Vermont Divorce Rates and Statistics

Vermont has one of the lowest divorce rates in the U.S. The refined rate, measured per 1,000 married women, is around 8 to 9 divorces. The crude rate, per 1,000 residents, is about 2.3 divorces. This consistently places the state well below the national average. Apparently, Vermonters either really love each other or just know how to avoid paperwork.

The median length of marriage in Vermont is about 23.1 years. This makes it the state with the longest average marriage duration in the U.S. So, Vermonters really know how to stick it out – long enough to become practically professional spouses.

Divorce Rate in Vermont in 2025

1. Among the Lowest Divorce Rates Nationally. Vermont consistently ranks near the bottom for divorce, with a crude rate of about 1.8–2.0 per 1,000 residents – well below the national average.
2. Reasons for Low Divorce Rate. Factors include higher education levels, later median age at first marriage, and a relatively stable economy. Apparently, smart, patient, and financially stable people just don’t break up that often – who knew?
3. Pure No-Fault Divorce State. Divorce (legally called “dissolution of marriage”) only requires that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” and the couple has lived separate and apart for a set period.
4. Mandatory Separation Period
   • Six months if no minor children
   • One year if minor children
     Separation can even occur under the same roof if the couple has ceased marital relations. Because nothing says “healthy divorce” like arguing under the same roof for months on end.
5. Equitable Distribution of Property. Marital assets and debts are divided fairly, considering each spouse’s contributions – including homemaking – not automatically 50/50.
6. Fault is Irrelevant. Judges cannot consider marital misconduct when dividing property or awarding alimony; decisions focus strictly on financial needs, abilities, and contributions. So go ahead, spill the beans on that secret affair – it won’t help you get a bigger share.
7. One-Year Residency Requirement. To file for divorce, at least one spouse must have been a Vermont resident for one year immediately prior to filing.

Divorce Rate in Vermont in 2024

1. Lowest Divorce Rate Nationally. Vermont has one of the lowest divorce rates in the U.S., significantly below the national average of 14.2 divorces per 1,000 married women, reflecting strong marital stability.
2. Long Residency Requirement. Divorce can be filed if one spouse has lived in Vermont for six months, but the court generally cannot grant the final decree until a continuous one-year residency is met. Because apparently, patience really is a virtue – even when you’re ready to split.
3. Mandatory Separation Period. Couples must live separate and apart for at least six consecutive months before filing, with reconciliation deemed improbable. This separation can occur under the same roof if marital relations cease and living arrangements are distinct.
4. Waiver of the “Nisi Period”. After the judge signs the decree, there is normally a 90-day waiting period before the divorce is final. In 2024, both parties can agree to waive or shorten this period, making the divorce immediate. Because nothing says “final freedom” like a judge-imposed countdown timer.
5. Hybrid Grounds State. Vermont recognizes both no-fault (irreconcilable differences) and specific fault grounds, including adultery, extreme cruelty, and willful desertion.
6. Equitable Distribution of Property. Property and debts are divided fairly based on contributions – including homemaking – not automatically 50/50. Judges focus on what is equitable, not equal. So all that scrubbing and cooking might actually earn you a few extra dollars – who knew?
7. High Median Age Factor. Vermont’s older median age contributes to its low divorce rate, as higher ages at first marriage often correlate with longer-lasting marriages.

Divorce Rate in Vermont in 2023

1. Lowest Divorce Rate in the U.S.. Vermont had the lowest refined divorce rate in 2023, with approximately 28–39 divorces per 1,000 married women—well below the national average of ~144 per 1,000.
2. Long Median Marriages. Vermont ranks in the top 10 for longest marriages ending in divorce, with a median duration of about 22.4 years. Because if you’re going to fail, you might as well stick around for two decades.
3. Dual Residency Requirement
   • To file: at least one spouse must have lived in Vermont for six months
   • To finalize: at least one spouse must have a continuous one-year residency
4. Mandatory “Nisi” Waiting Period. Even after a judge signs the final decree, there is a mandatory three-month waiting period before the divorce is legally final. Nothing like a court-imposed timeout after finally making up your mind.
5. Six-Month Separation for No-Fault Divorce. Couples must live separate and apart for at least six consecutive months, proving the marriage is irretrievably broken. This period can run concurrently with the filing process.
6. “Same-Roof” Separation Allowed. Vermont courts allow spouses to meet the separation requirement while living under the same roof, as long as they maintain separate lives (separate bedrooms, finances, etc.). Because nothing says “divorcing in harmony” like separate bedrooms under one roof.
7. Fault and No-Fault Grounds. Divorce can be filed for no-fault reasons (“irremediable breakdown”) or for specific fault grounds such as adultery, willful desertion, or refusal to support – though no-fault is most common.