What is the average cost of a headstone?
Headstones vary in price and style. Learn what to expect – and why there's no need to rush your decision.
Choosing a headstone can feel like one of the final pieces of arranging a funeral. It's a way to mark the grave and honour the person who has died. But it can also come with costs you might not have expected.
In this guide, we walk you through the pricing of different types of headstones. We also show how you can manage the costs while still creating something meaningful.
What do headstones usually cost?
According to SunLife's Cost of Dying 2025 Report, the average cost of a memorial – such as a headstone – is £1,038 in the UK. It's the most expensive optional extra cost you'll encounter for a typical funeral.
In 2025, headstone and memorial prices in the UK continue to vary significantly based on factors like material, size, design and complexity.
To give you an idea of what you might pay, here are some typical price ranges:
- Memorial plaques start at around £800
- Cremation headstones and small upright memorials start at around £2,000
- Standard upright headstones cost between £1,000 and £3,000
- Kerbed memorials (full-length grave covers) start at around £4,500
It's also worth checking whether the cemetery you have chosen has any specific rules for memorials. Some only accept certain sizes or styles, which might affect both your chosen design and your budget.
What makes one headstone more expensive than another?
Material is a big factor.
Granite is popular because it lasts well and looks smart. However, it usually costs more than softer stones like sandstone or limestone. Some people prefer marble for its smooth finish, though it can be more prone to weather damage over time.
The size of the stone and how much detail you want to include also affect the cost. A simple plaque inscribed with a name and dates will be cheaper than a tall, carved headstone with a long inscription and custom artwork.
You'll also need to pay for the stone to be installed. This includes fixing it securely to the ground and may also involve cemetery fees or local permits. In many cases, the memorial company can handle this for you. However, it's always a good idea to ask what's included in the quote.
Can I save money on a headstone?
Luckily, there are ways to keep costs lower, especially if you're open to simpler designs. Choosing a smaller stone or using more affordable materials can all help reduce the price. You can also keep inscriptions short to save some money.
It's a good idea to speak to a few local memorial companies before you decide. Prices vary, and some may be able to offer payment plans or lower-cost packages.
If cost is a concern, your funeral director may also be able to recommend a local stonemason who can offer a fair price. And if you're not sure what you want, it's completely fine to start with a chat and ask questions before deciding.
Do I have to choose a headstone straight away?
No. In fact, many people choose to wait.
And there's no real rush to decide. Most cemeteries ask you to wait at least six months after a burial before installing a headstone. This allows the ground to settle.
Waiting can also give you time to think about what you want. Some people start with a temporary marker – like a wooden cross or plaque – and decide on a permanent headstone later.
Taking your time also gives you the chance to save up or look at different options without pressure. A headstone is something that lasts a long time, so it's really not worth rushing.
What can you include on a headstone?
Most headstones include the person's name, date of birth and date of death – but there's room to add more if you want to.
Some families choose a short message, a line of poetry or a verse from a religious text. Others include symbols or images that reflect the person's identity or beliefs.
There are some limits, though. Cemeteries often have rules about wording, especially in shared or council-run spaces. Inscriptions must usually be respectful, and some locations may not allow certain types of decoration, such as photos or personal items fixed to the stone.
It's worth checking with the cemetery or memorial provider about what's allowed before you settle on your wording. Most stonemasons will be happy to help you choose something meaningful that fits within the space – and the guidelines.
There's no pressure to be poetic or perfect. Some of the most moving messages are the simplest. Even a single word – like 'beloved' or 'remembered' – can say a great deal.
Are there any religious or cultural considerations?
Yes. It's worth being aware that some faiths have specific traditions around headstones or don't use them at all.
Islam
Islamic graves often feature simple markers with minimal decoration, adhering to Islamic principles of modesty and humility. These markers typically include inscriptions in Arabic, such as verses from the Quran, and avoid elaborate designs or imagery.
Judaism
In Jewish tradition, it is customary to place the headstone several months after burial during a ceremony known as the 'unveiling'. This ceremony usually occurs within the first year of mourning, often after the 30-day period called shloshim. It includes prayers, the removal of a cloth covering the headstone and the recitation of the Mourner's Kaddish.
Hinduism
In Hindu tradition, cremation is most common – and many families choose to immerse the ashes in bodies of water. This means headstones are usually not required.
What to do if you're not sure
If you're unsure what's expected or what would be most appropriate, you might want to speak with a faith or community leader. There's no harm in asking – and people are usually happy to help you understand what's considered respectful or traditional.
Take your time, and do what feels right
There's no right or wrong way to do things when it comes to headstones. Some people know exactly what they want. Others need time – and that's OK.
If you're feeling unsure, remember that you don't have to make any decisions on your own. A local memorial company can help you explore ideas. If you're using a funeral director, they may also be able to point you in the right direction.
AFD is a team of independent funeral directors based in London. We don't sell headstones, but we can help you understand your options and connect you with local professionals if needed. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need our support.
