U.S. Fertility Rate Hits Record Low Amidst Continued Population Growth
U.S. fertility rate drops to record low, under 1.6 children per woman, below replacement levels, despite a 1% increase in births.
Overview
The U.S. fertility rate in 2024 plummeted to a new low of fewer than 1.6 children per woman, falling significantly below the 2.1 replacement level needed for population stability.
This decline places the U.S. fertility rate on par with those observed in many Western European countries, according to data from the CDC and World Bank.
Key factors contributing to the reduced birth rates include individuals marrying later in life and increasing concerns about the financial stability required to raise children.
In response to the declining rates, the Trump administration implemented measures, including an executive order to enhance access to and lower the costs of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Despite the record-low fertility rate, the U.S. population continues to grow, with a reported 1% increase in total births last year, adding approximately 33,000 more newborns.