In 2021, the average cost of a memorial such as a headstone was £1,024 (SunLife). This made it the most expensive of all the optional extras for a funeral. It cost more than twice as much as catering and nearly 5 times as much as funeral flowers.
That said, there are several types of headstones available and some cost more than others. As a rule of thumb, flat or slanted headstones are the cheapest, starting at around £400. The most popular design – the upright headstone – usually costs between £800 and £1200. Kerbed headstone prices can be £2000 or more. This is because these designs tend to be larger and more intricate.
There are ways to save money when choosing a headstone. You could choose a smaller memorial, opt for a less expensive material or have fewer words inscribed on the stone. You could also choose a simpler finish.
And remember: you don’t have to buy a headstone straight away. In most cases, you’ll need to wait at least 6 months after the burial before a headstone can be put up. Some people install an inexpensive wooden marker or plaque instead, then replace it with a headstone when they can afford it or have decided what they’d like.