here for you. We take your questions and concerns very seriously. You may want to know more about how cremation works, for example. Before making any firm commitment, that kind of thing may be pretty essential. We can help answer those kinds of questions. In the process, we will make sure that you are informed and ultimately more comfortable with the decision in question. Don’t be shy. We are never too busy for you, and no question is too small. We know where you are coming from, and we really do care. 


Urns do come in different sizes. Understanding that is important when it comes to thinking about your options and considering them in full. You don’t want to make any assumptions or rush through this process. This is a serious investment. Even though most urns are less expensive than your average casket, this is still a decision that will have lasting significance. So take your time. Review all of the relevant information. And then you can seriously take on the urn selection process. 


Urns may be adult-sized, medium, pendants, or even extra large. You will want to think about your needs before deciding which size is the best fit. Adult urns are the most common size, and they are designed to contain the remains of an average adult. That makes sense. Medium urns are generally smaller and designed for remains that may be distributed among several people. The idea is that each urn will contain some of those remains so that they aren’t all in one place. This allows multiple people to be a little bit closer to their loved one. Pendant urns are small and typically designed to be worn like jewelry. Finally, extra large urns are for taller or heavier adults. 


You have a number of options here. That’s the important thing. And you should give each of those options some serious thought before settling on a size that is right for you and your family.   


If you are interested in direct cremation in the Whitefish Bay, WI, area, consider reaching out to Cremation Society of Milwaukee. We are always available to discuss these kind of options in greater detail and even walk you through the cremation process so that you better understand what is going on. Give us a call whenever you are ready to talk. 


Urn Sizes FAQ


What is the standard size of an urn?


The size of an urn can vary, but the most common size is around 8-10 inches in height and 5-6 inches in diameter. However, urns can be as large or as small as you want them to be. It just depends on your personal preferences and what you
plan to do with the urn. If you're going to bury it, then a larger size might be better so that it doesn't get lost in the ground. But if you're going to keep it on display in your home, then a smaller size would probably be more appropriate.


What is the average volume of an urn?


Urns come in a variety of shapes and sizes
, but typically hold around 200 cubic inches, or 3.3 liters. This would be equivalent to the size of a gallon milk jug.


How many ashes are left after cremation?


The ashes left after cremation weigh about 3-5 pounds. The remains are placed in a temporary urn and then buried, given to the family, or scattered. If you choose to have the ashes kept in an urn, it is important to realize that the urn will not be full. Urns vary in size and the average weight of an urn is about 4.5 pounds which would hold just slightly more than a pound of ashes.



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