How many marriages end in divorce

How many marriages end in divorce: Divorce Statistics for 2025

Divorce remains a significant part of the marital landscape in California and across the United States. While the commonly cited statistic that “half of all marriages end in divorce” may be outdated, the reality is that many couples still face difficult decisions about separation and the legal, emotional, and financial implications that follow. Understanding current divorce trends, risk factors, and the broader effects of marital breakdown can help individuals make informed choices about their relationships and futures.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our Los Angeles-based family law attorneys have guided countless individuals through the divorce process with clarity and compassion. Whether you’re considering divorce, concerned about its impact, or simply want to understand the data, this article offers insights grounded in the most recent national and California-specific statistics.

Let’s explore how frequently divorce occurs, what influences the likelihood of separation, and what it may mean for families across the state.

According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the national divorce rate among women aged 15 and older has declined steadily over the past decade—from 9.8 divorces per 1,000 women in 2012 to 7.1 per 1,000 in 2022. This downward trend reflects shifting societal norms, delayed marriage, and changing economic conditions, all of which may be contributing to fewer divorces overall.

However, while the annual rate of divorce may be decreasing, the lifetime risk of divorce remains significant. Research shows that approximately 43% of first marriages in the United States end in divorce. For those entering a second marriage, the divorce rate increases to around 60%, and for third marriages, the rate climbs even higher to 73%. These statistics highlight that while fewer people may be divorcing in a given year, many still face the likelihood of divorce at some point in their lives.

In states like California, which follows a no-fault divorce model, the divorce process is more accessible, allowing either spouse to file based on “irreconcilable differences” without proving wrongdoing. As a result, the ease of filing—combined with the pressures of high cost of living, career demands, and personal conflict—continues to influence divorce patterns in cities like Los Angeles.

As of 2025, California’s divorce rate stands at approximately 60%, surpassing the national average of 50%. This indicates that a higher proportion of marriages in California end in divorce compared to the broader United States.

In terms of the percentage of the population that is divorced, about 9% of California residents have experienced divorce. This figure is slightly higher than the national average, reflecting the state’s elevated divorce rate.

It’s important to note that while California’s divorce rate is higher than the national average, it is not among the highest in the country. Factors contributing to this include California’s no-fault divorce laws, which allow couples to divorce without proving wrongdoing, and the state’s diverse population with varying cultural attitudes toward marriage and divorce.

Understanding these statistics is crucial for individuals considering marriage or divorce in California, as they highlight the state’s unique legal landscape and social dynamics.

Cohabitation—living together before marriage—has become increasingly common in the U.S., with many couples viewing it as a natural step in their relationship. However, its impact on long-term marital success is still debated, and research shows that the timing and context of cohabitation may influence the likelihood of divorce.

The Cohabitation Effect: A Closer Look

Earlier studies suggested what researchers called the “cohabitation effect,” where couples who lived together before getting engaged or married experienced higher divorce rates than those who didn’t. One theory is that couples who slide into cohabitation without deliberate commitment may be less compatible or more likely to marry due to convenience rather than shared long-term goals. This can lead to “relationship inertia”—staying in a relationship because of shared leases or financial ties, not because of true readiness to marry.

Newer Research: Context Matters

More recent data paints a more nuanced picture. The negative correlation between cohabitation and divorce seems to weaken—or disappear entirely—when accounting for factors such as age, education level, and cultural or religious background. In fact, couples who cohabit after becoming engaged or with clear mutual intent to marry may face no increased risk of divorce at all.

What matters more than simply living together is how and why the decision to cohabit is made. Cohabitation that results from intentional planning, healthy communication, and mutual expectations tends to mirror the benefits of more traditional marital preparation.

California Context

In California, where the cost of living is high—particularly in urban centers like Los Angeles—cohabitation is often viewed as a practical financial decision. While living together may help couples pool resources, it can also mask deeper compatibility issues if entered into without clarity or shared goals. Understanding these risks and having open conversations about future plans can help mitigate problems down the line.

California is one of only a handful of U.S. states that follow a community property system when dividing assets in a divorce. Under California Family Code § 760, any income, property, or debt acquired by either spouse during the marriage is presumed to be community property—meaning it is owned equally by both spouses and subject to a 50/50 division upon divorce.

What Qualifies as Community Property?

