Divorce Tourism of the Past
Nov 24 2025 15:00
In the midst of the Great Depression, Nevada became a refuge for those seeking a quick divorce. With the passing of legislation in 1931, the state reduced residency requirements for divorce to just six weeks, while adding nine grounds for fault-based divorce. This change set the stage for the rise of 'divorce ranches.'
The Birth of Divorce Tourism
The allure of Nevada’s liberal divorce laws attracted many to what was known as 'divorce tourism.' Individuals could live temporarily in Nevada, fulfill the residency requirements, and enjoy activities such as horseback riding, swimming, and fishing at ranches that resembled resorts.
The Impact of Ronald Reagan's No-Fault Divorce Bill
The era of divorce ranches waned when California Governor Ronald Reagan signed the first no-fault divorce law into effect in the 1970s, a change that other states soon followed. This pivotal moment marked the decline of Nevada's unique divorce industry.
Nevada's short-lived but fascinating engagement with divorce tourism highlights a significant cultural and legal shift in American society during the early 20th century. It remains a unique chapter in the history of both law and leisure.