MENU
SEARCHA new study by FormRush reveals the top ten most expensive states for divorce, with an average cost of divorce in the United States of $7,567.
Alongside the expected high lawyer fees, the often-overlooked expense of simply filing for divorce adds to the financial strain.
Photo: Pexels.com / Karolina Grabowska
Divorce is a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for all parties involved. Beyond the emotional toll, the financial burden of a divorce can be particularly daunting. Alongside the expected high lawyer fees, the often-overlooked expense of simply filing for divorce adds to the financial strain.
In a new analysis by legal document provider FormRush, a combination of factors was taken into account to determine the most and least expensive states for divorce in 2024. These factors include lawyer fees (30%), the cost of living (20%), the estimated cost of divorce as a percentage of the household median income (40%), and filing fees (10%). This comprehensive approach sheds light on the varying costs associated with divorce proceedings across different states.
According to FormRush's research, the average cost of divorce in the U.S. is $7,567, equivalent to approximately 7% of an individual's annual average income. While Kansas has the lowest median divorce cost at $6,341.19, making it the most affordable state to get a divorce. However, California is the most expensive state for divorce due to its high cost of living index, with significantly higher lawyer wages and filing fees compared to other states.
The study shows that about 12% of the U.S. population resides in states where divorce is less expensive, while roughly 33% live in states with higher divorce costs. North Dakota has the lowest divorce rate at 0.8%, while Arkansas has the highest at 1.63%. California has the highest filing fees at $435, followed by Florida at $409, and several states at $402. It's essential for those going through a divorce to be aware that fees can vary by location and may consider factors like child support and custody.
Rank | State | Filing Fee | Average Lawyer Wage | Median Divorce Cost | Divorce Cost as Percent of Median Married Household Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | California | $435 | $84.46 | $10,159.00 | 8.03% |
2 | New York | $335 | $83.12 | $9,206.36 | 7.59% |
3 | Oregon | $301 | $63.97 | $8,450.08 | 7.81% |
4 | Massachusetts | $200 | $77.66 | $10,406.25 | 7.15.% |
5 | Alaska | $250 | $52.83 | $9,111.83 | 7.86% |
6 | Hawaii | $265 | $47.73 | $13,198.70 | 10.77% |
7 | Arizona | $280 | $58.18 | $7,788.32 | 7.55% |
8 | Nevada | $299 | $62.89 | $7,395.63 | 7.35% |
9 | Washington | $314 | $63.09 | $8,39.17 | 6.76% |
10 | Florida | $409 | $50.17 | $7,410.18 | 7.53% |
State Filing Fee (10%): This metric accounts for the filing fee associated with divorce in each state, sourced from the respective state's court website.
Average Lawyer's Salary (30%): The average cost of hiring an attorney for divorce proceedings was determined using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Cost of Living (20%): Data from the Missouri Center for Economic Research and Information was utilized to consider the variations in the cost of living across different regions, a critical factor for divorced couples transitioning to new housing and adjusting their financial responsibilities.
Estimated Cost of Divorce as a Percentage of Average Income of Married Families (40%): This metric was calculated by comparing the average cost of divorce to the median household income in each state, drawing on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Originally posted on Modern Salon
Bringing global haircare authority closer to the chair, the partnership marks a renewed investment in New England's salons and stylists.
This growing must-attend industry event honors leaders across hair, nails, and wellness while creating opportunities for the next generation.
Calling all students! Intercoiffure America Canada will select five student-nominated teachers for all-expenses-paid trips to its Fall Atelier in New York. Nominations are due June 15, 2026.
Billed as the most important three days for beauty in North America, the leading B2B event returns July 13-15th, uniting brands, suppliers, buyers, and the larger beauty industry across the full industry ecosystem.
The new backbar treatment is designed to moisturize and smooth hair while adding shine and body in just 10 minutes.
Shine Time: Aluram’s High Shine Line Delivers Moisture and Shine with Clean Ingredients
Sponsored by Aluram
Aura Salonware is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients. This first-time scholarship in partnership with the Professional Beauty Association awarded three different scholarships to support beauty professionals at every point in their professional journey.
Aura Salonware Grants three scholarships in 2026--one for a student, one for continuing education for a beauty pro, and a business scholarship for a new salon owner.
Though their Astronaut of Hope collection of brushes and clips, ERGO Styling Tools raises $33,000 to support HairToStay, the first and only national nonprofit dedicated to making scalp cooling treatments affordable for cancer patients.
A new report criticizes the regulations' impact against students and entrepreneurs.
The biotech-powered brand launches a global initiative designed to champion the educators and stylists shaping the future of the professional hair industry.
Their HOPE education center, located on a farm between Manhattan and Philadelphia, offers owners and stylists premier, technique-driven education.
Ahead of its annual comprehensive study, the International SPA Association reveals its Top 5 Stats at its annual conference. The stats show the industry is strong and growing.
The new LashLovr experience combines intelligent lash matching with real-time visualization using Perfect Corp.'s beauty APIs.
The KIM Report revealed that color sales were down in 2025, while overall color revenue was up. SalonInteractive's Alain Audet explains why and offers strategies for keeping color sales strong in 2026 and beyond.
With more than one million licensed professionals nationwide, industry leaders are celebrating growing momentum behind cosmetology and esthetics interstate compacts designed to reduce licensing barriers and expand career mobility.
The high-density extension designed to create dramatic results without bulk or stacking.
