By Capital Grave Markers · Published · Last updated · 6 min read
A grave marker is a flat or low-profile memorial that lies flush with, or slightly above, the ground. A headstone is an upright stone that stands at the head of the grave. Both identify who is buried there; they differ in height, weight, price and which cemetery sections accept them. If the cemetery section is a lawn or memorial-park section, a flat marker is often the only option, so confirm the rules before choosing.
Key Takeaways
- A grave marker is flat or low-profile; a headstone is an upright stone.
- The VA flat granite marker is 24 × 12 × 4 in (about 130 lb); the VA upright headstone is 42 × 13 × 4 in (about 230 lb).
- In our catalog, flat granite markers start at $213; upright headstones start at $1,048.
- The cemetery’s written rules decide which type is allowed in a given section.
What is a grave marker?
A grave marker is a memorial stone designed to sit at or near ground level. Flat (flush) markers are set level with the turf so mowers can pass over them; bevel markers are raised a few inches with a slightly angled face that is easier to read.
For scale, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs lists its flat granite and flat marble grave markers at 24 inches long, 12 inches wide and 4 inches thick, weighing approximately 130 pounds. Private flat markers come in many sizes; our flat granite headstones range from 16 × 8 in to 28 × 16 in, and our bevel markers from 20 × 10 × 4 in to 42 × 16 × 4 in.
What is a headstone?
A headstone is an upright memorial, usually a granite tablet set on a base, that stands above the ground at the head of the grave. Because it is taller, it has more room for names, dates, epitaphs, symbols and portraits.
The VA’s upright granite and marble headstones measure 42 inches long, 13 inches wide and 4 inches thick and weigh approximately 230 pounds — nearly twice the weight of its flat marker. Private upright headstones vary widely in shape: serpentine tops, hearts, crosses and sculpted forms. See our upright headstones.
How do grave markers and headstones compare side by side?
The main differences are profile, size, installation and cost. Listed prices below are from capitalgravemarkers.com as of September 27, 2026.
| Feature | Flat marker | Bevel marker | Upright headstone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profile | Flush with the ground | Raised a few inches, angled face | Stands upright on a base |
| Sizes in our catalog | 16 × 8 in to 28 × 16 in | 20 × 10 × 4 in to 42 × 16 × 4 in | Many shapes and sizes |
| Listed price range | $213 – $1,555 | $500 – $2,331 | From $1,048 |
| Space for inscription | Name, dates, short epitaph | Name, dates, epitaph, symbol | Most space, including portraits |
| Cemetery acceptance | Accepted in most sections | Section rules vary | Only where upright monuments are allowed |
Which one costs less?
A flat grave marker usually costs less because it uses less granite and ships lighter. In our catalog the least expensive flat headstone is the Elegant Flat Headstone with Cross Symbol at $213, while upright headstones begin with the Classic Serpentine Top Granite Headstone at $1,048.
Remember that the stone is only part of the total. Cemeteries can charge setting or permit fees, and installation is priced separately. For a full breakdown, read How Much Does a Grave Marker Cost in 2026?.
Does the cemetery decide which type I can use?
Yes. Each cemetery sets its own rules, and many lawn or memorial-park sections accept flat markers only. The Federal Trade Commission advises families to check “the type of monuments or memorials it allows” before buying a cemetery site.
The FTC also notes that its Funeral Rule does not apply to third-party monument dealers or to cemeteries without an on-site funeral home, so the cemetery’s written regulations are the document that controls. Our checklist in Cemetery Headstone Rules covers what to ask.
How do I choose between a marker and a headstone?
Start with the cemetery rules, then weigh space for the inscription and the total cost.
- Ask the cemetery which memorial types and maximum sizes are allowed in your section.
- Decide how much text, symbolism or photography you want on the stone.
- Choose single or companion — see our companion headstone guide.
- Compare listed prices, then add cemetery fees and any installation you need.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Headstones and Markers: Types
- Federal Trade Commission — Buying a Cemetery Site
- Federal Trade Commission — The FTC Funeral Rule
Prices quoted are listed prices on capitalgravemarkers.com as of September 27, 2026 and may change. The product page, written quote and signed agreement control your order.
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