Michigan’s divorce rate generally falls near or slightly above the national average. The state-reported crude divorce rate is about 4.1 divorces per 1,000 residents. Federal provisional data, however, shows a lower figure around 2.3 per 1,000. This variation makes it clear that Michigan sits somewhere in the middle compared to other states. So, in Michigan, marriages are neither doomed nor perfect – just pleasantly average.
In Michigan, marriages that end in divorce last a median of about 9 years and 8 months. This figure specifically reflects marriages that do not last. So, if you’re tying the knot in Michigan, don’t forget to set your “divorce countdown” alarm.
| Age Group (Years) | Female Divorce Rate (per 1,000) – 2023 | Male Divorce Rate (per 1,000) – 2023 | Key Michigan Trend Observations |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 20 | 2.0 | 1.5 | The lowest rates, likely due to a very small married population in this group. |
| 20-24 | 20.8 | 19.3 | Highest Rate. This age group has the highest rate of divorce for both sexes. |
| 25-34 | 37.0 | 34.8 | Rates are high, showing that this is a key period for marital dissolution. |
| 35-44 | 23.0 | 23.4 | A significant drop from the 25-34 age group, stabilizing in middle age. |
| 45 and older | 18.3 | 19.0 | Includes the “Gray Divorce” phenomenon—rates are higher for older males than females in this combined group. |
| Overall Crude Rate (All Ages) | 4.1 per 1,000 population (approximate) | 4.1 per 1,000 population (approximate) | Michigan’s overall crude rate has been declining in recent decades. |
Divorce Rate in Michigan in 2025
- Below National Average Rate. Michigan generally has a low to moderate divorce rate, around 2.3 divorces per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the U.S. average.
- Pure No-Fault State. Divorce only requires a “breakdown of the marriage relationship,” with no fault needed.
- Fault Still Matters for Finances. Misconduct like adultery, cruelty, or abandonment can influence property division and spousal support, though the court’s goal is fairness, not punishment.
- Two-Tier Mandatory Waiting Period
- 60 days: No minor children
- 180 days: With minor children
- Equitable Distribution State. Marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, based on factors such as marriage duration, contributions, and children’s needs.
- Separate Property Can Be Divided. Judges may use separate property (pre-marriage assets or gifts/inheritances) if the marital estate cannot meet the needs of the other spouse.
- Regional Variation in Divorce Rates. Higher divorce rates are seen in smaller communities and northern/rural counties, while urban areas generally show lower rates.
- High Median Age for Divorce. The median age at divorce is rising: 44 for men, 41 for women, reflecting a trend of marrying later.
Divorce Rate in Michigan in 2024
- Below-Average Crude Divorce Rate. Michigan’s divorce rate is about 2.3 per 1,000 residents, below the national average of 2.5, continuing a long-term decline.
- Pure No-Fault State. Divorce only requires a “breakdown of the marriage relationship” – no fault needs to be proven.
- Long Mandatory Waiting Periods
- 60 days: No minor children
- 180 days (6 months): With minor children
- Fault Still Impacts Financial Outcomes. Misconduct like infidelity or financial abuse can influence property division and spousal support, even in a no-fault divorce.
- Equitable Distribution Standard. Marital property and debt are divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, considering factors like contributions and marriage length.
- “Gray Divorce” Trend. Divorces among couples 50 and older are increasing, with a notable rise for those 65+ over the past decades.
- Residency Requirement. To file in Michigan, either spouse must have lived in the state 180+ days, and in the county 10+ days before filing.
Divorce Rate in Michigan in 2023
- Significant Volume of Divorces. Michigan recorded 20,491 divorces statewide in 2023, showing ongoing demand for legal and family support resources.
- Low to Average Crude Divorce Rate. The crude divorce rate was approximately 2.5 per 1,000 residents, near the national average, placing Michigan in the middle tier for marital stability.
- Long-Term Decline in Divorce Rates. The rate dropped from 5.2 per 1,000 in 2019 to 4.1 per 1,000 in 2023, reflecting a notable long-term decline.
- Highest Divorce Rates by Age. Adults aged 35–44 had the highest rates: 10.8 per 1,000 for women, 9.9 per 1,000 for men, while the youngest adults (20–24) had the lowest.
- Strong “Gray Divorce” Trend. Median age at divorce was 44 for men, 41 for women, with those 45 and older divorcing at nearly the same rate as younger adults.
- Pure No-Fault State. Divorce only requires stating that the marriage has broken down, with no proof of fault like adultery or cruelty needed.
- Fault Can Affect Financial Outcomes. Judges may consider a spouse’s misconduct when dividing property or awarding alimony, even though it’s a no-fault state.
- Residency Requirement. To file, either spouse must have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days. The process usually takes several months, though no additional state-mandated waiting period applies.