How Much Does a Headstone or Gravestone Cost?
The short answer: A basic granite headstone costs $1,000–$3,000 installed. Bronze markers run $1,500–$4,000. Elaborate upright monuments can reach $5,000–$15,000+. The final price depends on material, size, engraving complexity, and your cemetery's specific requirements.
Most families spend around $2,000–$2,500 for a standard granite headstone with basic engraving. But costs vary dramatically based on your choices, and many people don't realize how much cemetery rules affect pricing.
This guide breaks down every factor so you can budget accurately and avoid surprise costs.
Headstone Cost by Material
The material you choose is the biggest factor in your headstone's cost:
| Material | Price Range | Durability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | $800–$4,000 | 100+ years | Most popular choice, weather-resistant |
| Bronze | $1,500–$4,500 | 100+ years | Mounted on granite base, upscale appearance |
| Marble | $1,200–$4,000 | 50–100 years | Beautiful but softer, can weather over time |
| Sandstone | $1,000–$3,000 | 75–150 years | Natural look, regional availability varies |
| Slate | $1,200–$3,500 | 200+ years | Extremely durable, limited color options |
Granite dominates the market — about 80% of new headstones — because it's affordable, durable, and available in many colors. Gray, black, and red are most common and cost-effective.
Why Granite is So Popular
- Weather-resistant: Won't crack, fade, or erode like marble
- Color variety: Available in gray, black, red, pink, blue, green
- Cost-effective: Good balance of price and longevity
- Easy to engrave: Clean, sharp text and images
Headstone Size and Style Pricing
Size dramatically affects cost. Here's the breakdown:
Flat/Flush Markers (Most Affordable)
| Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 12" x 24" (single) | $500–$1,200 |
| 16" x 28" (single) | $700–$1,400 |
| 24" x 36" (companion/double) | $1,200–$2,500 |
Bevel Markers (Slightly Raised)
| Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 12" x 24" x 4" | $800–$1,600 |
| 16" x 28" x 4" | $1,000–$1,800 |
| 24" x 36" x 6" | $1,500–$3,000 |
Slant Markers (Angled Face)
| Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 16" x 10" x 12" | $1,200–$2,200 |
| 20" x 12" x 14" | $1,500–$2,800 |
| 24" x 14" x 16" | $2,000–$3,500 |
Upright Monuments (Most Expensive)
| Height | Width | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 24" | 36" | $2,500–$5,000 |
| 30" | 42" | $3,500–$7,000 |
| 36" | 48" | $5,000–$10,000+ |
Custom shapes and elaborate designs add $1,000–$5,000+ to any style.
Cemetery Requirements Matter More Than You Think
Here's what many families don't realize: Your cemetery has rules that directly affect your headstone options and costs.
Common Cemetery Restrictions
- Size limits: Maximum dimensions for each section
- Material requirements: Some cemeteries only allow granite
- Installation rules: Who can install, when, approval processes
- Design restrictions: Religious symbols, images, text guidelines
- Foundation requirements: Specific base sizes and materials
Types of Cemeteries and Their Rules
Traditional/Religious Cemeteries:
- Usually allow upright monuments
- May restrict images or text to religious themes
- Often have approved monument dealer lists
Memorial Parks:
- Typically require flush/flat markers only
- Strict size uniformity for aesthetic reasons
- Limited personalization options
Green/Natural Burial Grounds:
- May only allow local stone materials
- Restrictions on polished surfaces
- Emphasis on natural, simple designs
Veterans Cemeteries:
- Government-provided headstones at no cost to qualifying families
- Strict regulations on size, material, and inscription
- Private headstones usually not allowed
Always check your cemetery's rules before ordering. Some cemeteries charge $200–$500 in fees if your headstone doesn't meet their specifications and needs to be redone.
Engraving and Personalization Costs
Basic engraving (name, dates, simple inscription) is usually included in the base price. But personalization adds up:
| Engraving Type | Additional Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic text (name, dates, simple saying) | Usually included |
| Additional text lines | $50–$150 per line |
| Religious symbols | $100–$300 |
| Custom artwork/portraits | $300–$1,500+ |
| Photo ceramic inserts | $200–$600 |
| Military emblems | $150–$400 |
| Raised/carved letters (vs. sandblasted) | $200–$800 |
| Gold or color fill | $300–$800 |
What Affects Engraving Costs
- Complexity: Simple text vs. detailed artwork
- Method: Sandblasted (standard) vs. hand-carved (premium)
- Size: Larger text and images cost more
- Color: Black standard; gold, silver, and colors cost extra
Installation and Additional Fees
The headstone price often doesn't include everything you need:
| Service/Fee | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Installation/setting | $300–$800 |
| Foundation/base | $200–$600 |
| Cemetery permit fees | $50–$300 |
| Delivery | $100–$300 |
| Rush orders | 20–50% surcharge |
Installation Timeline
- Standard orders: 6–12 weeks from order to installation
- Rush orders: 2–4 weeks (with surcharge)
- Seasonal delays: Many cemeteries don't allow winter installation in northern climates
Important: Some cemeteries require you to use their preferred monument dealers. This can add 20–40% to your cost but may be unavoidable.
