Headstones or grave markers are the part of the grave that stays above the ground. This part is typically made of stone and has engravings on it about the person who has passed away. It is also known as a gravestone or a tombstone. These headstones can vary greatly in cost depending on the material used, additional designs, and any engravings made. 

On average, a flat headstone is around $1,000. Other headstones that are more intricate can be $1,000 to $3,000. Furthermore, headstones that are higher quality or engraved can cost as much as $10,000, depending on a couple of factors. However, the average cost of a headstone is typically around $2,000. 

Breaking Down the Cost of a Headstone

A headstone’s cost varies based on a couple of factors. The first thing is the stone that is being used. Next, engravings should be considered. Finally, actually installing and maintaining the headstone factors into the cost.

The Stone

The stone that the grave marker is made of can cause the price to vary. Although it seems that stones can be found anywhere, for a relatively low cost, this is not the case. Stones take thousands of years to fully form, occasionally making them rare and tricky to find. The two main types of stone used for headstones are granite and marble.

Granite is the type of stone that is common when creating a headstone. Granite is nice because it comes in a variety of colors, making it generally customizable. Depending on where the granite is from, the colors will change. This could affect price, as the stone may need to be imported from another part of the world. Granite is also incredibly durable and generally affordable, even if it has to be important. For a granite headstone, the cost would average $450.

The next option for a headstone would be marble. Marble is the more expensive option, although many people prefer marble as it is very polished and clean. However, these headstones do tend to wear down quicker than granite. That means that it is more costly to upkeep these headstones if you want them to look their best. On average, a marble headstone cost anywhere from $1,500 to $1,800.

The Costs of Engraving 

The engravings that go on a headstone or grave marker are the next part to consider when looking at cost. It takes a lot of skill to be able to engrave a headstone beautifully. Depending on what you want on the headstone, the price could vary. 

Due to the intense nature of engraving a headstone, it generally costs about $20 a letter up to the 20 or 30 letter mark. After that, the cost can drop to $10 per character. On average, a headstone with your loved one’s name, birth date, and death date will cost around $500.

Some people choose to get an engraved plaque instead of etching directly on stone. This plaque is made of bronze metal that is placed directly on the headstone. These are durable plaques and last with the stone, in addition to being affordable. A bronze and aluminum plaque ranges from around $100 to $300 on average. An intricate plaque may cost more, whereas a cheaper plaque can cost less.

Installation of Headstones

Actually installing a headstone is part of the burial process that is crucial. Therefore, cemeteries will often offer headstone installation at an extra cost. However, if your cemetery does not provide this, professional monument installation teams can do it as well. Generally, it is advised that you hire a professional instead of doing it yourself.

When a team goes to install the headstone, they will measure the stone precisely in order to make sure it is lined up correctly. They must also measure it so that they can dig a hole for where the headstone will sit. Often, they also add a concrete base, although this is only for larger headstones that need a foundation. 

Headstone installation is generally between $150 to $450 depending on factors including the team, the headstone, and the optional foundation. 

How Maintenance Plays Into the Cost of Headstones

Once the headstone is placed, costs do not end. Even though headphones are sturdy, they do need maintenance such as cleaning and upkeep. Although you can do this yourself, you can hire professionals as well. Hiring a headstone maintenance company costs between $40 to $170 on average for cleaning 

Restoration of Grave Markers

Headstones may need repair or restoration in addition to cleaning. Changing factors, including rain, wind, storms, or natural events, can all damage the stone. Also, the stone will wear down over time, causing necessary repairs or restoration. 

At times, this restoration can mean reinstalling the headstone or the foundation. It also includes fixing up engravings and surfaces so that the stone looks polished and clean.

The cost for this restoration can vary based on what you need to have done to the headstone, in addition to the state that the headstone is in. If it is too damaged, replacements are recommended. On the other hand, if the headstone is generally in good shape but needs some repairs, this is not as costly.

How to Save Money on a Headstone

Although it seems that headstones are very expensive, there are ways to save some money. The first thing to consider is planning ahead. This may get you better deals. Also, going minimal, teaming up, and starting early are all ways to save on the cost of headstones.

Plan Ahead for Your Burial Arrangements

Shopping ahead of time may get you a better deal on your headstone. Picking out a headstone alongside your family members can help get it sorted out ahead of time. Planning the details out in advance also allows you to focus on other aspects later on.

Go Minimal

If it makes you happy, a more minimal headstone can save significant money. You will not have to spend as much on engravings or other aspects, which can quickly become costly. 

Team Up

Another way to help save some money on headstones could be joining with your partner or another family member. A companion headstone may end up being a bit larger but is also more cost-effective.

Start Burial Planning Early with Miami Monument Company

Planning and starting early can help mitigate the costs of getting a headstone. Whether that means getting engravings finished, choosing the type of stone, or getting the grave plot picked out, this could help you begin to pay for things over time, saving money in the long run. Reach out to Miami Monument Company if you have questions about how much headstones cost and the options available for you.