Summary
Utah, historically known for having a high birth rate compared to the national average, has seen its birth rate decline significantly, aligning more closely with the rest of the United States since 2010. This trend reflects a broader reduction in birth rates across the country, attributed to cultural and economic factors.
Key Facts
- Utah was known for having a higher birth rate than the national average, but this difference has decreased since 2010.
- In 1980, women in Utah had 1.3 more children on average than women in the rest of the U.S.; in 2023, the difference narrowed to 0.2 children.
- The U.S. fertility rate is projected to average 1.6 births per woman over the next 30 years, below the replacement level of 2.1 needed to sustain the population without immigration.
- The decline in birth rates is attributed to cultural shifts and financial challenges, such as the aftermath of the 2008 economic crash.
- Utah's higher fertility rates are partly due to religious factors, as many residents belong to the Latter-day Saints church, which promotes family growth.
- Nationwide, religious individuals, particularly those attending services weekly, tend to have higher fertility rates than less religious individuals.
- Utah's fertility rate has decreased by 45.5% over the last 50 years, more than the national decline of 36%.
