Marriage and divorce are integral parts of life for many individuals in Texas. While marriage is seen as a joyous and lifelong union between two individuals, sometimes things don't work out as planned. Numerous marriages in Texas end in divorce because of problems that can be simple or complex, depending on the situation. Because of the complexities surrounding some cases and the general divorce process in Texas, the help of qualified attorneys like us here at the Law Office of Bryan Fagan is necessary.

Marriage Rates in Texas

Marriage rates in Texas have been declining over the past few decades. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), the marriage rate in Texas was 6.7 per 1,000 population in 2019, a decrease from 8.4 per 1,000 population in 2000. However, this downward trend in marriage rates is not unique to Texas, as the decline is across the United States.

Although Texas marriage statistics for 2022 are not out, the most recent is from 2020. In 2020, there were 174,850 marriages in Texas, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The median age at first marriage is also increasing in Texas. In 2019, the median age at first marriage was 29.1 years for men and 27.1 years for women. Here is also a table showing the decline in marriage rates in Texas over the past decade:

As you can see from the table, the marriage rate in Texas has declined steadily over the past decade, from 8.8 marriages per 1,000 population in 2010 to 6.7 marriages per 1,000 population in 2019. These figures show a decline of over 23% in the marriage rate over the decade.

Factors Affecting Marriage Rates in Texas

Here are some of the common factors currently affecting marriage rates in Texas:

1. Changing Social Attitudes

One of the factors affecting marriage rates in Texas is changing social attitudes. Younger generations tend to view marriage differently from their parents and grandparents. They are more likely to consider marriage an option rather than a necessity. Younger people are also more likely to value personal freedom and independence, making them hesitant to commit to a long-term relationship like marriage. Additionally, there is a growing trend of people choosing to cohabitate instead of getting married.

2. Economic Factors

Economic factors also play a significant role in declining marriage rates in Texas. The cost of living has increased significantly in recent years, making it more challenging for couples to afford the expenses associated with marriage. Many young adults also delay marriage to focus on their education and careers. They may want to establish themselves in their careers and achieve financial stability before marrying. Additionally, the high cost of weddings and other associated expenses can deter some couples.

3. Cultural and Ethnic Differences

Cultural and ethnic differences also contribute to the declining marriage rates in Texas. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, Hispanic and Black populations in Texas have lower marriage rates than the White population. These disparities can be attributed to cultural and economic factors, among other things. For example, in some cultures, there may be more pressure to marry at a younger age, while others emphasize establishing oneself financially before getting married.

4. Gender Imbalance

Gender imbalance is another factor that can affect marriage rates in Texas. In some parts of the state, there may be more women than men, making it harder for women to find suitable partners. In these areas, women may be more likely to delay marriage or choose not to marry.

5. Lack of Social Support

A lack of social support can also contribute to declining marriage rates in Texas. Many young adults may feel that they do not have the support they need to sustain a long-term relationship like marriage. They may feel isolated or lack a sense of community, making it harder to form and maintain healthy relationships.

Divorce Rates in Texas

Texas has one of the highest divorce rates in the country. According to the NCHS, the divorce rate in Texas was 2.9 per 1,000 population in 2019, which is slightly lower than the national average of 3.2 per 1,000. However, this still translates to a large number of divorces each year. In 2020, there were 64,530 divorces in Texas, a slight decrease from 66,756 divorces in 2019. The median length of marriage before divorce in Texas is 9.9 years, slightly lower than the national average of 11 years. Here is a table showing the divorce rates in Texas based on data from the Texas Department of State Health Services:

As the table shows, the divorce rate in Texas has been steadily declining over the past decade, with a significant drop in 2020. The divorce rate per 1,000 population was 3.1 in 2011 and decreased to 2.3 in 2020. However, it is crucial to note that the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted divorce rates in 2020, and it remains to see if this trend continues in the coming years.

Reasons for Divorce in Texas

While every divorce is unique, there are some common reasons why couples in Texas choose to end their marriages. Here are a few of them:

1. Infidelity

Infidelity is one of the most common reasons for divorce in Texas. When one partner is unfaithful, it can be a devastating betrayal that is often difficult to overcome. Infidelity can erode trust, lead to jealousy and insecurity, and ultimately cause irreparable damage to the relationship.

2. Financial Problems

Money problems can also be a significant factor in divorce. When couples struggle to make ends meet or have different financial priorities, it can create tension and conflict. Financial problems can also be worsened by job loss, mounting debt, and disagreements about spending habits.

3. Communication Issues

Communication is essential to any healthy relationship, and when couples struggle to communicate effectively, it can lead to problems that are difficult to resolve. Poor communication can take many forms, such as failing to express one's feelings, refusing to listen to the other person, or engaging in constant arguments and criticism.

4. Abuse

Abuse in any form is unacceptable and is a reason for divorce in Texas. Domestic violence, emotional abuse, and other forms of mistreatment can have long-lasting effects on both partners and any children involved. It is vital for those experiencing abuse to seek help and support to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Child Custody in Texas

Child custody is often a significant issue when couples with children divorce in Texas. In Texas, the courts use the “best interest of the child” standard when making custody decisions. This means that the court will consider factors such as the child's emotional and physical needs, the ability of each parent to provide for the child, and the child's relationship with each parent.

In most cases, Texas courts prefer to award joint custody to both parents as long as it is in the child’s best interests. However, in some cases, one parent may be awarded sole custody if the other parent is deemed unfit or if it is in the best interest of the child.

Other Related Blogs

• Investigating the Implications of Marriage Duration on Divorce Settlements in Texas
• Understanding Marriage in Texas: An Expert Overview
• How many marriages end in divorce?
• Why do police marriages fail?
• Same-Sex Marriage and its relationship to Estate Planning and family law in Texas
• Why do first responder marriages fail?
• If Marriage wasn't "legal" can the court grant a divorce?
• Premarital agreements- a unique plan for your marriage?
• Christmas Divorce: Surviving the Holidays in an Unhappy Marriage
• Can Common Law Marriage be Backdated / Is Obergefell Retroactive?

FAQs about Divorce in Texas