The rate of divorce in the United States is declining but is still quite high. That’s not surprising considering the individual states have different marriage and divorce laws. Moreover, some states have higher divorce rates than others. Here is a list of some of the states with the highest divorce rates in America and the contributing factors.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, it’s relatively easy for couples to get divorced. The state does not require a spouse to prove wrongdoing or even be at fault for filing for divorce. This means that many people in Arkansas choose to file for divorce when they no longer want to stay married, which can contribute to high divorce rates. Another reason is that there are few residency requirements for obtaining a divorce in Arkansas, making it easier for couples living far away from each other to divorce.
Florida
According to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida is one the states with the highest divorce rates in America. In 2016 alone, the most recent year for which data is available, Florida saw over 619,000 marriages dissolve and over 338,000 divorces occur. In Florida, the law allows couples divorcing due to an “irretrievable breakdown” to divorce without requiring one party to prove abuse by the other party before making their final decision.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s divorce rate is higher than in most states. The reason for Oklahoma’s high divorce rate may be in part due to its economy. It is based on agriculture and oil production, which means that many jobs are seasonal or require long hours. This can make it difficult for couples to have consistent quality time together, find steady employment or make ends meet in general. All factors that strain a marriage.
Alaska
Alaska has a relatively low population but still has a divorce rate higher than the national average. Alaska’s high divorce rate may be attributed to high unemployment and poverty.
Texas
Texas is one of the only two states in the U.S. where more than half of all married people end up divorcing. Socioeconomic status could be one factor. Texas also has one of the highest percentages of people living below the poverty line. This can contribute to higher levels of stress and financial strain on families already struggling to overcome financial challenges.
Wyoming
Wyoming is among the states with the highest divorce rates. The high divorce rate in Wyoming may be driven by low education rates among its residents and a high rate of unemployment. Both of these are factors that can put strain on a union.
Nevada
Nevada is a fairly populous state, with about 1.4 million people per square mile. Nevada’s cost of living has crept up over the years, making it harder to afford a good standard of living. This means couples have to work longer and harder. Nevada has a large military presence as well, and deployment and other military duties can put a strain on a marriage. The state’s high rate of gambling may also be a factor, where gambling addiction impacts a marriage.
West Virginia
West Virginia has a higher divorce rate than most states in the country. One factor may be a lower rate of access to social services than in some states and lower income rates than many states.
Idaho
With low median household incomes and one of the highest rates of poverty in the country, Idaho is one of the states where divorce rates are very high. Contributing factors may also include the state’s population is younger than average, making it easier for couples to divorce if they don’t work out their problems during their first marriage.
Conclusion
Where someone lives will not be the cause of whether a marriage makes it or not, that will come down to the couple. However, we do see that some states have a higher divorce rate than others, so be warned. If you are getting a divorce, be sure to seek out a qualified divorce attorney for the best possible outcome in your divorce journey and post-divorce life.
