In Germany, one in three marriages ends in divorce, with couples staying together for an average of 14.8 years. Most of these separations—69 out of every 100—are initiated by women.
The likelihood of divorce is highest during the first ten years of marriage: 16.6% of couples separate within five years, and another 25.6% between years six and ten. After two decades together, the chances of divorce significantly decline.
Leverkusen, located in western Germany, has earned the title of the country’s “Capital of Divorces,” with 91 divorces for every 100 marriages. Researchers have yet to pinpoint the reasons behind this striking trend. Other major cities also report high divorce rates: in Berlin, 47% of marriages end in divorce, while Hamburg sees an even higher rate at 58.21%.
In contrast, Bavaria stands out as a stronghold of marital longevity. The conservative region records the fewest divorces in the country. In the Bavarian town of Miesbach, just one in ten marriages ends in separation.
As for why divorces occur, German researchers highlight several societal changes. Fewer people view marriage as a lifelong institution, and growing financial independence among women has opened more opportunities for self-fulfillment. Additionally, evolving social attitudes have reduced the stigma surrounding divorce, particularly for women.
