As family dynamics evolve, Divorce trends can often provide insight into how we live today. 

This article offers an in-depth look at marriage and Divorce Rates for the year 2023, with an analysis of the most common reasons for separations, various trends over the years, and how divorce rates vary by state, country, occupation, income, age, gender, ethnicity, education, and religion. 

We also discuss the complexities of divorce involving children and the importance of fair divorce settlements. 

At Graziano & Flynn, P.C., we believe that knowledge is empowering. As you navigate the complexities of family law, our team stands ready to guide you. Our seasoned attorneys are more than just legal advisors: we are your advocates. 

For client-first legal representation, reach out to us today.

Key Divorce Statistics

The key to understanding why marriages end in divorce lies in the data. Here’s a rundown of the most important statistics in 2023.

Crude Divorce Rate vs. Refined Divorce Rate

There are two ways that divorce statistics are calculated in datasets, the crude divorce rate and refined divorce rate. Crude divorce rates take into consideration the amount of divorced couples in respect of an entire population. This measure can be misleading because it includes the entire population — children, single adults, and married couples — in its calculation.

The refined divorce rate looks only at divorce among couples who were married in a given year or other stretch of time.

The crude divorce rate generally refers to the number of married parents who divorce per 1,000 population in a given year. As we’ve mentioned, 

According to the National Survey of Family Growth, The crude divorce rate in the United States is approximately 2.7 per 1,000 population.

The refined divorce rate, on the other hand, only includes the population at risk of divorce – that is, married individuals. This rate is typically reported as the number of divorces per 1,000 married women. 

According to the National Survey of Family Growth, the refined divorce rate in the United States is approximately 14.9 per 1,000 married women. 

How Many Marriages End In Divorce?

It’s commonly said that half of all first marriages end in divorce.

However, the reality is more complex. The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that the probability of a first marriage ending in divorce within the first 10 years is approximately 33% in 2023.

When Do Couples Divorce?

The timing of divorce can vary widely depending on individual circumstances, but there are some general trends. According to the 2021 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median duration of first marriages that ended in divorce was approximately 7 years. 

The “seven-year itch” is a well-known phrase referring to a perceived decline in happiness in relationships around the seventh year. It’s important to note, however, that this doesn’t mean all or even most marriages end after seven years. It’s merely a median value, and many marriages last much longer or end much sooner.

Additionally, most people tend to get divorced in their late 20s to early 30s.

How Often Do People Remarry After Divorce?

Remarriage after divorce is becoming more common. Approximately 52% of divorced men and 44% of divorced women were likely to marry again within 5 years of their divorce, according to data from the National Survey of Family Growth.

Most Common Reasons For Divorce

While every relationship is unique, studies have identified common themes in the reasons why marriages end. Here’s a look at the most common reasons for divorce in 2023.

Lack of Commitment

According to the National Fatherhood Initiative’s “National Survey of Marital Strengths,” a lack of commitment is the most frequently mentioned reason for divorce. In many cases, one or both partners feel unprepared for the commitment required for a long-term relationship, which ultimately leads to their separation.

Infidelity

According to the AAMFT, about 15% of married women and 25% of married men have had extramarital affairs. 

When emotional infidelity is included, these percentages increase by approximately 20%.

Domestic Abuse

Regrettably, domestic abuse is also a significant factor in divorce cases. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) states that many victims of domestic abuse cite it as a primary reason for seeking a divorce.

Incompatibility

Sometimes, couples grow apart over time. They may find that they want different things from life or have disparate values. This ‘incompatibility’ often leads to divorce. The National Survey of Marital Strengths highlights incompatibility as one of the leading reasons for divorce.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse can strain a marriage, leading to financial problems, emotional distress, and loss of trust. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that substance abuse is a significant contributor to marital dissolution.

Remember, if you’re dealing with any of these issues and considering a divorce, you don’t have to face it alone. Graziano & Flynn, P.C. is here to support you. Our attorneys understand the difficulties you’re going through, and we’re committed to providing the guidance you need.

Divorce Trends Throughout The Years

Divorce trends can vary significantly over time due to changes in societal norms, economic conditions, and legal reforms. One thing we do know is that you are more likely to get divorced each time you get married. The national divorce rate for second marriages is 60% and then climbs to a whopping 73%. Here are some key trends observed in recent years.

Marriages With The Highest Divorce Rate

Statistical analysis by the U.S. Census Bureau suggests that the probability of divorce increases with each successive marriage. First marriages have a lower rate of divorce compared to second marriages, which in turn have a lower rate than third marriages.

Few People Remarry Each Other After Divorce

While it’s not unheard of for divorced couples to remarry each other, this trend is relatively rare. The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that only a small fraction of divorced couples opt to remarry each other.

New Marriages Often Include A Partner Who Is Remarrying

As highlighted earlier, remarriage is becoming increasingly common. According to the Pew Research Center, about 40% of new marriages in 2023 included at least one partner who had previously been married.

Divorcees Are More Likely To Die Earlier

Studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have found that divorce can have significant impacts on health, potentially leading to a higher mortality rate among divorcees compared to their married counterparts.