How to Save Money on Headstones
1. Shop Around
Monument dealers have significant markup flexibility. Get quotes from at least 3 sources:
- Cemetery's preferred dealers
- Independent monument companies
- Online retailers (if cemetery allows)
2. Consider Timing
- Off-season orders: Some dealers offer discounts during slower months
- Group orders: If multiple family members need headstones, bundling can reduce per-unit costs
- Advance planning: Rush fees can add 20–50% to your cost
3. Simplify the Design
- Standard sizes: Custom dimensions cost significantly more
- Common materials: Exotic granite colors cost 2–3x standard colors
- Simple engraving: Hand-carved and artistic details add hundreds to thousands
4. Buy Direct
Some families save 20–40% by:
- Purchasing from wholesalers (if cemetery allows)
- Using online retailers
- Buying the stone and arranging installation separately
But be careful: Make sure any non-cemetery vendor understands your cemetery's specific requirements.
When to Order Your Headstone
Timing Options
Immediately after burial: Some families want the headstone in place quickly for closure and visiting.
Several months later: Many families wait 6–12 months, allowing time to:
- Make thoughtful design choices without grief pressure
- Plan financially for the expense
- Ensure the grave has settled properly
Pre-planning: Ordering your own headstone in advance lets you:
- Choose exactly what you want
- Lock in current prices
- Reduce burden on family members
There's no "right" timing — choose what feels appropriate for your family's situation and budget.
Veterans Headstone Benefits
If the deceased was a military veteran, you have valuable options:
Government-Provided Headstones
- Cost: Free to qualifying veterans
- Materials: Granite, marble, or bronze
- Styles: Flat markers or upright monuments
- Included: Basic engraving with name, dates, military branch
What's Covered
- The headstone itself
- Standard inscription
- Delivery to cemetery
What's Not Covered
- Installation (usually $200–$400)
- Custom engraving beyond standard format
- Rush delivery
To apply: Complete VA Form 40-1330. The process takes 6–8 weeks. You can still purchase a private headstone if you prefer more customization options.
How to Pay for a Headstone
Headstones are often purchased months after a funeral, giving families more time to plan financially:
Payment Options
Payment plans: Most monument dealers offer 6–12 month payment plans with little or no interest.
Final expense insurance: If the family has burial insurance, headstone costs are typically covered.
Memorial funds: Some families set up memorial funds where friends and family can contribute toward the headstone cost.
Pre-planning: Purchasing your headstone in advance spreads the cost over time and locks in current prices.
Budgeting Tips
- Get written quotes: Prices can vary dramatically between dealers
- Factor in all costs: Don't forget installation, permits, and cemetery fees
- Plan for personalization: Basic headstones are the starting point; meaningful touches cost extra
Red Flags: What to Avoid
High-Pressure Sales
Legitimate monument dealers don't pressure you to "decide today" or use scare tactics about "limited availability." Take time to compare options.
Unusually Low Prices
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Very low prices often mean:
- Hidden fees that appear later
- Poor-quality materials that won't last
- Installation problems
Poor Communication
Professional dealers should:
- Provide detailed written estimates
- Explain your cemetery's specific requirements
- Show you material samples and design proofs
- Give you realistic timelines
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do headstones last?
Quality granite headstones can last centuries with minimal maintenance. Bronze markers last 100+ years. Marble is beautiful but may show weathering after 50–100 years in harsh climates.
Can I install a headstone myself?
Most cemeteries require professional installation to ensure proper placement and foundation work. DIY installation usually voids any warranties and may violate cemetery rules.
What happens if the headstone is damaged?
Quality monuments come with warranties against defects. Weather damage, vandalism, or accidental damage typically aren't covered. Some homeowners insurance policies cover cemetery monuments.
Can I add to a headstone later?
Yes, additional engraving can usually be added. However, matching the original work exactly can be difficult, and the cost is often higher than including everything initially.
Do I need to maintain a headstone?
Granite requires minimal maintenance — occasional cleaning with water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals. Bronze markers may need periodic polishing to maintain their appearance.
Can I design my own headstone?
Most monument dealers can work from your design, but they'll ensure it meets cemetery requirements and production limitations. Custom designs typically add 20–50% to the cost.
Last updated: February 2026. Pricing data based on industry surveys and quotes from monument dealers nationwide. Actual costs in your area may vary significantly based on local market conditions and cemetery requirements.