America's child population is shrinking everywhere but the South
Summary
From 2020 to 2025, the number of children under 18 in the U.S. dropped by 1.8 million in every region except the South, where child population increased. The South also saw overall population growth and is facing challenges like crowded schools and housing pressures.Key Facts
- The U.S. child population fell by 1.8 million between 2020 and 2025.
- The South is the only region where the under-18 population grew, adding about 304,000 children.
- The West saw the largest decline in children, down by over 1 million (5.7%).
- The South's total population grew 6%, nearly twice the national average of 3.1%.
- Growth in the South includes more children, adults in family-building years, and retirees.
- Most child population growth in the South happened in metro counties, while rural and small counties saw declines.
- The U.S. median age rose to 39.4 years in 2025, reflecting an aging population.
- People aged 65 and older increased by 16.2% nationally during this period.
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