COST OF DIVORCE + SIGNS OF DIVORCE

Published 1/15/24       

Updated 8/18/25

DIVORCE RATE

Divorces are an all too common occurrence in today’s society, sadly.

So roughly that equates to 40-50% of marriages end in divorce.

To break it down further it’s "roughly 2 out of 5 (American) marriages end in divorce" (i.e., 40%) is a reasonable simplification supported by various demographic estimates.

Although divorce rates appear to be declining which is great but still mount up to almost half of marriages ending in divorce.

According to Forbes “In 2022, a total of 673,989 divorces occurred across the 45 U.S. states that report this statistics…”

Also noting "…what about the famous statistic that half of all marriages end in divorce? That’s true, but only when it comes to first marriages, half of which are dissolved. Second and third marriages actually fail at a far higher rate.”

There is a new trend of what’s being labeled or called “gray divorce.” This is the age group 50+ now ending their 20 - 40+ year marriages at a stunning rate.

  • Forbes and Women’s Health note some of the turning points in these cases with Women’s Health also sharing some additional info on how to cope.

COST OF DIVORCE

The cost of divorce is an expense that many are not prepared for. Divorce can have a hefty price tag of approximately $15,000 - $20,000 of course which varies by state.

The average cost nationwide is approximately $7,000.

On the low end of DIY “do it yourself” divorce could cost $200 or below or more, that also depends on state fees and procedures along with being an uncontested divorce.

An uncontested divorce (this can also be considered “collaborative” or “amicable” divorce) means that both parties agree to ALL the terms of the divorce or aren’t fighting (contesting) over the terms.

The terms are decisions on children, custody, money or assets and not trying to stop the divorce from happening. More challenging and messy divorces could cost much much more in the $700,000+ range depending on assets.

The main driver in high cost for divorce is whether or not the soon to be former couple can agree on the terms of the divorce. The more drawn out the process the more costly.

source:Forbes

signs of divorce

What are the signs???… You might be asking yourself. Or there were no signs or did I really miss them?

Sometimes when we are on “go mode” or just “coasting through”, we may not be aware of certain things or spousal behaviors.

Below you will find a few of the BIG and most common signs of divorce.

  1. Break down in COMMUNICATION - arguing over the simplest of things

  2. No RESPECT- being dismissive or insensitive to partners feelings

  3. No TOUCHY TOUCHY - lack of intimacy or sex

Now couples can definitely hit a rough patch in their marriage and experience some of these signs and recover which is awesome for those willing to do the work it takes to reset but others may not. KNOW THE SIGNS!

Also just to note the more common reasons associated with divorce include:

  1. cheating (infidelity)

  2. domestic violence

  3. substance abuse

  4. other - but of course there are many other reasons why marriages may not make it to forever.

Check out a few other sources for Signs Of Divorce:

Note: These guidelines provide general information and should not be considered legal advice.

Divorce can have significant emotional, financial, and legal implications.

We encourage all individuals to seek guidance from qualified attorneys, licensed mental health professionals, legal advisors, counsel or financial experts as needed and tailored to your specific circumstances.


WHERE TO START