Montevista | San Francisco Cemeteries: Complete Directory and Guide
San Francisco Cemeteries: Complete Directory and Guide
San Francisco’s cemetery environment is unique among American cities. Due to an 1900 ordinance banning burials within city limits, most San Francisco families choosing burial must look to Colma, the small town 15 miles south that became home to relocated cemeteries and earned the nickname “City of the Silent.”
This guide helps San Francisco families understand their cemetery options, from the few remaining historic cemeteries in SF to the extensive Colma options, providing costs, features, and guidance for choosing the right final resting place.
Why San Francisco Has No Active Cemeteries
Understanding SF’s unique cemetery history clarifies today’s options.
The 1900 Burial Ban
In 1900, San Francisco prohibited burials within city limits due to:
- Land Scarcity: Valuable real estate needed for housing and development
- Public Health Concerns: 19th-century fears about groundwater contamination
- Cemetery Space: Existing cemeteries filled to capacity
- Urban Expansion: City growing, cemeteries occupying prime land
The Colma Migration
Between 1912-1940, San Francisco relocated most cemetery remains to Colma:
- Approximately 150,000 remains moved from SF to Colma
- Cemeteries relocated: Laurel Hill, Calvary, Odd Fellows, Masonic
- Colma’s transformation: Small town became cemetery city
- Current Status: Colma has 17 cemeteries, far more cemeteries than the living population
What Remains in San Francisco
San Francisco National Cemetery (Presidio) – Military cemetery for veterans – Closed to most new burials – Historic landmark status
Mission Dolores Cemetery – San Francisco’s oldest cemetery (1776) – Extremely limited availability – Historic landmark
Columbarium – Cremation niches only – Limited availability – Architectural landmark
Colma Cemeteries: Primary Option for SF Families
Colma’s 17 cemeteries serve San Francisco families across all traditions.
Cypress Lawn Memorial Park
History: Established 1892, one of California’s most beautiful cemeteries
Features: – 150+ acres of landscaped grounds – Elaborate monuments and mausoleums – Colonnades and architectural features – Lake and rolling hills – Historic significance with many prominent San Franciscans
Services: – Ground burial plots – Mausoleum crypts (indoor and outdoor) – Cremation niches and gardens – Pre-planning services
Sections: – Non-denominational main sections – Jewish section – Chinese section – Various garden themes
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $8,000-$20,000+ depending on location – Mausoleum Crypts: $12,000-$35,000+ – Cremation Niches: $3,000-$6,000 – Opening/Closing: $2,000-$3,000
Distance from SF: 15 miles, 25-35 minutes via I-280
Why SF Families Choose Cypress Lawn: Historic prestige, beautiful grounds, comprehensive options, professional management
Contact: www.cypresslawn.com
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
Denomination: Roman Catholic
History: Established 1887, serving San Francisco’s Catholic community
Features: – Traditional Catholic cemetery symbols and design – Religious statuary and grottos – Peaceful landscaping – Perpetual care
Services: – Ground burial for baptized Catholics – Mausoleum entombment – Cremation niches (Catholic Church now permits cremation) – Coordination with Catholic funeral Masses
Requirements: – Proof of Catholic baptism typically required – Catholic funeral rites usually expected – Archbishop’s permission for special cases
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $7,000-$14,000 – Mausoleum Crypts: $10,000-$25,000 – Cremation Niches: $2,500-$5,000 – Opening/Closing: $1,800-$2,800
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Why SF Catholic Families Choose Holy Cross: Religious tradition, Catholic symbols and blessings, community of faith
Hills of Eternity Memorial Park
Denomination: Jewish
History: Established 1889, serving San Francisco’s Jewish community
Features: – Traditional Jewish cemetery practices – Sections for Orthodox and Reform – Jewish symbols and monuments – Views of San Francisco Bay
Services: – Ground burial following Jewish law – Chevra Kadisha (burial society) coordination – Prompt burial as required by tradition – Perpetual care
Requirements: – Proof of Jewish heritage typically required – Traditional Jewish burial practices followed – Orientation and customs per Jewish law
Sections: – Orthodox section (simpler monuments) – Reform section (more elaborate monuments allowed) – Various congregation-specific sections
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $8,000-$18,000 – Opening/Closing: $2,000-$3,200 – Monuments: Per Jewish cemetery regulations
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Why SF Jewish Families Choose Hills of Eternity: Jewish tradition, proximity to SF, established community, proper Jewish burial
Home of Peace Cemetery
Denomination: Jewish (Orthodox)
History: Established 1889 for Orthodox community
Features: – Strictly Orthodox Jewish practices – Traditional Jewish monuments – Separate men’s and women’s sections (in Orthodox portions) – Proper Jewish burial customs
Services: – Orthodox Jewish burials – Coordination with Orthodox Chevra Kadisha – Traditional tahara facilities – Perpetual care
Requirements: – Orthodox Jewish affiliation – Adherence to Orthodox burial practices – Rabbinical approval may be required
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $7,000-$15,000 – Opening/Closing: $2,000-$3,000
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Olivet Memorial Park
Denomination: Non-sectarian
History: Established 1887
