There is no official national price for a headstone. The cost depends on the material, the size, the amount of engraving and the cemetery's installation charges. Eligible veterans can get a headstone or marker from the VA (National Cemetery Administration). Check the cemetery's rules before you buy anything (Federal Trade Commission).
What sets the price
| Factor | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Type | Flat grave marker, bevel marker, upright headstone or bronze plaque. Which ones does the cemetery allow? |
| Material | Granite, marble or bronze? What finish? |
| Size | Does the cemetery set a maximum size? |
| Engraving | Is lettering included? How many letters? Is there a charge for artwork or a portrait? |
| Foundation | Does the headstone need a concrete base? Who pours it, and who pays? |
| Installation | Does the cemetery charge a setting or inspection fee? |
| Delivery and time | Is delivery included? How many weeks will it take? |
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Check the cemetery first
The FTC advises checking what type of monuments or memorials a cemetery allows, and whether perpetual care is included in the price of the plot (Federal Trade Commission). Do this before you order. A stone that breaks the cemetery's rules may not be installed.
The FTC Funeral Rule, which gives you the right to itemized prices at funeral homes, does not apply to monument dealers or to cemeteries without an on-site funeral home (Federal Trade Commission). Get a written quote and a written delivery date anyway.
Veterans
All veterans are entitled to a free burial in a national cemetery and a grave marker. There are no charges for opening or closing the grave, for a vault or liner, or for setting the marker there (Federal Trade Commission). Spouses and dependent children also are entitled to a lot and marker when buried in a national cemetery. For burial in a private cemetery, see the VA's page on headstones, markers and medallions (National Cemetery Administration), and read our guide to VA burial benefits.
Be careful with "veterans' specials" at commercial cemeteries. The FTC warns that a free plot for the veteran can come with very high prices for the spouse's plot and for opening and closing each grave (Federal Trade Commission).
Common questions
Are veterans entitled to a free headstone?
The VA furnishes headstones, markers and medallions for eligible veterans. In a national cemetery there is no charge for the marker or for setting it. Check eligibility with the VA.
Does the FTC Funeral Rule cover headstone sellers?
No. The Rule does not apply to third-party sellers such as monument dealers, or to cemeteries without an on-site funeral home. Ask for prices in writing.
Can I buy a headstone from someone other than the cemetery?
Often, but check the cemetery's rules first. Cemeteries can limit the type of monuments or memorials they allow, and may charge for installation.
Related guides
How much does a funeral cost?
National median funeral costs, what a funeral home must show you under the FTC Funeral Rule, and a worksheet to total the price list you were given.
VA burial benefits
The VA burial allowance amounts for deaths on or after October 1, 2026, who can claim, the 2-year time limit and the free burial and headstone benefits.
What to do when someone dies
A step-by-step checklist for the first hours, the first week and the first months after a death, with the official agencies to notify.
Sources
- Buying a Cemetery Site, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 8, 2026.
- The FTC Funeral Rule, Federal Trade Commission. Checked November 7, 2026.
- Headstones, markers and medallions, National Cemetery Administration (VA). Checked November 7, 2026.
This guide explains general rules. It is not medical, legal or financial advice for your situation. Program rules and amounts change, usually each January (Medicare and Medicaid) and each October (VA). Confirm details with the agency or a qualified professional before you decide. See our editorial policy.