U.S. Fertility Rate Declines to Record Low

**Why it matters:** As a state with a relatively young population and reliance on population growth to support its economy and infrastructure, Alaska may face unique challenges related to workforce development and resource allocation if the national trend continues.

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Washington, D.C. – Recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the fertility rate in the United States has reached its lowest point on record. This decline is part of a continuing trend that began in 2007, according to researchers.

Since 2007, the number of births in the U.S. has decreased by approximately 23%. This puts the current fertility rate below the replacement level. The replacement level is the number of births needed to maintain the current population size, accounting for deaths. A fertility rate below replacement level suggests that, without immigration, the population will eventually decline. Brian Mann, of NPR, previously discussed the situation.