Divorce Cost Calculator
Wondering what your divorce will cost? This free calculator estimates your total divorce cost based on your state, the type of divorce, and your situation. It uses 2026 court filing fees for all 50 states plus national averages for attorney fees, mediation, and common add-ons like child custody and property division.
Answer three quick questions below for an instant estimate with a full cost breakdown.
Divorce Cost Calculator
Answer a few questions to estimate what your divorce may cost in your state.
Your estimated divorce cost
Estimates based on national averages, state filing fees and attorney rate data. Actual costs vary by case complexity and local rates. This is an estimate, not legal advice.
How Accurate Is This Calculator?
This calculator uses real 2026 data: actual court filing fees for every US state, published attorney hourly rate surveys, and mediation cost averages. It gives a planning estimate, not a quote. Your real cost depends on your lawyer’s rates, your county, and how contested your case becomes.
What Is Included in the Estimate?
- Court filing fees: the exact 2026 fee for the state you select, from $70 (Wyoming) to $435 (California).
- Attorney fees: estimated from national hourly rate averages ($250–$350/hr), adjusted by a state cost multiplier.
- Child custody: adds $3,000–$8,000 for evaluations and extra legal work when children are involved.
- Property division: adds $2,000–$10,000 for appraisals, valuations, and complex asset splits.
- Alimony disputes: adds $2,000–$5,000 when spousal support is contested.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get divorced?
An uncontested DIY divorce is cheapest, typically $500–$1,500 total including the filing fee. Both spouses must agree on everything: property, custody, and support.
Why do divorce costs vary so much by state?
Three reasons: filing fees differ ($70–$435), attorney hourly rates track local cost of living, and some states have mandatory waiting periods or counseling that add steps. Select your state above for localized numbers.
Does having children really double the cost?
Often, yes. Custody evaluations, parenting classes, and child support calculations add $3,000–$8,000 on average, and contested custody is the single most expensive part of many divorces.
Read our full guide: How Much Does a Divorce Cost in 2026?