We've all heard various divorce statistics over the years, but the newly released 2023 data from Forbes sheds even more light on the intricacies of marriage dissolution in the United States. The statistics provide insights into when and how marriages end, which can be helpful for those going through a similar experience.
By delving into the nuances of these statistics, we can better understand the impact of factors such as age, social circles, and geographic location on the longevity of a marriage. Keep reading to take a closer look at this topic.
2023 Divorce Statistics
1. More People Marry Each Year Than Divorce
In 2021, 1,985,072 couples got married in the United States, with a marriage rate of 6 per 1,000 people. Meanwhile, a total of 689,308 divorces took place across 45 U.S. states that reported.
Although the divorce rate may seem high, it's important to note that more individuals are still choosing to walk down the aisle and exchange vows of commitment with their significant other.
2. Couples Tend to Divorce After a Decade
It's a common misconception that most marriages fail within the first few years. The reality is that the average length of a marriage before divorce is eight years. This means that by the time a couple decides to go their separate ways, they have likely invested a significant amount of time and effort into their relationship.
3. About Half of Divorcees Remarry
It's not uncommon for those who have gone through divorce to still believe in and pursue marriage. In fact, a notable majority of divorced individuals end up tying the knot again- with 64% of men and 52% of women choosing to remarry after their previous union ended.
However, additional research reveals that the success rate of second and third marriages decreases. According to statistics, 67% of second marriages end and 73% of third marriages are dissolved.
4. The Divorce Rate Has Decreased
The divorce rate in the United States has seen a steady decline over the past two decades. In 2000, almost one million divorces and annulments occurred, with a crude divorce rate of 4.00 per population during that year.
However, by 2021, the divorce rate had fallen to just 2.5 per 1,000 population, with only 689,308 people divorcing. This decline in divorces may be attributed to a variety of factors, including changing attitudes towards marriage and divorce, as well as fewer people getting married in general.
5. Divorced Friends Increases Your Risk of Divorce
The marital stability of a couple's friends plays a role in determining the longevity of their union. Studies have revealed that couples with friends who have gone through a divorce are more likely to end their marriage, with a 75% increased risk.
The link between a couple's friends and their marriage is so strong that even individuals two degrees removed from divorce face a 33% greater risk. This connection has led many professionals to speculate that divorce is a social contagion.
6. Lack of Commitment Is the Common Reason for Divorce
Statistics show that the lack of commitment is the most common reason for divorce, citing 75% of individuals and couples who have ended their marriages. Surprisingly, this outweighs infidelity, which is often thought to be the leading cause.
About 60% of couples cited a partner's infidelity as the reason for their split. While both causes can be detrimental to a marriage, it is important to recognize the significance of commitment and the impact it has on a relationship.
7. Most Divorcees Believe They Did All They Could to Save the Marriage
When a marriage comes to an end, feelings of blame can often run high. While some may feel they did not do enough to save the relationship, others believe their spouse could have worked harder to prevent it from falling apart.
Interestingly, a study found that 74% of women and 66% of men believed their ex-partners could have made more of an effort to avoid divorce.
8. Nevada Has the Highest Divorce Rate
Nevada carries the title of having the highest divorce rate in the United States, with 4.2 divorces per 1,000 marriages. Some speculate that the state's relaxed policies towards marriage may play a role in this statistic. Nevada is known for having lax rules surrounding both getting married and ending a marriage, potentially making it easier for couples to separate.
9. Couples Who Marry Before 32 Have Lower Divorce Rates
Studies show that the age at which couples get married has a significant impact on their likelihood of divorce. According to research, couples who get married at 25 have a 50% lower risk of divorce compared to those who marry at 20. Couples should consider their readiness for marriage and ensure they are making a thoughtful and informed decision beforehand, as 72% of couples reported that they did not fully understand the commitment involved in marriage.
However, the risk of divorce increases for couples who marry after age 32. In fact, divorce rates increase by 5% per year until the age at which they get married. This highlights the importance of timing when it comes to tying the knot.
10. Gaming Managers & Bartenders Have the Highest Divorce Rates
Some jobs can be a strain on personal relationships. Gaming managers and bartenders top the list with divorce rates of 52.9% and 52.7%, respectively. These challenging jobs often require working long hours outside of traditional business hours, which can lead to added stress and pressure on relationships. Following these numbers are flight attendants and rolling machine setters who also make the list with divorce rates of 50.5% and 50.1%.
Contact Our Divorce Attorneys
The latest divorce statistics for 2023 in the U.S. reveal an intriguing set of information. If you are in the contemplation stage or are already going through a divorce, it is essential to have legal guidance and support throughout the process.
At the Law Office of Alexandra White, P.C., our divorce attorneys have the experience to support you every step of the way. We understand the sensitive nature of divorce and can put our clients' well-being at the forefront.
Contact us today for a consultation and see how we can assist you. Call (303) 647-4245 or get in touch with us online.