Why Florida’s Divorce Rate Is Higher Than Average

Divorce rates are on the rise across the country and Florida is no exception to this general trend.  In fact, at 3.4 percent, the divorce rate in Florida is the sixth highest in the U.S. This has largely been attributed to a few different characteristics that are specific to the state itself. Florida’s no-fault divorce laws and simpler filing process, for instance, likely play a role in the high divorce rate, as does the state’s aging population.

Florida’s No-Fault Laws 

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that couples aren’t required to prove that one or the other was at fault for the end of a marriage to end their union. This generally makes it easier to get a divorce, as couples need only demonstrate that their marriage is irretrievably broken in order to legally end their marriage. The general simplicity of the filing process in Florida also makes it more likely that couples will file for divorce.

An Aging Population 

Florida is well-known as a popular destination for retirees, who relocate to the state in search of a warmer climate, beautiful scenery, and a slower pace. These older couples, however, have shown an increasing willingness to file for divorce, often after many years of marriage, a trend known as grey divorce. In fact, those who were born in the 1940’s have one of the highest divorce rates of any generation. With many of these individuals now living in Florida to enjoy their retirements, it comes as no surprise that their filings would contribute to the state’s higher divorce rate.

The Lower Cost of Living 

Unlike many states, Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, which means that the cost of living often ends up being much lower than it is for residents of other states. Divorce itself can be an expensive process, so having a low cost of living can make all the difference when it comes to a couple’s ability to pay legal fees and other divorce-related costs. The affordability of divorce in Florida is partially reflected in the state’s relatively high divorce rate.

Florida Lifestyle 

Another potential reason for the high divorce rate in Florida is the state’s reputation as being a great place for a fresh start. Besides retirees, many people come to Florida to start a new life amidst new surroundings and new people. Unfortunately, marriage troubles that existed somewhere else often persist despite a change in scenery, meaning that a couple could end up filing for divorce in their new home state.

Are You Thinking About Filing for Divorce? 

If you live in Florida and are contemplating divorce, you should strongly consider reaching out to an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer for advice and assistance. For an explanation of what you can expect throughout the divorce process, please call Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. at 954-945-7591 or reach out to us via online message. A member of our legal team is standing by and eager to get started on your case right away.

Sources:

nbcmiami.com/news/local/january-is-divorce-month-see-where-florida-ranks-when-it-comes-to-marriage-breakups/3205043/

wcjb.com/2024/01/23/january-is-divorce-month-florida-ranks-no-6-with-divorce-rate-ncfl-attorneys-report-uptick-cases/