Features: – Peaceful gardens and landscaping – Diverse community – Traditional and modern sections – Well-maintained grounds
Services: – Ground burial – Mausoleum entombment – Cremation niches and gardens – Pre-need planning
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $6,000-$12,000 (more affordable than some Colma options) – Mausoleum Crypts: $9,000-$20,000 – Cremation Niches: $2,500-$5,000 – Opening/Closing: $1,800-$2,500
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Why SF Families Choose Olivet: Non-denominational acceptance, good value, comprehensive services
Woodlawn Memorial Park
Denomination: Non-sectarian
History: Established 1890s
Features: – Large cemetery with diverse sections – Various garden themes – Both traditional and modern options – Spacious grounds
Services: – Ground burial – Lawn crypts – Mausoleum – Cremation options
Pricing: – Burial Plots: $5,000-$10,000 (among more affordable Colma options) – Mausoleum Crypts: $8,000-$18,000 – Cremation Niches: $2,000-$4,500 – Opening/Closing: $1,600-$2,400
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Why SF Families Choose Woodlawn: Affordability, spacious grounds, variety of options
Italian Cemetery
Community: Italian-American
History: Relocated from North Beach in early 1900s
Features: – Italian cultural traditions – Elaborate Italian-style monuments – Community-focused – Preserves Italian heritage
Services: – Ground burial (primarily Italian-American families) – Traditional Italian funeral customs supported – Perpetual care
Requirements: – Italian heritage (historically, though sometimes flexible) – May require membership or family connection
Pricing: – Contact cemetery for current rates – Generally mid-range for Colma
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Chinese Cemetery
Community: Chinese-American
History: Established to serve SF’s Chinese community
Features: – Traditional Chinese cemetery design – Feng shui considerations in layout – Chinese architectural elements – Qingming (Tomb Sweeping Day) observances
Services: – Ground burial following Chinese customs – Traditional Chinese funeral coordination – Respect for Chinese cultural practices
Cultural Practices: – Orientation of graves per feng shui – Specific offerings and ceremonies – Annual Qingming observances in April – Burning of joss paper and offerings
Pricing: – Contact cemetery for current rates
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Greek Orthodox Memorial Park
Denomination: Greek Orthodox
History: Serves Greek Orthodox community
Features: – Orthodox Christian symbols – Greek cultural traditions – Community cemetery
Services: – Ground burial for Orthodox Christians – Coordination with Greek Orthodox funeral rites – Traditional Orthodox customs
Requirements: – Greek Orthodox affiliation typically required – Orthodox funeral service expected
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Serbian Cemetery
Community: Serbian Orthodox
Features: – Preserves Serbian cultural heritage – Orthodox Christian traditions – Community focus
Services: – Ground burial for Serbian community – Orthodox funeral coordination
Distance from SF: 15 miles via I-280
Additional Colma Cemeteries
Eternal Home Cemetery: Serves diverse community Golden Gate National Cemetery: Veterans (located in San Bruno, near Colma) Japanese Cemetery: Japanese-American community Sunset View Cemetery: Non-sectarian
San Francisco Cemetery Options (Limited)
San Francisco National Cemetery
Location: Presidio of San Francisco Type: Military cemetery Established: 1884
Eligibility: – Veterans with honorable discharge – Spouses and eligible dependents of veterans – Some special cases (Medal of Honor recipients, etc.)
Current Status: – Closed to new casket burials (limited exceptions) – Cremation burials accepted for eligible veterans – Limited niche space in columbarium
Services: – Ground burial (when eligible) – Columbarium niches for cremated remains – Military honors coordination – Headstone provided by VA
Cost: – Free for eligible veterans and spouses (plot, opening/closing, headstone, perpetual care)
Location Benefits: – Beautiful Presidio location – San Francisco Bay views – Historic significance – Within SF city limits
Apply: – Through National Cemetery Scheduling Office – Requires veteran’s DD-214 and death certificate – Can pre-apply for eligibility determination
Contact: 650-589-7737 (manages multiple Bay Area national cemeteries)
Mission Dolores Cemetery
Location: Mission District, adjacent to Mission Dolores Basilica Established: 1776 (San Francisco’s oldest cemetery)
Status: – Extremely limited availability – Primarily for those with existing family plots – Historic landmark, not actively selling plots
Significance: – First cemetery in San Francisco – Buried: Californios, early SF settlers, notable figures – Part of Mission Dolores historic complex
Availability: – Contact Mission Dolores Basilica for rare vacancies – Generally not an option for most families
Neptune Society Columbarium
Location: Loraine Court (near Richmond District) Type: Cremation niches only
Features: – Beautiful Victorian-era architecture – Copper urns in niches – Rotating display of urns – Architectural landmark
Services: – Cremation niches (sold through Neptune Society) – No ground burial – Regular hours for visiting and viewing
Pricing: – Niches: $3,000-$5,000 – Must use Neptune Society for cremation services (package deal)
Why SF Families Choose: – Stay within San Francisco city limits – Beautiful, unique architectural setting – Convenient SF location
Limitations: – Cremation only (no burial) – Must use Neptune Society services – Limited availability
Comparing Cemetery Costs
Understanding full costs helps budget appropriately.
