How have US fertility and birth rates changed over time?
Fertility rates in the US have declined by more than half over the past century and reached their lowest level ever in 2024.
The US fertility rate has declined by more than half over the last century. In 1924, there were 110.9 births per 1,000 women, compared with a fertility rate of 53.8 in 2024, a decrease of 51.5%.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines the general fertility rate as the number of live births per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44.
The US fertility rate reached an all-time low in 2024.
Births per 1,000 women ages 15–44, 1909–2024
How have birth rates changed by maternal age?
Many American women are having children later in life. In 2004, the birth rate was highest for women ages 25–29 (116.5 births per 1,000 women). In 2024, women ages 30–34 took the lead with 93.7 births per 1,000 women.
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From 2004 to 2024, birth rates dropped for women ages 34 and younger and increased among those 35 and up.
Fertility rates for women ages 40–44 have increased 42% since 2004.
Births per 1,000 women ages 15–44, by age group, 2004 and 2024
How do fertility rates vary by state?
In 2024, fertility rates were highest in South Dakota (66.7 births per 1,000 women), Nebraska (62.9), and Alaska (60.8).
Among states, fertility rates were lowest in Vermont (41.6), Rhode Island (45.0), and New Hampshire (45.9).
Among states, South Dakota has the highest fertility rate and Vermont the lowest.
Births per 1,000 women ages 15–44, by state, 2024
How have fertility rates changed by state over time?
Fertility rates dropped in all states between 2004 and 2024.
The states with the biggest drops were:
- Utah (-35.2%)
- Arizona (-34.0%)
- Nevada (-30.8%)
In Utah, the 2004 fertility rate was 92.5 births per 1,000 women; in 2024, it dropped to 59.9.
The states with the most stable fertility rates were:
- West Virginia (-7.6%)
- Kentucky (-5.9%)
- North Dakota (-3.7%)
In North Dakota, the fertility rate dropped from 62.7 births to 60.3.
Fertility rates decreased in all states between 2004 and 2024.
Percent change in births per 1,000 women ages 15–44, by state
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