Divorce can stem from a variety of factors, including communication issues, financial stress, or lifestyle differences. However, certain professions are statistically more prone to marital difficulties. These jobs often involve high stress, long hours, or environments that strain relationships. Here’s a look at 20 jobs with the highest divorce rates, why these careers are challenging, and actionable tips to safeguard your marriage. While some professions statistically have higher divorce rates, no job predetermines relationship failure. Understanding the challenges of your career and taking proactive steps to maintain your connection can help safeguard your marriage. With effort, communication, and support, couples in any profession can thrive together. From long hours to high stress, certain jobs have statistically higher divorce rates. This article explores these professions, the reasons behind the trend, and offers tips to protect relationships.
Jobs with the Highest Divorce Rates
Divorce Rate: ~43%
Challenges: Irregular hours, physical demands, and frequent travel can strain communication and intimacy.
Tips: Establish routines to reconnect during off-hours and set boundaries for time apart.
balletmet
Bartenders
Divorce Rate: ~38%
Challenges: Late-night shifts, high social interactions, and exposure to alcohol-related environments can create temptations.
Tips: Build trust and regularly communicate to address potential insecurities.
punchdrink
Massage Therapists
Divorce Rate: ~36%
Challenges: Physical closeness with clients may lead to misunderstandings or jealousy.
Tips: Be transparent with your partner about work practices and maintain clear boundaries.
modelwellness
Gaming and Casino Workers
Divorce Rate: ~34%
Challenges: Irregular hours, high stress, and potential exposure to vices like gambling.
Tips: Set boundaries around work-life balance and prioritize healthy habits.
ALEX HOFFORD | Credit: EPA
Military Personnel
Divorce Rate: ~29%
Challenges: Long deployments, frequent relocations, and intense work pressures.
Tips: Leverage military family support services and maintain communication during separations.
Sgt. 1st Class Michel Sauret/U.S. Army
Truck Drivers
Divorce Rate: ~28%
Challenges: Long-haul schedules lead to isolation and limited time with family.
Tips: Use technology to stay connected and plan quality family time during breaks.
cloudtrucks
Police Officers and Firefighters
Divorce Rate: ~26%
Challenges: Emotional strain, irregular hours, and dangerous situations.
Tips: Seek counseling or support groups to manage stress and foster understanding.
Youtube
Entertainers and Performers
Divorce Rate: ~25%
Challenges: Public scrutiny, irregular hours, and frequent travel.
Tips: Foster trust and make time for shared activities to strengthen the bond.
datausa
Health-Care Workers (e.g., Nurses)
Divorce Rate: ~23%
Challenges: Long, irregular shifts and emotionally draining work.
Tips: Prioritize self-care and use shared calendars to schedule family time.
Kiwis | Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Telemarketers
Divorce Rate: ~21%
Challenges: High-pressure sales environments and financial instability.
Tips: Set realistic goals and communicate about financial plans.
Getty Images
Teachers
Divorce Rate: ~20%
Challenges: After-hours commitments and emotional investment in students.
Tips: Establish boundaries between work and home life.
Anne Bannister/ Raise Your Hand Texas
Athletes, Coaches, and Sports Officials
Divorce Rate: ~19%
Challenges: Extensive travel and high performance pressure.
Tips: Create a support system and dedicate time for loved ones.
refrsports
Pilots and Flight Attendants
Divorce Rate: ~18%
Challenges: Time away from home, irregular schedules, and high stress.
Tips: Make the most of time together and build routines for communication.
YakobchukOlena | Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Real Estate Agents
Divorce Rate: ~17%
Challenges: Income uncertainty and unpredictable hours.
Tips: Set financial goals together and prioritize family time during slower periods.
lewkmiller/GettyImages; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate
Lawyers
Divorce Rate: ~16%
Challenges: Long hours, high-stress cases, and emotional exhaustion.
Tips: Plan regular downtime to recharge and connect.
Getty Images
Social Workers
Divorce Rate: ~15%
Challenges: Emotional toll of helping others and extended work hours.
Tips: Practice self-care and seek peer support for professional challenges.
mjhs
Sales Representatives
Divorce Rate: ~15%
Challenges: Performance pressures and frequent travel.
Tips: Communicate openly about career demands and balance responsibilities.
Cecilie_Arcurs | Credit: Getty Images
Retail Workers
Divorce Rate: ~14%
Challenges: Irregular hours and lower income stability.
Tips: Focus on budgeting and shared financial planning.
Adobe Stock
Journalists and Media Professionals
Divorce Rate: ~14%
Challenges: Tight deadlines, unpredictable hours, and public scrutiny.
Tips: Build strong communication habits and establish work-life boundaries.
AleksandarGeorgiev | Credit: Getty Images
Entrepreneurs
Divorce Rate: ~13%
Challenges: Risk-taking, financial stress, and long hours during business building phases.
Tips: Involve your partner in business goals and share decision-making.
intelligenthq