Thinking about the future — especially when it comes to our mortality — is never a pleasant thought. However, it is a necessary one.
Understanding the range of costs associated with a burial plot is the first step to making arrangements that suit your unique needs. We’ve summarized everything you need to know about burial plot cost factors and plot types down below.
What is A Burial Plot?
A burial plot is a space in a cemetery designated for the burial of one’s remains. The term can define a range of burial spaces, including those found in a cemetery, a crypt, a mausoleum, or a vault.
Average Cost of a Burial Plot
The average cost of a burial plot ranges between $500 to $10,000+ depending on several factors, which we discuss in detail down below. We do want to note that the cost listed above only covers the cost of the space where the casket or container will be buried, and does not include related expenses to any containers, urns, or caskets.
Some cemeteries might also include additional services in the initial plot cost, or they may offer services for an additional interment fee. Your funeral director will be able to help you navigate the costs and arrangements as they relate to your specific needs and plans.
What Affects The Cost of Burial Plots?
Several factors influence burial plot costs. Understanding the different factors enables you to get the best price possible for your plot arrangements.
We’ve summarized what you need to know about each factor below.
1. Location
Where you choose to lay someone to rest plays a major role in the price of your plot. For example: Urban cemeteries may be pricier than their rural counterparts. This makes sense because, just like in real estate, the availability and desirability of a location can affect its total cost.
2. Type of Cemetery
Choosing between public and private cemeteries can also play a role in the average cost of a burial plot. Public cemeteries, generally managed by city or county governments, usually offer more affordable plots due to municipality subsidies.
Many sources find that a single burial plot costs between $3,500 to $10,000+ in private cemeteries, as opposed to $750 to $5,000+ in public cemeteries.
In contrast, private cemeteries operate independently, which can either grant them a greater degree of pricing flexibility or lead to higher costs.
If possible, it’s best to call several local public and private cemeteries before finalizing your plans, ensuring that you have a full understanding of the average local plot costs and policies offered by the cemetery.
3. Plot Types
The cost of a burial plot can also be influenced by the type of plot that it’s categorized as. There are three primary types of plots to consider as you search: A single plot, a double plot, and a family plot.
- Single plots: These types of plots typically contain the remains of a single person in a casket or an urn. They are often the most common type of plot sought in a cemetery.
- Double plots: A double plot is ideal for a married couple or for those in a lifelong partnership, enabling them to be interred together. Many find this to be an endearing final farewell, as it’s done with the sentiment that the couple wanted to be together forever — even in the afterlife.
- Family plots: A family plot is not a singular plot. Rather, it’s a group of spaces in a plot of land used to bury multiple members of a family. It may be marked by a large family headstone or by a series of singular entries and can be arranged in any formation that your funeral home allows.
- Cremation plots: Cremation plots are designed specifically for the interment of cremated remains. Unlike traditional burial plots, they accommodate urns or other containers holding ashes, often in smaller, designated areas within a cemetery.Some cemeteries provide special features for cremation plots, such as columbariums, structures with niches to hold urns, or garden areas with dedicated spaces for cremation.
4. Features and Amenities
Many cemeteries offer a series of features across their property, such as gardens, waterfall areas, and meditation zones. These amenities provide loved ones with areas of respite during visits, and contribute positively to the overall experience that the cemetery offers the community during some of their toughest moments.
As such, if a burial plot is close to these amenities, it may be listed at a higher cost — just as a larger, pre-furnished home would sell for more on the market.
Average Cost of Burial Plots by Type
Single, double, and family plots are sold at a range of prices. We’ve provided the averages for each type below.
1. Single Burial Plots
A single plot typically starts at $1,000+ for burial at a public cemetery.
2. Double (or “Companion”) Plots
As these are large enough for two burials, double plots can be more expensive than single plots. They are often sold for about $3,000+ or more.
3. Family Plots
Family plots are larger and can be more expensive as a result. The average family plot typically starts at $20,000+.
4. Cremation Plots
Some cemeteries offer special sections for cremation burial, which typically involves burying cremated remains in urns. These plots are usually smaller (and therefore can be more affordable) — often selling for as low as $350+ per plot.
Additional Costs Related to Burial Plots
There are many service-related costs that are cemetary-specific that one should consider before purchasing a burial plot. Some of the most common possible costs include:
- Grave opening and grave closing services
- Headstones or grave markers
- Headstone installation services
- Burial permits
- Graveside maintenance
- Flowers or accouterments
FAQs
Understanding The Cost of Burial Plots
Knowing the factors at play behind burial plot costs empowers you to make pre-arrangements that align well with your needs.
At Schoppenhorst, Underwood & Brooks Funeral Home, we recognize the importance of pre-arrangements that are accessible and tailored to your preferences. It’s our privilege to advise you and support you as you arrange end-of-life services.
Connect with us today to learn more about burial plot costs and purchase steps in the state of Kentucky.
