Data from the UK’s divorce rates indicate that we’ve got the highest divorce rates in the EU (2.8 divorces for every 1,000 marriages in 2008). There are numerous reasons why couples decide to end their marriage: infidelity, intrusive in-laws, differences in communication, conflict, and financial strain.

This may sound like a lot of couples are divorcing, but research found that 87% of couples stated they were in happy relationships and hardly argued. So, what is it that is contributing to happiness in a marriage? Location, location, location. Census data across the country can provide interesting insight into the differences between people living in different regions across the country. In this article, we explore the areas throughout the UK with the largest number of divorces, analysing the reasons why marriages have succeeded and failed. 

Worst: Blackpool

Love the seaside? You’ll be surprised to know that coastal towns have the highest rates of divorce in comparison to inland towns. Blackpool has been named as the divorce capital of the country, with divorce rates at 13.1%. Although there’s no official explanation for why these rates are so much higher than the rest of the country, there are stress-inducing situations that can be linked to the cause and effect of divorce, resulting in partners introducing family solicitors. 

Back in 2019, Blackpool was ranked the most deprived area in England. BBC questioned residents in Blackpool, with many blaming high divorce rates on difficult economic conditions placing immense pressure on families who are struggling to meet living costs.

Do coastal towns thrive in the summer and become deathly boring in the winter? This region has also been met with some of the highest rates of long-term illness and poor physical and mental health, with anxiety and depression levels exceeding the national average by almost double.

Second from Worst: Hastings

With a divorce rate of 12.8%, Hastings has the second highest divorce rates in the UK. Hastings is a popular coastal town with pretty pastel coloured Victorian-style houses by the sea — so why are couples getting divorced at high rates in a quaint, scenic town?

Coincidentally, Hastings is ranked 13th for the most deprived areas in Britain. This reiterates the possibility that financial strain is a leading factor in why couples get divorced. Salaries in Hastings are 24% less than the South West average, with 26% living in poverty. NHS statistics have also reported that 30% of locals reported feeling lonely in this area, suggesting that boredom and lack of social activities in coastal towns can have dramatic impacts on marital happiness.

Best: Harrow

As Harrow was rated the lowest for divorce at 5.4%, Harrow is arguably one of the best places for married couples to live. Of course, people still stay together in unhappy marriages for a variety of reasons, but low divorce rates suggest an environment that is less likely to put strain on a marriage.

The average income in Harrow met Britain’s average of £37,000 last year. Harrow is ranked the lowest region in the UK for depression and anxiety prevalence at 9%. Although money isn’t a measure of mental health, it can contribute to marriage failure as noted previously. 

Second From Best: Tower Hamlets

Situated in the centre of London, Tower Hamlets’ divorce rate is second from last at 5.6%, with less people seeking Divorce law in London, following closely behind Harrow. Like Harrow, the average salary met the UK average, allowing households to keep up with living costs. Are 

There are many factors that lead to divorce, however it seems that economic environment is important for marriages to sustain.