Washington divorce rates have followed national trends in recent years, showing a gradual decline. But behind the statistics are real people, real families, and evolving social dynamics. Whether you’re curious about how divorce rates in Washington compare to the rest of the United States, or you’re considering divorce yourself, understanding these numbers can help you see the bigger picture.
What Are the Current Divorce Rates in Washington State?
According to the Washington State Department of Health, the most recent data shows:
- Washington divorce rate: Approximately 2.9 divorces per 1,000 people
- Number of divorces and annulments in Washington (2022): About 22,000 cases
- Marriage rate in Washington: About 5.3 per 1,000 people
These numbers reflect the legal filings of divorces, annulments, and legal separations registered at the state level. However, the actual number of marriages that end in separation may be higher, since not all couples formally dissolve their marriages in court.
How Washington Compares to National Averages
In the United States, the national divorce rate is currently around 2.5 per 1,000 people, according to the CDC. This means Washington has a slightly higher divorce rate than the national average, but not by much.
Historically, divorce rates in the U.S. peaked in the late 1970s and early 1980s. In Washington, the divorce rate reached as high as 5.0 per 1,000 in 2000, but has since steadily declined, mirroring national trends.
Why Are Divorce Rates Declining?
Many factors explain why Washington divorce rates and national rates are dropping:
- People are marrying later in life, often in their late 20s or early 30s, which reduces the risk of divorce.
- Cohabitation before marriage has become more common, allowing couples to “test the waters” before tying the knot.
- Education levels have increased, and studies show that people with college degrees tend to have lower divorce rates.
- Family planning and financial readiness play a bigger role in modern marriage decisions.
- Fewer people are getting married overall, which naturally leads to fewer divorces.
Age and Divorce in Washington
One trend family law attorneys often highlight is the rise of "gray divorce" divorces that occur at age 50 or older. While younger couples are divorcing less frequently, older couples are increasingly ending long-term marriages. In Washington, just like in the rest of the U.S., gray divorce is becoming more common as people rethink retirement, personal happiness, and financial independence later in life.
Which Counties Have the Highest Divorce Rates in Washington?
- Clarkston, Washington, has one of the highest percentages of divorced residents, at around 25.7% of the population.
- King County, the most populous county in Washington, reports the largest number of divorces filed, but its divorce rate is closer to the state average because of the larger population.
Common Reasons for Divorce
According to family law attorneys and data from the Washington Department of Health, the most commonly cited reasons for divorce include:
- Incompatibility or growing apart
- Financial stress or disputes about money
- Infidelity
- Lack of communication
- Substance abuse or addiction
- Domestic violence or emotional abuse
How Are Divorce Statistics Collected?
The Washington State Department of Health keeps track of marriage and divorce records dating back to 1968. These records help researchers, policymakers, and the public understand changes in marriage and family life at the state level.
If you're curious about specific numbers, the Department of Health offers a Marriage and Divorce Dashboard, where you can explore interactive charts, download spreadsheets, or request raw data.
Why Do Divorce Rates Matter?
Understanding divorce statistics isn't just about numbers. These trends affect:
- Family law policy
- Child custody guidelines
- Alimony and spousal support rulings
- Community support programs
- Financial planning for retirement or asset division
For anyone considering divorce, knowing the average age of divorce, divorce rates by region, and common outcomes can help prepare you for what’s ahead.