Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Divorce Rate

    Last updated: February 14, 2026

    1.8

    per 1,000

    The global average divorce rate is approximately 1.8 per 1,000 people per year. Russia (3.9), the US (2.5), and Belarus (3.7) have high rates, while India (0.01) and Sri Lanka (0.15) have very low rates. The global rate has been increasing over the past 50 years.

    Share

    Why This Average Exists

    Divorce rates reflect family stability, gender equality, economic independence, and legal accessibility of divorce, impacting child welfare and housing demand.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Divorce Rate

    • Legal accessibility
    • Cultural/religious norms
    • Women's economic independence
    • Education levels
    • Urbanization
    • Domestic violence laws

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2023–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading