The ongoing cost of living crisis is causing many unhappy couples in England and Wales to delay divorce, as financial pressures mount. Recent statistics reveal that the average marriage ending in divorce lasted 13 years in 2025, the longest since records began in 1963. This trend suggests that couples are opting to stay together longer, often due to the daunting prospect of maintaining two separate households amidst rising costs.
Lawyers indicate that the financial burden of divorce, coupled with escalating costs for rent, mortgages, and childcare, is discouraging many from pursuing separation. As inflation continues to rise, couples are increasingly finding themselves in a position where they remain in unhappy or hostile living environments, which can have detrimental effects on all involved, especially children.
Moreover, some couples are choosing to live together even after deciding to separate, in order to share expenses and retain financial stability. This arrangement can lead to heightened tensions and a volatile home environment, further complicating the emotional landscape of the relationship.
While divorce has become more accessible, the fear of financial instability is prompting couples to explore alternatives like mediation or therapy before making the final decision. Seeking early advice can help couples navigate their options more effectively, potentially leading to quicker and more amicable resolutions without the need for court intervention.
Source: The Guardian
