How Much Does a Headstone Cost?

A headstone serves as a lasting memorial, marking a final resting place. The cost of a headstone can vary significantly, influenced by numerous factors related to its design, material, and the services required for its placement. Understanding these elements can help individuals make informed decisions during a challenging time.

Average Headstone Costs by Type

The type of headstone chosen significantly impacts its overall cost. Flat markers, also known as flush or grass markers, are typically set level with the ground and are among the most budget-friendly options. These can range from approximately $200 to $1,000 for a standard size. Double flat markers may cost between $1,249 and $1,999.

Slant markers, which stand upright at an angle, offer more visibility and space for inscriptions than flat markers. Their costs generally fall within a range of $949 to $3,500, depending on size and material. Upright monuments, traditional vertical markers, provide substantial space for customization and are priced between $1,000 and $6,000, with double upright headstones ranging from $1,999 to $5,000.

Bench memorials are stone benches designed for reflection. These memorials begin around $1,500 for a simple gray granite bench, with personalized designs costing between $3,000 and $6,000. Larger or more elaborate bench headstones can range from $6,000 to $40,000. For cremated remains, smaller, specialized options may be available, sometimes integrated into bench memorials or as smaller versions of other headstone types.

Factors Affecting Headstone Price

Beyond the basic type, several elements contribute to a headstone’s final price. Material choice is a significant factor; granite is most common due to its durability, color selection, and affordability. Standard granite colors like gray or black are less expensive, while exotic colors such as blue pearl or aurora red increase the cost due to rarity. Marble offers an elegant appearance but is softer than granite and may erode more over time, while bronze markers are generally more costly.

The dimensions and complexity of the headstone’s shape influence pricing, as larger or custom-carved designs require more material and labor. Intricate shapes demand specialized equipment and increased production time. The finish applied to the stone, such as polished surfaces or sandblasted textures, also has cost implications.

Engraving and customization impact the total expense. Basic lettering, including names and dates, starts around $200 to $400, but full inscriptions involve per-character fees ranging from $8 to $25 per letter. Additional artwork, such as symbols, simple etchings, or detailed carvings, add $150 to $500 or more, depending on complexity. Personalized elements like ceramic photos or vases incur additional charges.

Additional Costs to Consider

When purchasing a headstone, several other costs are involved beyond the memorial. A key consideration is the foundation and installation fee, as cemeteries often require a concrete foundation for stability. These fees vary widely, often ranging from $200 to $500 for the foundation setting, and some cemeteries may charge based on the monument’s base area. Installation prices range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the work and monument size.

Cemetery-specific fees also contribute to the overall cost. Many cemeteries charge a “setting fee” for headstone placement, covering labor and site preparation. These setting fees can range from a few hundred dollars depending on the cemetery and headstone type. Another common charge is a “perpetual care” or “endowment care” fee, a one-time payment for ongoing cemetery maintenance. This fee is often a percentage of the burial plot’s price, ranging from 5% to 15%.

Delivery and shipping costs are also a factor, especially if purchased from a distant vendor. These transport fees range from $200 to $1,000, with larger or heavier monuments incurring higher costs due to specialized equipment. Some vendors may include basic shipping in the headstone’s price. Lastly, some cemeteries or local municipalities may require permits for headstone installation, adding between $50 and $300 to the total cost.