Coastal Breakups and Silver Splitters: Divorce Trends Reshaping the UK

 
11/06/2025
3 min read

Divorce in the UK isn’t just about courtrooms and paperwork anymore — it’s becoming a window into deeper social, economic, and generational shifts. The latest data from 2024 and early 2025 reveals that while the how of divorce has changed thanks to legal reform, the who and where are reshaping the national story in unexpected ways.

Two groups stand out in this evolving landscape: residents of coastal towns, and older couples now known as “Silver Splitters.” Together, they highlight the new face of separation in Britain.

Coastal Towns: The Divorce Capitals of England

According to recent figures from the ONS and Census data, 90% of the UK’s top 10 areas with the highest number of divorced individuals are coastal towns. Topping the list:

  • Norwich – 12.8% of residents are divorced
     
  • Hastings – 12.1%
     
  • Blackpool – 12.1%
     
  • Lincoln – 11.9%
     

So why are these seaside locations emerging as divorce hotspots?

Possible Factors:

  • Fresh Starts: Coastal towns often attract individuals looking for a new chapter post-divorce.
     
  • Lower Living Costs: Housing is generally more affordable, which matters when splitting assets or downsizing.
     
  • Demographics: Many coastal towns have older populations and higher deprivation levels, both statistically linked to increased divorce rates.
     

Whether it’s the lure of a peaceful seaside life or the practicality of more affordable living, the coast is becoming a common destination for those rebuilding after a breakup.

The Rise of the Silver Splitters

Another group contributing to the reshaping of divorce in the UK? The over-60s. Known in family law circles as “Silver Splitters,” this demographic is seeing the fastest rise in divorce rates.

Key Stats:

  • Divorce among those aged 60+ has increased by over 23% in the last decade.
     
  • Many of these divorces happen after decades of marriage.
     
  • The trend reflects growing independence, longevity, and shifting relationship expectations.
     

Why now?

  • Longer lifespans: People are living well into their 80s and 90s — and reassessing long-term happiness in their 60s.
     
  • Financial security: Many older adults, especially women, are more financially independent than in previous generations.
     
  • Changing attitudes: There’s less stigma around divorce and more emphasis on personal fulfilment — at any age.
     

These divorces often involve different challenges than younger splits: adult children, pension division, and long-standing property arrangements.

How No-Fault Divorce Makes Both Trends Easier to Navigate

Introduced in April 2022, the no-fault divorce law removed the need for blame — making the process less emotionally charged and more accessible.

Benefits for Coastal Movers & Silver Splitters:

  • Simplified process: No need to prove wrongdoing.
     
  • Joint applications: Particularly appealing for amicable older couples.
     
  • Less court time: More room for mediation and one-lawyer models.
     

And it’s working. Data from early 2024 shows:

  • A drop in new applications (possibly due to earlier peaks post-reform),
     
  • But a rise in completed divorces, meaning cases are being resolved more efficiently.

Regional Divorce Curiosity: Who’s Googling Divorce the Most?

Interestingly, Google search trends mirror these regional divorce patterns. In 2024, the top regions for “divorce” searches per 1,000 people were:

  • East of England – 30%
     
  • East Midlands – 25%
     
  • South West – 24%
     
  • South East – 22%
     

The counties leading the charge included:

  • Essex (50%)
     
  • Lincolnshire, East Riding, Kent, Norfolk – all near or above 30%
     

These areas, many of them coastal or semi-rural, are reflecting a broader national shift — one driven by age, place, and access to better options for separation.

What These Trends Mean for the Future of Divorce

As more divorces happen later in life and outside major cities, the traditional assumptions about who gets divorced — and why — are fading fast. The rise of cohabiting couples, growing demand for fairer financial settlements, and increased mental health awareness are all reshaping the conversation.

What to expect:

  • More community-based legal support in regional areas.
     
  • Pension-conscious settlements and estate planning.
     
  • A possible push for reform in cohabitation rights, as more splits happen outside of marriage.

Facing Divorce in 2025? You’re Not Alone

Whether you're retiring by the sea or reassessing your path in your 60s, divorce today is more flexible and less combative than ever. But navigating the legal, emotional, and financial changes still requires expert help.

Need guidance?

Visit Parachute Law Divorce Solicitors for fixed-fee legal support, co-parenting plans, pension advice, and more. We make the process clear, calm, and client-led — so you can focus on what’s next.