Community property typically includes:

• Wages earned by either spouse during the marriage
• Real estate purchased with marital funds
• Retirement accounts (such as pensions or 401(k)s) accrued during the marriage
• Vehicles, businesses, and investment accounts acquired while married
• Debts (including credit card balances and loans) incurred during the marriage

Separate Property Is Treated Differently

Not all property is split equally. Separate property—which includes assets owned before marriage, inheritances, personal gifts, or anything acquired after the date of separation—is not divided during divorce. However, disputes often arise when separate and community property are commingled (e.g., using marital income to pay the mortgage on a separately owned home).

How It Impacts Divorce Outcomes in California

Because the law requires an equal division of community property, California divorces can be more rigid than in equitable distribution states, where judges have discretion to divide property “fairly” but not necessarily equally. This legal framework can influence everything from financial negotiations to court rulings—especially in high-asset divorces, or when one spouse has significantly more income or business ownership.

In cases involving contested asset division, courts may require a forensic accountant or other financial expert to trace property classifications and ensure a fair split. These complexities make it essential to work with a knowledgeable divorce attorney.

While every marriage is unique, certain recurring issues frequently lead couples to consider divorce. Understanding these common factors can help individuals and couples recognize potential challenges in their relationships.

Age at the Time of Marriage

One of the most reliable predictors of divorce is the age at which a couple marries. Couples who marry between the ages of 20 and 25 are significantly more likely to divorce than those who wait until their late 20s or early 30s. Marrying young is often associated with lower emotional maturity, limited life experience, and less financial stability—all of which can place additional strain on a marriage.

Education Level

Educational attainment plays a strong protective role in marital success. Individuals with a college degree or higher tend to have lower divorce rates compared to those with only a high school diploma or less. Education often correlates with better job prospects, communication skills, and long-term planning—traits that are conducive to stable relationships. In contrast, lower educational levels can be linked with economic hardship and fewer resources for resolving conflict.

Socioeconomic Status and Financial Stress

Money problems are one of the most frequently cited causes of marital conflict, and economic stress can significantly increase the likelihood of divorce. Couples facing chronic unemployment, housing instability, or excessive debt often experience higher levels of tension and dissatisfaction in their relationships. Conversely, financial stability tends to promote healthier communication and shared goal-setting, which can contribute to marital resilience.

Lack of Commitment

A predominant reason cited for divorce is a lack of commitment. When one or both partners are not fully invested in the marriage, it can lead to feelings of neglect and dissatisfaction. Over time, this disengagement can erode the foundation of the relationship.

Infidelity

Extramarital affairs, whether emotional or physical, breach the trust essential to a marital bond. Infidelity often results in feelings of betrayal and can be a catalyst for the dissolution of the marriage.

Communication Problems

Effective communication is vital for resolving conflicts and understanding each other’s needs. When communication breaks down, misunderstandings and resentment can build, making it challenging to maintain a healthy relationship.

Unrealistic Expectations

Entering marriage with unrealistic expectations about roles, responsibilities, or the nature of the relationship can lead to disappointment. When expectations are unmet, it can cause frustration and disillusionment, potentially leading to separation.

Constant Conflict and Arguing

Frequent arguments and unresolved conflicts can create a hostile environment. Over time, constant discord can diminish emotional intimacy and connection, making reconciliation difficult.

Lack of Intimacy

Emotional and physical intimacy are crucial components of a marital relationship. A decline in intimacy can lead to feelings of isolation and dissatisfaction, prompting some couples to part ways.

Domestic Violence and Abuse

Abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, is a serious issue that often necessitates the end of a marriage. Ensuring personal safety and well-being becomes a priority, leading individuals to seek divorce.

Substance Abuse

Addiction to drugs or alcohol can disrupt family dynamics, leading to trust issues, financial problems, and emotional distress. Substance abuse often places significant strain on a marriage, sometimes resulting in its dissolution.

Cultural and Religious Differences

Differences in cultural backgrounds or religious beliefs can lead to conflicting values and practices. If not navigated with mutual respect and understanding, these differences can become a source of contention in the marriage.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, we understand the complexities surrounding divorce. Our experienced family law attorneys in Los Angeles are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support. If you’re considering divorce or seeking guidance on family law matters, contact us today for a free case evaluation.