The rate of divorce in California reflects both national divorce trends and the unique pressures tied to the different cities in California, income levels, and types of professions. While an unfortunate reality, employment often plays a big role in divorce. Determining what professions have the highest divorce rate in California can usually be broken down into several factors, such as long or irregular hours, workplace stress, and low pay.
According to the CDC, in 2022, there were 673,989 divorces in the United States. While being an incredibly painful experience to have to go through, you aren’t alone. It’s important to remember that you haven’t failed, and it’s okay to go through a divorce. Here at Kramer & Zitser, LLP, we focus on California family law and approach each client and case with the compassion they deserve.
Professions and the Likelihood of Divorce
8.9% of California residents in 2021 were reported as divorced. Some jobs have very high divorce rates, while others have lower rates, usually due to fields that are more stable and high-paying. The ten occupations with the lowest divorce rates include:
- Actuaries (17%). Actuaries analyze financial risk using math, often for insurance or pension plans.
- Physical Scientists (18.9%). Physical science includes fields like physics, chemistry, and earth science.
- Medical and Life Scientists (19.6%). Medical and life scientists research living organisms, diseases, and biological systems to improve medicine.
- Clergy (19.8%). Clergy members lead religious services and perform ceremonies like weddings and funerals.
- Software Developers (20.3%). Software developers create computer programs and applications for various devices and platforms.
- Physical Therapists (20.7%). Physical therapists help patients improve movement and manage pain through targeted treatment.
- Optometrists (20.8%). Optometrists are doctors who focus on the eyes.
- Chemical Engineers (21.1%). Chemical engineers design processes for manufacturing chemicals and materials.
- Religious and Education Directors (21.3%). These professionals develop and manage educational or spiritual programs for schools or religious organizations.
- Physicians and Surgeons (21.8%). Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat illnesses or injuries.
In contrast, several professions consistently show higher divorce rates. These professions often involve long hours, high stress, or inconsistent schedules. These occupations include:
- Gaming Managers (52.9%). Gaming managers oversee all operations in casinos, including supervising staff and ensuring gaming rules and regulations are followed.
- Bartenders (52.7%). Bartenders serve drinks to customers, often working night shifts in bars, restaurants, or clubs.
- Flight Attendants (50.5%). Flight attendants ensure passenger safety and comfort on airplanes. They are often gone for extended periods of time and relocated to new cities.
- Gaming Service Workers (50.3%). Gaming service workers assist casino patrons with games, handle payouts, and explain rules to players.
- Machine Operators and Tenders (around 50%). These workers monitor machines in manufacturing settings to produce goods or parts.
- Switchboard Operators (49.7%). Switchboard operators manage telephone systems by manually connecting incoming and outgoing calls.
- Telemarketers (49.2%). Telemarketers contact potential customers by phone to sell products or gather information.
- Textile Machine Operators (48.9%). Textile machine operators run machines that weave fabrics in textile production.
- Massage Therapists (47.8%). Massage therapists give massages to clients to help relieve pain and reduce stress.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (47%). Licensed practical nurses provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors.
Why Divorce Rates Are Higher in Certain Professions
Divorce is never easy, and many people experience it at some point, with their career having no influence on the decision. Profession-related divorce rates often correlate with uneven work schedules, psychological stress, and infidelity. Jobs that require long hours and overnight trips can add significant strain to a marriage, resulting in a breaking point.
For those living in California, top industries include construction, restaurants and food services, and elementary and secondary schools. Over one million workers were employed in California’s construction industry in 2022. These jobs can often be low-paying and include long hours, leading to marital strain.
Legal Options for Protecting Assets Before Divorce
With California’s median income being $96,334 in 2023, protecting assets before getting a divorce is vital. While some may see suggesting a prenuptial agreement as rude or unfair to their partner, a prenup is the simplest way to ensure fairness and protect your rights during any potential future divorce.
Under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act, prenups are legally enforceable if they meet specific criteria, including full disclosure, independent legal counsel, and no coercion while signing.
Having a prenup can save you a lot of time and money if you and your spouse ever get a divorce. They help outline how property will be divided and whether spousal support will be paid. Property can include your home, retirement accounts, bank accounts, and even debt. While divorce brings up a lot of emotional turmoil, that stress doesn’t have to extend to your property.
Here at Kramer & Zitser, LLP, our Los Angeles divorce attorneys have extensive experience helping our clients draft and enforce prenups.
FAQs
Q: How Long Do California Marriages Last?
A: In 2021, the average Californian marriage lasted about 19.7 years for opposite-sex couples. Same-sex marriages tend to be shorter, with male couples averaging 7.3 years and female couples averaging 7.4 years. However, this percentage could be indicative of the fact that same-sex marriage was only legalized in 2013. These statistics are important to consider for all couples.
Q: Does California Consider Job Stress When Determining Spousal Support?
A: California courts consider multiple factors when awarding spousal support, including each spouse’s earning capacity, financial needs, and health. While job stress isn’t a legal factor by itself, it can impact income and employability, which may influence the amount or duration of support. At Kramer & Zitser, LLP, we assess how work-related burnout may affect your ability to work or provide support during divorce negotiations.
Q: Can a Job Change During Divorce Affect the Outcome?
A: Yes. If either spouse changes jobs during the divorce process, it may affect the amount awarded for child support, spousal support, and division of property. A decrease in income could reduce financial obligations, while a higher-paying job may increase them. Courts may evaluate whether the change was voluntary and whether it was made in good faith.
Speak With a Member of Our Team
If you are in a high-conflict or high-asset divorce and need guidance, contact Kramer & Zitser, LLP. Our Los Angeles-based team combines the knowledge of two senior family law attorneys to protect your rights and resolve your case with precision. Reach out today to discuss your next steps in securing your future.
