“ONS data: 26% of opposite-sex divorces in England and Wales occur after 20+ years of marri” — what this page in the network covers. The Guardian Lifestyle Oct 18, 2026 • 1:29 PM The latest Office for National Statistics figures reveal a striking shift in divorce patterns for England and Wales. In 2025, 26% of opposite-sex divorces followed marriages lasting 20 years or more, overtaking the notorious "seven-year itch" as the most common timeframe for marital breakdown. The data challenges long-held assumptions about when couples are most vulnerable to separation.
Experts suggest longer life expectancy, financial entanglements, and the "empty nest" transition may contribute to late-stage divorces. The ONS statistics underscore that modern relationships face evolving pressures well beyond the early years. As societal norms continue to change, understanding these trends helps policymakers and support services better address the needs of long-married couples contemplating divorce. This listing links straight to the original page, where the content is available in full.