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NewsKPBS Public MediaOctober 24, 2026San Diego County

U.S. general fertility rate drops to a record low in 2025 while birth rates for older women increase

Photo: KPBS Public Media

The U.S. general fertility rate fell by 1% to a new record low in 2025, driven largely by significant declines among women in their teens and twenties. Conversely, birth rates saw a small increase among women aged 30 to 45, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Why It Matters

The falling birth rate is contributing to a steadily shrinking U.S. population under age 18, a rising median age of 39.4 years old, and actual population decline in several states.

Key Facts

  • The general fertility rate for women in the U.S. fell by 1% to a new record low in 2025.
  • The birthrate for women age 20 to 24 declined by 6% in a single year.
  • Women in their late teens saw a 7% decline in birth rates.
  • A Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta study found Gen Z women in their late teens and twenties are dramatically less likely to want children compared to previous generations.
  • Data shows a small but significant increase in older women, ages 30 to 45, choosing to become pregnant.
  • The U.S. population under age 18 dropped by more than 1 million people from 2010 to 2020.
  • The median age in the U.S. reached 39.4 years old in 2025.
  • Several states, including Vermont, are experiencing actual population decline.

Who's Mentioned

otherInconceivable“A book on parenting choices.”OrganizationTemple Health“Health, research and training network in Philadelphia.”OrganizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal agency that released the latest fertility report.”locationVermont“State where Sarah Harris lives.”PersonSarah Harris“Mother from Vermont interviewed regarding parenting choices.”PersonDr. Tanise Branche“Medical director of labor and delivery at Temple Health.”OrganizationAnna Louie Sussman“Author of the book Inconceivable.”PersonBrady Hamilton“Demographer at the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics.”OrganizationFederal Reserve Bank of Atlanta“Released a study regarding Gen Z women and the desire for children.”locationPhiladelphia“City where Temple Health is located.”OrganizationU.S. Census Bureau“Reported on the falling population under age 18 and state population declines.”OrganizationNational Center for Health Statistics“CDC center that co-authored the report.”PersonBridget“Daughter of Sarah Harris.”