Puja Sachdev | April 9, 2025 | Divorce
Divorce is a common life event, but how many couples actually separate and why? Divorce statistics in the United States have fluctuated over the years because of a number of factors, including cultural views, the economy, and evolving family dynamics.
In the United States, the overall divorce rate has been decreasing. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the divorce rate was 4.0 per 1,000 people in 2000 but declined to 2.4 per 1,000 in 2022. This decrease is due to fewer people getting married.
What Percentage of Marriages End in Divorce?
The question of “What percentage of marriages end in divorce?” is often controversial. Many people assume it’s 50%, but research has shown that number is outdated. Recent U.S. Census studies show the divorce rate in America for 2021 was 6.9 per every 1,000, versus 9.7 in 2009. The likelihood increases for second and third marriages.
Marriage success rates are often influenced by factors such as:
- Age at the time of marriage
- Education levels of the couple
- Financial stability
- Shared values and goals in life
Couples who marry later in life or have higher levels of education have been shown to experience longer-lasting relationships.
Common Reasons Couples Get Divorced
Many factors contribute to the breakdown of a marriage. In California, which is a no-fault divorce state, couples do not need to prove wrongdoing in order to end a marriage legally. The most common legal grounds cited are irreconcilable differences.
However, in cases where there may be fault involved, some of the top reasons couples report filing for divorce include:
- Lack of commitment
- Financial stress
- Infidelity
- Substance abuse
- Domestic violence
- Lack of support from family
- Marrying too young
- Religious differences
Emotional and financial concerns are some of the leading causes of divorce, especially for younger couples. In California, divorce is more likely to be due to financial stress and military service-related separations.
Recent Trends In Divorce And Marriage
Marriage rates have dropped, which is believed to contribute to a lower U.S. divorce rate.
In 2000, there were 8.2 marriages per 1,000 people. By 2022, the number had dropped substantially to around 6.2 marriages per 1,000.
Younger adults often will delay marriage or choose to cohabitate with partners instead. This trend leads to fewer legal divorces being filed but doesn’t necessarily mean there are fewer breakups overall. As more couples focus on emotional compatibility, expectations have started to evolve in relationships.
What to Know if You Are Considering Divorce
California is a no-fault divorce state, which means spouses can end a marriage without having to assign blame to one partner or the other. This can often make divorce more accessible to many, but it doesn’t necessarily make it easier for those involved.
There are multiple legal steps, especially in cases where there are children or property, and California requires a six-month waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized.
Spouses in San Diego may need to address:
- Property division under California’s community property rules
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Spousal support based on income and duration of the marriage
For those just starting the divorce process, it’s important to understand laws regarding child custody, spousal support guidelines, and how property is divided.
Divorce Statistics Provide Insight but Aren’t All-Encompassing
While divorce seems more common today, the U.S. divorce rate has gone down over the last few decades. Still, many marriages end for one reason or another. Understanding divorce statistics and what impacts this decision can help provide much-needed insight for everyone involved.
Contact a Family Lawyer for a Consultation
San Diego Divorce Lawyers, APC, is here to help you, feel to give us a call at (619) 866-3756, or contact our family lawyer now for a initial consultation. At that time, you can receive some legal advice about your rights and the best course of action.
San Diego Divorce Lawyers, APC
2851 Camino del Rio S #430
San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 866-3756
