Fertility Rate Drops to New Record Low: CDC

The CDC reports that the U.S. general fertility rate declined 1% in 2025 to 53.1 births per 1,000 females ages 15–44, marking another record low and a continued long-term downward trend since 2007.

Teen birth rates fell sharply, including a 7% decline among ages 15–19. The total fertility rate remains below replacement level, and increasing proportions of adults report delaying or forgoing parenthood.

Census data show rising childlessness among women ages 25–29. Public health analysts note that financial pressures, including housing and childcare costs, are frequently cited barriers shaping reproductive decisions. Read more from The Hill here.