Cemetery Plot Guide: Buying a Burial Plot

The planning process of burying a family member or a significant other is not something anyone would really want to think about any sooner than they need to. That said, more and more couples and families are discovering the importance of planning ahead when it comes to purchasing burial plots. As we discuss in our funeral pricing guide, the overall cost of a funeral is on the rise; and the burial plot cost is no exception. 

If you think that a single, companion or family burial plot is something that you are interested in pursuing for yourself or your family members, we have a few tips for how to get ahead of the planning process. 

How to Buy a Cemetery Plot:

The first step when it comes to purchasing a burial plot is to do your research on local cemeteries in your area. Cemetery plots may not always be available at your first choice of cemetery, so it’s a good idea to explore multiple options in your area. The burial plot cost will vary depending on the cemetery, and whether the cemetery is public or private (with private cemetery plots costing more). Cemetery plots can cost anywhere between $525 - $5,000, sometimes much more if you live in a major urban area. If you feel confident that you will be choosing burial for yourself or your immediate family members at the end of life, it’s wise to consider purchasing a burial plot sooner rather than later. The reason why we suggest pre-purchasing is two-fold. For one thing, the price of burial plots will only continue to rise. As cemetery plots increase in value, purchasing one now rather than when you actually intend to use the plot secures the current price point for you. Furthermore, you can always change your mind should you decide to pursue cremation or other forms of burial. If you ultimately decide not to use the burial plot, you have the option to sell the burial plot. 

The second - and perhaps more pressing - major reason that we advise pre-purchasing a burial plot is that cemeteries are running out land. The reality is that many cemeteries are already at capacity, and the available space for burial plots is only going to continue to decrease. 

Companion Plots and Family Plots:

If you wish to purchase a burial plot that’s not just for yourself, you have a couple of options. Companion plots refer to two burial plots that are sold together. There are side-by-side companion plots, as well as double depth plots. Double depth plots are those that are deep enough for the two caskets to be buried one on top of the other. It should be noted that double depth plots are usually a cheaper option than side-by-side companion plots.

Family plots are larger burial sites, meant to provide enough space for multiple members (three or more) of a family to be buried next to one another.  

For more information on the costs of single, companion or family headstones, please check out our guide: How Much Do Headstones Cost?