5 Florida Cities Rank Among Places With the Highest Divorce Rate

Florida is renowned for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and retirement communities, yet it harbors cities with notably high divorce rates. According to the 2021 American Community Survey by the Census Bureau, Florida’s overall divorce rate stands at 3.0%, lower than the national average of 10.9%. Despite this, certain Florida cities exhibit significantly higher divorce rates than both the state and national averages. Here are five such cities, based on the percentage of their adult population (15 years old and over) that is divorced.

Starke

Starke, a small city in Bradford County with a population of 5,756, boasts the highest divorce rate in Florida at 13.0% among its adult population. This figure surpasses the national average by 10 points and the state average by 7 points. Notably, Starke is also one of the less affluent cities in Florida, with a median income of $42,976 and a poverty rate of 23.9%.

Lake City

As the county seat of Columbia County, Lake City, with a population of 12,307, holds the second-highest divorce rate in Florida at 11.0% among its adult population. This exceeds the national average by 8.1 points and the state average by 6.1 points. Additionally, Lake City is known for its elevated crime rates, including a violent crime rate of 1,151 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6,986 per 100,000 residents.

Palatka

Palatka, the county seat of Putnam County with a population of 10,387, ranks third in Florida for its divorce rate of 10.0% among its adult population. This surpasses the national average by 7.1 points and the state average by 5.1 points. Palatka is also one of Florida’s oldest cities, boasting a median age of 41.4 years.

DeFuniak Springs

DeFuniak Springs, situated in Walton County and home to 6,284 residents, holds the fourth-highest divorce rate in Florida at 10.0% among its adult population. This is 7.1 points above the national average and 5.1 points above the state average. Notably, DeFuniak Springs is recognized for its historic district featuring Victorian-style houses and a circular lake.

Orange Park

Orange Park, a town in Clay County with a population of 9,107, claims the fifth-highest divorce rate in Florida at 9.0% among its adult population. This surpasses the national average by 6.1 points and the state average by 4.1 points. Orange Park is additionally a suburb of Jacksonville, forming part of the Jacksonville metropolitan area.

Conclusion

While Florida’s sunny landscapes beckon travelers, it’s crucial to navigate with caution. The identified towns, grappling with crime and socio-economic challenges, underscore the importance of informed travel decisions. By staying vigilant and exploring safer alternatives, visitors can ensure a memorable and secure experience in the diverse landscapes of the Sunshine State.

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