According to data compiled by the National Center for Family & Marriage Research[1], the divorce rate in the United States has fallen for the third consecutive year. In fact, it is the lowest it’s been in more than 40 years. Data shows that the divorce rate in 2015 was 16.9 divorces per 1,000 married women, which is down from a divorce rate of 17.6 in 2014. Just over one million couples filed for divorced in 2015, which is a decrease of 25% from 1980.
In order, the states with the highest divorce rates in 2015 were:
- Washington, D.C. – 29.9 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Wyoming – 27.9 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Nevada – 25.7 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Arkansas – 2.53 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Alaska – 22.7 divorces per 1,000 marriages
In order, the states with the lowest divorce rates in 2015 were:
- Hawaii – 11.1 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Wisconsin – 12.4 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Rhode Island – 12.6 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- Delaware – 12.9 divorces per 1,000 marriages
- New Jersey – 12.9 divorces per 1,000 marriages
Factors That Have Contributed to a Lower Divorce Rate
There are several factors that experts have attributed to a declining divorce rate in the U.S. – with the most significant being fewer marriages. Unlike Baby Boomers, who typically married at a younger age, younger generations have started postpone marriage, putting their careers and economic security first. More and more couples are also living together without marrying, which is a concept more widely accepted today than decades ago.
Filing for Divorce? Turn to The Virga Law Firm, P.A. for Help.
Although the number of divorces has continued to drop over the last several years, the fact remains that around 50% of marriages still end in divorce. If you have made the decision to dissolve your marriage, we encourage you to seek counsel from The Virga Law Firm, P.A. We offer same-day appointments and 24-hour service, so please do not hesitate to give us a call. Our firm is ready to help you through this difficult time.
Contact our office today at (800) 822-5170 to schedule your initial consultation.