What Divorce Really Costs – and Why Restoration Is Worth It

This article begins a series on the high “costs” of divorce.  We don’t write these articles lightly. Divorce is one of the most difficult and painful decisions a couple can face.  And while there are circumstances —such as abuse—where separation is wise, most divorces are the result of couples feeling stuck, disconnected, or hopeless.  Our desire in this series is to gently and honestly talk about the very real “costs” of divorce—“costs” that often go far beyond what people expect.

Today, let’s talk about the financial cost of divorce.

The Up-Front Price Tag:  The average cost of a divorce ranges between $15,000 to $20,000 per spouse (Forbes, 2023). In cases where there are disputes over children, property, or support, that number can double.

“Do-it-yourself” divorces, promoted as inexpensive, range from $435 to $500 on average.  But many couples attempting to handle things themselves end up needing professional help—driving up the final bill.

The Long-Term Financial Strain:  Divorce doesn’t just drain your current bank account, it reshapes your financial future.  Consider these realities:

• Expense of two households: Research shows that single divorcees need a 30% increase in income just to maintain the same standard of living they had while married.
• Depleted Retirement Savings: Studies indicate that divorced individuals hold 77% less wealth than their married peers
• Child support and alimony obligations: These can last decades—placing long-term strain on both parties.
• Lost equity and assets: Homes, vehicles, and businesses often must be sold or divided, frequently at a financial loss.

The Hidden Cost of Your Children’s Future:  Research found that children of divorced parents are more likely to experience lower household incomes and decreased access to higher education.  Financial resources that once concentrated on an intact family’s future are now divided between two separate households. Funds that could have been invested in a family’s home, children’s education, or IRA’s.

Why Restoration Costs Less: We know firsthand that working through marriage struggles isn’t easy. But when compared to the crushing financial toll of divorce, investing in restoring a  marriage is almost always the wiser—and more hopeful—choice. Getting the help needed to save a marriage costs a fraction of what a divorce does, and keeps couples from tearing their families apart.

If you or someone you know is facing this difficult season, please know you don’t have to go through it alone. The Marriage Hub exists to walk with couples in crisis, offering biblical, practical, and compassionate help through our Marriage Intensive Retreats.

To learn more or take the first step toward hope, visit www.themarriagehub.com, call or text (833) 482-4968, or email us at [email protected].

Your marriage matters—and there is hope for restoration.