When we hear the word “divorce,” it can trigger a range of emotions, from a sense of freedom to deep sorrow over the end of a once-happy marriage. While the outdated belief that “50% of marriages end in divorce” no longer holds true, the United States continues to have a high rate of marital separations, driven by unexpected factors.
Let’s take a closer look at the current divorce landscape in the United States in 2024, examining recent trends, potential causes, and the future direction of divorce rates.
Quick Facts About Divorce in the U.S. Today
According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), the current divorce rate across the country hovers around 42%. Some key facts about divorces in the U.S. include:
- 86 divorces occur every hour, while there are 230 marriages
- Marriage and divorce rates in the U.S. are declining due to various factors
- An estimated 41% of first marriages will end in divorce
- Up to 60% of second marriages may not last
- 73% of third marriages end in divorce
- The average length of a first marriage before divorce is eight years
- Millennials are delaying marriage and staying married longer, reducing the divorce rate
- About 64% of men and 52% of women remarry after divorce
- Couples aged 18-24 are more likely to separate
An emerging trend is the increase in “gray divorce,” where couples over the age of 50 are choosing to end their marriages. Since 1990, the rate of gray divorce has tripled, posing challenges in asset division during high-net-worth divorces and ensuring financial security in later years.
It’s important to note that divorce not only affects the couple but also has an impact on children. Research shows that children of divorced parents are more likely to face emotional and behavioral challenges. It’s essential for parents going through a divorce to prioritize the well-being of their children and seek support when needed.
Recent studies have also shown that the average age at which people are getting divorced is increasing. In the past, it was more common for younger couples to divorce, but now, individuals in their 40s and 50s are more likely to end their marriages. This can be attributed to various factors such as changing societal norms, increased financial independence, and longer life expectancies.
Additionally, the concept of divorce stigma is gradually diminishing in society. Divorce is no longer seen as a taboo or a failure, but rather as a decision made for the well-being and happiness of individuals involved. This shift in perception has led to more open discussions about relationships, mental health, and personal fulfillment.
Did COVID-19 Affect the Divorce Rate?
During periods of lockdown, couples spent more time together, potentially uncovering underlying issues in their relationships. Some reported an increase in divorces post-lockdowns, although the overall divorce rate remained steady at 42%. Lack of compatibility and intimacy were cited as the top reasons for filing for divorce.
Interestingly, there was a rise in virtual divorces during the pandemic, where couples used online platforms to complete the divorce process. This shift to virtual divorces highlighted the adaptability of couples during challenging times.
Additionally, financial stress caused by the pandemic was also a contributing factor to divorces, as job losses and economic uncertainty put a strain on many relationships. Seeking therapy and counseling became more common during this time as couples navigated the challenges brought on by the pandemic.
Current Trends Affecting the Divorce Rate
Factors influencing the U.S. divorce rate extend beyond just the dissolution of marriages. The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 report revealed that a significant number of young adults are choosing to live with their parents rather than get married. Additionally, the number of unmarried adults has risen post-2021, impacting living arrangements and financial priorities.
More Adults Are Choosing to Stay Single or Live Alone
An interesting trend is the increasing number of working-age adults opting for singlehood over marriage or cohabitation. Despite facing financial challenges, this choice is noteworthy as better financial stability typically leads to longer-lasting relationships.
Another contributing factor to the rise in unmarried adults is the changing societal norms and attitudes towards marriage. Some individuals are prioritizing their careers, personal growth, and independence over settling down in a traditional marriage. This shift in mindset reflects a broader trend towards valuing individual happiness and fulfillment over societal expectations.
Prenuptial Agreements Can Ease Divorce Concerns
To mitigate factors that can lead to divorce, couples can create personalized prenuptial agreements with the guidance of a family law attorney. These agreements address concerns regarding finances, children, living arrangements, and more, providing a framework for managing assets and child custody in case of a divorce.
Reports indicate that up to 50% of soon-to-be-married couples either support or use prenuptial agreements to strengthen their relationships before getting married.
Brazoria County Family Law Attorneys
Seeking advice from a reputable family law firm in Texas regarding prenuptial agreements, divorce, child custody, and other related legal matters is crucial for effectively managing domestic relationships. Connect with the experienced divorce attorneys at Terry & Roberts for insights on navigating these legal complexities.
How is the institution of marriage evolving? What do divorce rates look like? Explore global data on marriage and divorce trends.
This content was originally published in July 2020 and last updated in February 2025.
In many countries, marriage rates are declining
Marriage rates are on a downward trend in numerous countries worldwide. Historical data on marriage rates in the U.S. show fluctuations influenced by social and economic factors.
