The Truth Behind the Percentage of Marriages That End in Divorce
We’ve all heard the phrase: “Half of all marriages end in divorce.” But is that still true today? The topic of divorce rates has long been the subject of public debate and personal concern. If you’re curious about the percentage of marriages that end in divorce, you’re not alone. At JOS Family Law, we help individuals understand the realities of marriage and divorce from both a legal and personal perspective.
Understanding the Numbers
Historically, divorce rates in the United States surged in the 1970s and 1980s. During that time, nearly 50% of marriages were estimated to end in divorce. However, more recent studies suggest a different trend. According to data from the American Psychological Association and the U.S. Census Bureau:
The current percentage of marriages that end in divorce is closer to 39-41%
Divorce rates have been gradually declining over the last two decades
Younger generations, particularly Millennials, are divorcing at lower rates than previous ones
This shift may be due to factors like delayed marriage, increased education, and changing social norms.
Factors That Influence Divorce Rates
There’s no one-size-fits-all reason for why marriages fail, but certain risk factors do increase the likelihood of divorce:
Age at Marriage
Couples who marry young (especially before 25) are statistically more likely to divorce than those who wait until their late twenties or thirties.
Education and Income
Higher levels of education and financial stability tend to correlate with lower divorce rates.
Family History
Individuals from divorced families may be more likely to experience divorce themselves.
Cohabitation Before Marriage
Though once thought to reduce divorce risk, studies have shown mixed results regarding cohabitation and long-term marital success.
Communication and Conflict Resolution
A couple’s ability to resolve conflict in healthy ways is a strong predictor of marital longevity.
Understanding these factors can help couples evaluate the health of their relationship and seek help when needed.
Divorce Trends by Marriage Order
Divorce rates vary significantly depending on whether it’s a first, second, or third marriage:
First marriages: Approximately 40% end in divorce
Second marriages: Around 60% end in divorce
Third marriages: Up to 73% end in divorce
These statistics highlight the challenges of remarriage and the importance of working through issues that may carry over from past relationships.
What This Means for You
Knowing the percentage of marriages that end in divorce isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making informed decisions. Whether you’re considering marriage, already married, or contemplating divorce, having realistic expectations is crucial.
At JOS Family Law, we help clients understand their rights, responsibilities, and options. Our team specializes in family law matters, including:
Divorce and legal separation
Child custody and visitation
Spousal and child support
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
Final Thoughts
While divorce is still a common reality, it’s no longer true that “half of all marriages fail.” Today’s statistics show a more optimistic outlook, especially for couples who communicate well and plan wisely. If you’re concerned about your own relationship or considering a legal separation, understanding the facts is the first step.