U.S. Birth Rates Hit Record Low, Immigration Prevents Population Decline amid Cost Concerns

New statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that U.S. Birth rates have reached an historic low, with approximately 76,000 fewer babies born in 2023 than the previous year. This marks the lowest annual birth count since 1979, as only around 3.59 million infants were delivered last year compared to 3.66 million in 2022. Sociology expert Nicholas Mark points out that despite this downward trend, high levels of immigration suggest a population decline is not imminent for the United States. The fall in birth rates predates COVID-19; however, while newborns rose during the pandemic period, numbers have once again started to decrease. One possible factor contributing towards decreasing figures could be exorbitant costs of living causing hesitance among prospective parents. A recent survey by Nerd Wallet found that only 27% of non-parents aged under sixty planned on having children due to financial concerns, while others cited the high cost as a deterrent for starting families. Birth rates are falling drastically in teens and young women; however, it seems women aged between thirty and forty have become increasingly inclined towards putting off parenthood until they can prioritize their education or careers first. The CDC’s data is based on more than 99% of birth certificates from the previous year. These figures may be subject to minor changes as all records are reviewed in full.