- In 1920, after World War I, there were 12 marriages annually per 1,000 people in the U.S.
- In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, marriage rates saw a steep decline.
- 1946 marked a peak of 16.4 marriages per 1,000 people after World War II.
- Marriage rates dropped in the 1950s, spiked in the 1960s, and started a long-term decline in the 1970s.
The U.S. historically had high marriage rates compared to other affluent nations, but in recent decades, there has been a global decrease in marriage rates.
Marriages across cohorts have declined
An analysis of marriages across different generations reveals changes in the likelihood of marriage by age group. Data from previous generations in England and Wales highlight shifts in marriage rates over time.
Global marriage rates have declined over time, while cohabitation rates have increased. This shift has led more people to choose to live together without formal marriage. Additionally, the age at which people marry for the first time has also risen.
People are marrying later
In many countries, marriage rates have reduced alongside an increase in the average age of women at first marriage.
The share of women who are married or in a union has decreased only slightly worldwide
Recent decades have seen a global decline in marriage rates, with more individuals opting for partnerships outside of marriage. This trend varies across regions and age groups.
Higher shares of children are born outside of marriage in most rich countries
Cohabitation, where unmarried couples live together, has become a prevalent practice worldwide. This shift is influenced by both declining marriage rates and the decision to marry at a later stage in life.
Single parenting is common and has increased in many countries
The prevalence of single-parent households is rising in many countries, with various factors contributing to the increase in single parenting. Financial vulnerability is a common concern for single-parent families.
Challenges Faced by Single Parents
In addition to financial concerns, single parents often face challenges in balancing work and family responsibilities. Access to affordable childcare and support systems can greatly impact the well-being of single-parent families.
Across the globe, there is a growing acceptance of marriage equality, with more nations legalizing same-sex marriage. Attitudes towards homosexuality play a significant role in advancing legislation for marriage equality.
Benefits of Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
Legalizing same-sex marriage not only grants equal rights to all individuals but also promotes inclusivity and diversity within society. Research has shown that children raised in same-sex households fare just as well as those raised in traditional heterosexual families.
Where are same-sex marriages legal?
Several countries worldwide have legalized same-sex marriage, indicating a positive shift towards marriage equality.
Most progress in same-sex marriage equality has happened in the last two decades
The adoption of laws promoting marriage equality has seen an uptick over the years, reflecting changing attitudes towards same-sex marriages.
The decrease in marriage rates and the rise in cohabitation and single-parent households are reshaping family structures globally. Evolving societal norms and changing perceptions have led to a broader acceptance of diverse family models.
Divorce rates
Divorce rates have fluctuated over time, underscoring the importance of analyzing global trends in divorce rates to understand whether there is a surge in divorces.
Since the 1970s, divorce rates have been on the rise globally. The UN reports that the percentage of adults aged 35-39 who are divorced or separated has doubled from 2% in the 1970s to 4% in the 2000s.
However, there are notable variations in divorce rates between countries, with trends differing from the 1990s to the present.
During the period between the 1970s and 1990s, many countries saw an increase in divorce rates, with the UK, Norway, and South Korea experiencing a more than threefold rise.
Subsequently, trends have varied, with countries like the U.S., South Korea, Norway, and Turkey exhibiting distinct patterns in divorce rates.
The rise in divorce rates followed by stabilization or decline, especially in wealthier nations, may be linked to changes in marriage dynamics across different generations.
Economists Stevenson and Wolfers suggest that the increasing divorce rates could reflect evolving expectations within marriages as more women enter the workforce.
The share of marriages ending in divorce by year of marriage
Crude divorce rates should be interpreted with caution as they combine different age groups and do not account for changes in the number of marriages.
An examination of the proportion of marriages that result in divorce, analyzed by cohort, provides a more accurate insight into evolving divorce patterns.
Two regions that have seen a decline in divorce rates in recent years are explored.
The percentage of marriages ending in divorce in England and Wales has diminished since the 1960s, particularly within the first five and ten years of marriage.
The share of marriages ending in divorce by anniversary year
The recent decrease in divorce rates in some countries can be attributed to newer cohorts showing a decreased likelihood of divorce and a longer duration of marriage before separation.
Data from England and Wales indicate that couples married in the 1980s and 1990s had higher divorce rates compared to those married in the 1960s and 1970s.
However, the likelihood of divorce has decreased since then, and marriages have lasted longer, especially for couples wedded in the 2000s and 2010s.
Understanding the outcomes of marriages in recent decades will require time and further analysis.