In recent years, global fertility rates have steadily decreased, especially in developed nations where socioeconomic factors, lifestyle choices, and government policies have influenced family planning and birth rates. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 countries with the lowest fertility rates in 2024 and explore some of the key reasons behind these trends.
Top 10 Countries with the Lowest Fertility Rates in 2024
1. Taiwan: 1.1 Children per Woman
Taiwan consistently reports the lowest fertility rate globally, with an average of just 1.1 children per woman in 2024. Economic pressures, including the high cost of living and housing, discourage many young couples from having children. Additionally, a significant gender gap and limited work-life balance options make it challenging for working parents to raise larger families.
2. South Korea: 1.12 Children per Woman
South Korea follows closely with a fertility rate of 1.12. Despite government incentives, such as financial support for families and programs to address childcare, cultural norms around work and long hours remain a barrier. Many young people are also postponing or opting out of marriage, which directly affects the birth rate.
3. Singapore: 1.17 Children per Woman
Singapore’s fertility rate remains low at 1.17, as urban lifestyles and high costs lead many citizens to prioritize career over family. While Singapore offers financial support for parents, many young professionals still view raising children as an expensive commitment.
4. Ukraine: 1.22 Children per Woman
With a fertility rate of 1.22, Ukraine ranks among the lowest in Europe. Political and economic instability play significant roles here, as many families delay or forego having children due to financial insecurity. Additionally, urban migration and emigration have impacted population growth in recent years.
5. Hong Kong SAR: 1.24 Children per Woman
In Hong Kong, the fertility rate of 1.24 is largely influenced by the high cost of housing and limited living space. Many couples find it difficult to imagine raising children in such an expensive and densely populated city. Although government initiatives aim to make family life more appealing, economic constraints often discourage family expansion.
6. Macau SAR: 1.24 Children per Woman
Similar to Hong Kong, Macau faces challenges like high living costs, which result in a fertility rate of 1.24. Macau’s intense work culture and housing limitations create a climate where starting or expanding a family may not seem viable to many residents.
7. Moldova: 1.26 Children per Woman
In Moldova, a fertility rate of 1.26 reflects a mix of economic struggles and an aging population. As young people migrate abroad for better job prospects, the remaining population faces lower birth rates. Moldova’s fertility rate continues to reflect this challenging demographic trend.
8. Puerto Rico (U.S.): 1.26 Children per Woman
Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, also reports a low fertility rate of 1.26. Economic difficulties, coupled with significant out-migration, have led to a shrinking population. Many young Puerto Ricans move to the U.S. mainland, where they often delay starting families due to job uncertainties and financial pressures.
9. Italy: 1.26 Children per Woman
Italy’s fertility rate has been among the lowest in Europe for years, now at 1.26. Factors contributing to this include high youth unemployment and limited support for working mothers. While Italian culture traditionally values family, economic realities are forcing many to reconsider or delay parenthood.
10. Spain: 1.3 Children per Woman
Spain rounds out the list with a fertility rate of 1.3, which is still below the replacement level. High living costs, along with a youth unemployment rate among the highest in Europe, discourage many from starting families. Although Spain has introduced policies to support family life, they have yet to reverse this trend significantly.
What Low Fertility Rates Mean for the Future
As we can see, economic pressures, housing issues, work-life balance, and social expectations play significant roles in these low fertility rates. When fertility rates drop below the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman, countries face future challenges, such as an aging population, labor shortages, and strain on social welfare systems.
In response, many governments are now focusing on creating policies to encourage families to have more children. Efforts range from financial support to family-friendly workplaces, but the impact of these policies remains to be seen.