Living Together Before Marriage Makes Divorce More Likely

Contrary to popular belief, cohabitation before marriage has been linked to higher rates of divorce. The Journal of Marriage and Family reports a correlation between premarital cohabitation and a higher likelihood of divorce.

Having Divorced Friends Makes Your Risk For Divorce Higher

Social networks can influence divorce rates. According to a study published in the journal Social Forces, individuals are more likely to consider divorce if they have friends who have divorced.

Divorce Settlements

Divorce settlements can vary greatly depending on the couple’s financial circumstances, the length of the marriage, and whether children are involved. They often involve division of assets, alimony, and child support agreements. It’s crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side to ensure a fair settlement.

• According to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, about 95% of divorce cases are settled out of court, avoiding a trial.
• When it comes to property division, the marital home is often the most significant asset to divide. About 70% of divorces involve a couple deciding what to do with their house, according to the same survey from the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
• In terms of alimony or spousal support, men are typically more often the payers, and women are more often the recipients. However, the percentage of women paying alimony has been slowly increasing, reflecting changing gender roles and income patterns.
• Child custody is a significant aspect of many divorce settlements. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, about 80% of custodial parents are mothers. However, shared parenting or joint custody arrangements are becoming more common.
• About 50% of parents have an arrangement on paper or an understanding regarding child support payments. In 2021, custodial mothers were more likely to receive full child support payments compared to custodial fathers.

Divorce Rates by State

Divorce rates can vary considerably from state to state due to factors such as socioeconomic conditions, cultural norms, and state laws. 

As of 2021, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Nevada had the highest divorce rate, with around 4.4 divorces per 1,000 population. In contrast, Illinois had one of the lowest divorce rates, with about 1.9 divorces per 1,000 population. Please note, these figures can vary from year to year.

Divorce Rates by Country

When examined globally, the patterns of divorce can be quite diverse. As of 2021, according to the UN Demographic Yearbook, the United States had one of the highest crude divorce rates globally, at around 2.7 divorces per 1,000 population. In contrast, countries like India and Chile had very low divorce rates, often less than 0.5 divorces per 1,000 population.

Divorce Rates by Occupation

Occupational stress can have a significant impact on marital stability. A study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that occupations with the highest divorce rates often include those in transportation, military, and healthcare sectors. Conversely, occupations in education, architecture, and engineering sectors tend to have lower divorce rates.

Divorce Rates by Income

Income levels can also affect the likelihood of divorce. Research published by the American Sociological Review indicates that lower-income couples have a higher rate of divorce compared to their higher-income counterparts, largely due to financial stress and instability.

A 2021 study from the National Survey of Family Growth also supports this finding. It found that couples with lower income are generally more likely to get divorced compared to higher-income divorce. Financial stress is often cited as a common reason for marital discord.

Divorce Rates by Age

Age plays a significant role in divorce rates. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, younger couples tend to have higher divorce rates, with the risk decreasing as couples age. The highest divorce rates are among people aged 25-39. 

Interestingly, though divorce rates overall have been declining, the rate for those aged 50 and over (often referred to as “gray divorce”) has been increasing.

Divorce Rates by Gender

Statistically, women are more likely to file for divorce. A study by the American Sociological Association found that women initiate about 70% of divorces. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t reflect the gender distribution of divorced individuals overall, which is more evenly split.

Divorce Rates by Ethnicity

Ethnicity can play a role in divorce rates due to a variety of socio-economic and cultural factors. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2021, African-Americans have a higher divorce rate compared to other ethnic groups, followed by Whites, Hispanics, and Asians.

Divorce Rates by Education

Education level has a significant impact on divorce rates. The National Survey of Family Growth indicates that individuals with less education are generally more likely to get divorced compared to those with more education. As of 2021, the divorce rate was lowest among individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Divorce Rates by Religion

Religious beliefs and affiliation can also affect divorce rates. Data from the Pew Research Center in 2021 shows that Protestants and those with no religious affiliation have similar divorce rates, while Catholics, Jews, and Muslims have slightly lower divorce rates.

Divorce With Children

The presence of children can influence divorce rates and the decision to divorce. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly half of all divorces in 2021 involved couples with children under the age of 18. However, couples with children are generally less likely to divorce compared to childless couples, possibly due to a desire to maintain stability for the children.

Divorce is a complex process influenced by a multitude of factors. Regardless of your personal circumstances, the dedicated team at Graziano & Flynn, P.C. is here to support you. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of divorce. If you’re in need of legal advice or representation, reach out to us today.

Contact the Experienced Divorce Lawyers at Graziano & Flynn Today

Navigating the complex world of divorce requires guidance and support. At Graziano & Flynn, P.C., we are committed to putting our clients first. We use our extensive experience to provide the best legal representation, ensuring that your interests are protected during this difficult time.

Whether you’re dealing with child custody issues, navigating divorce settlements, or seeking advice on the divorce process, our team of seasoned attorneys is here to help. We understand that every situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to your individual needs.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

Contact us today and let us help you navigate your divorce with confidence and peace of mind.