Canada’s fertility rate continues its long-term decline, falling to a record low of 1.25 children per woman in 2024, according to new data from Statistics Canada. This represents a 1.6% drop from 2023 and marks the first time the country’s fertility rate has fallen below 1.3 children per woman, placing Canada among nations with “ultra-low fertility”, including Switzerland, Luxembourg, Finland, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.

Decades of Decline

Canada’s fertility rate has been falling for decades, from a peak of nearly four children per woman in the late 1950s. Significant declines occurred during the “baby bust” of 1960–1975, influenced by expanded access to contraception and abortion, as well as economic challenges like the Great Depression and societal disruptions such as World War II. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary spike in births, but the long-term decline resumed.

The country crossed the “replacement fertility” threshold of 2.1 children per woman in 1972, meaning births alone can no longer sustain the population. Social demographers note that delayed parenthood, rising housing costs, and the pursuit of education and stable careers are key factors behind the continued drop. The average age of mothers in Canada has reached 31.8 years, up from 26.7 in 1976.

Global Fertility Trends

Canada is not alone. OECD countries have seen their fertility rates halved over the past 60 years, averaging 1.5 children per woman in 2024. A United Nations survey found that financial limitations, housing constraints, employment instability, and child-care challenges are the main reasons people have fewer children than intended. Climate change, economic uncertainty, and lingering effects of the pandemic further complicate family planning.

Solutions and Policy Recommendations

Experts stress that addressing declining fertility requires comprehensive support for families. Measures like affordable housing, parental leave, accessible child care, and policies supporting women’s careers can help people balance work and family life while encouraging parenthood. The OECD emphasizes that without such interventions, the long-term economic and social impacts of low fertility could be significant.

Summary for Blog/IG:
Canada’s fertility rate has hit a record low of 1.25 children per woman, joining countries like Japan and Italy in the “ultra-low fertility” category. Rising costs, career pressures, and delayed parenthood are driving the decline, while the average age of mothers now sits at 31.8 years. Experts say affordable housing, child care, and family-friendly policiesare key to supporting Canadians who want children.