I don't know why it would cost more to have headers fitted,the flanges have to be bolted to the heads pipes tack welded up taken off,welded up,colectors fitted welded up and final install to make sure they fit after they are welded up.
You guys on the east coast must have to pay top dollar for all your work.Jim Caughlin has been doing work around here for years.National record holder in his class,doe's alot of Vanderbecks header work,builds alot of superstock and stock class headers.
$800 for the headers does't include specialty collectors that can cost up to $800 per pair by themselves.But for a regular header like a Hooker Super Comp,the headers would be about $800.