Ground Burial Total Costs (Colma)
Components: 1. Cemetery Plot: $5,000-$20,000 2. Opening and Closing: $1,600-$3,200 3. Grave Liner or Vault: $1,200-$3,500 4. Headstone/Monument: $1,500-$8,000+ 5. Endowment/Perpetual Care: Usually included in plot price
Total: $9,300-$34,700+
Typical SF Family Costs: $12,000-$18,000 (mid-range choices)
Mausoleum Entombment Costs (Colma)
Components: 1. Crypt Purchase: $8,000-$35,000+ (location and tier dependent) 2. Entombment Fee: $1,500-$2,500 3. Marker/Inscription: $500-$1,500
Total: $10,000-$39,000+
Typical: $15,000-$25,000
Cremation Options Costs (Colma)
Columbarium Niche: 1. Niche Purchase: $2,000-$6,000 2. Inurnment Fee: $300-$600 3. Inscription: $200-$500
Total: $2,500-$7,100
In-Ground Cremation Burial: 1. Cremation Plot: $1,500-$4,000 2. Opening/Closing: $500-$900 3. Marker: $800-$3,000
Total: $2,800-$7,900
Scattering Garden: 1. Scattering Rights: $500-$1,800 2. Memorial Plaque (optional): $300-$800
Total: $500-$2,600
Choosing the Right Cemetery
Consider these factors when selecting a cemetery.
Religious and Cultural Fit
- Does the cemetery honor your faith tradition?
- Are religious symbols and customs respected?
- Is the community your community?
- Do monument rules align with religious requirements?
Location and Accessibility
Colma Considerations: – 15 miles from SF (25-40 minutes depending on traffic) – Easy access via I-280 or Hwy 101 – All cemeteries clustered in small area – Can visit multiple to compare
SF National Cemetery: – Within SF (Presidio) – Limited availability – Beautiful location if eligible
Cost Considerations
More Affordable Colma Options: – Woodlawn Memorial Park – Olivet Memorial Park
Higher-End Options: – Cypress Lawn – Holy Cross (Catholic)
Mid-Range: – Most other Colma cemeteries
Services and Amenities
Consider: – On-site chapel for graveside services – Reception facilities – Flower availability on-site – Restrooms and visitor amenities – Benches and shade – Water for flowers – Security and maintenance quality
Perpetual Care
All Colma cemeteries include perpetual care: – General grounds maintenance – Road and path upkeep – Common area landscaping – Long-term sustainability
What perpetual care doesn’t cover: – Individual grave care – Replacing damaged monuments – Fresh flowers (family responsibility)
Pre-Planning Advantages
Lock in Prices: – Cemetery plot prices rise 3-5% annually – Pre-purchase protects against inflation – Save thousands over 10-20 years
Choose Exact Location: – Select specific section and plot – Time to compare options – Visit in person without pressure
Relieve Family Burden: – No difficult decisions during grief – Clear wishes documented – Payments handled in advance
Alternative: Monte Vista Memorial Gardens
Location: Livermore (45 minutes from SF via I-580)
Many San Francisco families choose Monte Vista as an alternative to Colma:
Why SF Families Choose Monte Vista:
- One Location: Cemetery and crematory coordinated (no SF-to-Colma procession)
- Cost Savings: 20-30% less than Colma options
- Outdoor Setting: Peaceful Livermore outdoor grounds away from urban density
- Cultural Inclusivity: Authentic service to Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Catholic, secular families
- Pre-Planning: Lock in current prices, payment plans available
Services: – Ground burial plots: $4,500-$7,500 – In-ground cremation burial – Our team can help coordinate memorial arrangements
Contact: 510-299-1174
Making Your Cemetery Decision
Choosing a final resting place is deeply personal.
Visit in Person: – Walk the grounds – Assess maintenance and beauty – Visualize yourself or family visiting – Feel the atmosphere
Ask Questions: – What’s included in plot price? – What are monument restrictions? – What are decoration policies? – What are visiting hours? – Can I select exact plot location?
Consider Long-Term: – Who will visit over coming decades? – Is location accessible as you age? – Will the cemetery be well-maintained long-term?
Trust Your Feelings: – The right choice often feels peaceful – Honor your cultural and religious values – Choose what brings your family comfort
San Francisco Cemetery Resources
San Francisco families have quality options from Colma’s historic cemeteries to alternatives like Monte Vista Memorial Gardens. Understanding costs, locations, and services helps you make informed decisions for your family.
Whether you choose a Colma cemetery near San Francisco, qualify for the SF National Cemetery, or select an integrated option like Monte Vista in Livermore, the key is finding a peaceful, beautiful final resting place that honors your loved one and serves your family’s needs.
Monte Vista welcomes San Francisco families seeking burial services, cultural respect, and peaceful outdoor grounds. Our Livermore location provides convenient access from SF while offering significant cost savings.
Call 510-299-1174 to learn about cemetery options, discuss burial plots, or plan ahead. We’re here to answer questions and provide information without pressure.