what's the typical cost of replacing the head gasket?

Unfortunately there really are no "typical costs" for a head gasket replacement on your Subaru.The variables once the heads are removed are many. Depending on what you find it could lead to a complete valve job. Once it is apart timimg belt/ water pump replacement is often a needed option. We have had the job run from around $2500 all the way to $4500.Find someone who you trust, communicate often and be prepared to spend more than you hoped for.

check rockauto.com great parts and prices and ships to your address. i order parts when ever my car has a problem. my 95 saturn SL1 is pretty much completely rebuilt by now. only orignal parts left are the doors , frame, and alt. but i found a top end gasket kit that practically gives you everything you need. to rebuild. or fix the problem. and runs about 89-200 dollars . so parts a damn good and fairly priced. hope this helps

Agree totally with answer # 2!!

Use the estimator and add $500 for machine work to test the heads. If they need to be replaced then the job will cost even more. GL