How to Choose a Cemetery: Types, Costs, and What to Consider
A comprehensive guide to choosing a cemetery, including public vs. private, costs of plots, and what questions to ask before purchasing.
Planning in the United States2 min read
How to Choose a Cemetery: Types, Costs, and What to Consider
Choosing a cemetery is one of the most permanent decisions in funeral planning. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Types of Cemeteries
Public (Municipal) Cemeteries
Operated by local government
Generally least expensive option
Open to all residents
Basic amenities and maintenance
Private Cemeteries
Operated by businesses, families, or organizations
Often have more amenities (gardens, mausoleums, chapel)
May have higher prices
Some are exclusive to members or denominations
Religious Cemeteries
Affiliated with a specific faith
May require membership or adherence to faith traditions
Often beautifully maintained historic grounds
Special sections for different denominations
National Cemeteries
For eligible veterans and their families
No cost for plot, opening/closing, or marker
155 national cemeteries across the US
Managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs
Green/Natural Cemeteries
Environmentally focused
No embalming, vaults, or non-biodegradable materials
Natural landscaping instead of manicured lawns
Growing in availability nationwide
Cemetery Costs
Item
Cost Range
Cemetery plot (single)
$1,000 – $4,000
Opening/closing of grave
$500 – $1,500
Burial vault or liner
$1,000 – $3,000
Headstone/marker
$1,000 – $3,000
Endowment care fee
$200 – $1,000
Columbarium niche (cremation)
$750 – $5,000
Mausoleum crypt
$3,000 – $30,000
Total (ground burial)
$3,700 – $12,500
Key Questions to Ask
Before purchasing a cemetery plot, ask:
What's included in the price? (perpetual care, opening/closing, etc.)
Are there deed transfer restrictions? Can you sell or transfer the plot later?
What are the monument/headstone rules? Size, material, and design restrictions
Is a burial vault required? This adds $1,000–$3,000
What are decoration policies? Rules about flowers, flags, and personal items
What are visiting hours? Some cemeteries close at dusk
Is the cemetery financially stable? Check the endowment fund status
Cremation Memorialization Options
Cemeteries offer several options for cremated remains:
Columbarium niche — A wall-mounted compartment for the urn
In-ground burial — A smaller plot for an urn
Scattering garden — A designated area for dispersing ashes
Bench or memorial marker — With a compartment for ashes
Planning Ahead
Purchasing a cemetery plot in advance can:
Lock in today's prices (cemetery costs rise 3–5% annually)
Ensure availability in your preferred location
Remove the burden of this decision from your family
Search our directory for funeral homes and cemetery services near you.
After the Burial
After the burial and funeral, families face the practical work of settling the estate. EverSettled provides guided support for probate, account closures, and insurance claims.