Divorce is not just emotionally challenging — it can also be expensive. The cost of divorce varies dramatically depending on your state, whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, and whether you hire an attorney. Understanding the potential costs can help you plan financially.
Average Cost of Divorce in the United States
- Uncontested divorce (no attorney): $150 – $500 (filing fees only)
- Uncontested divorce (with attorney): $1,500 – $5,000
- Contested divorce (with attorney): $10,000 – $30,000 (average)
- High-net-worth or complex divorce: $50,000 – $200,000+
Factors That Affect Divorce Costs
1. Whether You Hire an Attorney
Attorney fees are the largest expense in most divorces. Most family law attorneys charge $200 – $500 per hour. Some offer flat fees for uncontested divorces.
2. Contested vs. Uncontested
If you and your spouse agree on all terms — asset division, child custody, support — the process is much faster and cheaper. Disagreements that require court hearings can quickly drive up costs.
3. Whether Children Are Involved
Divorces with children typically cost more due to custody evaluations, parenting plans, and child support calculations.
4. Your State
Some states are significantly more expensive for divorce:
- California: $15,000 – $30,000 (average)
- New York: $12,000 – $25,000
- Texas: $8,000 – $20,000
- Florida: $8,000 – $18,000
- Illinois: $10,000 – $22,000
- Ohio: $6,000 – $15,000
How to Reduce Divorce Costs
- Consider mediation or collaborative divorce
- Gather financial documents before meeting with an attorney
- Focus on what truly matters and compromise on smaller issues
- Use online filing services for uncontested divorces
Consult a family law attorney for a personalized estimate of your divorce costs.