Summary
A new study suggests that rising housing costs are a significant factor behind the decline in birth rates in the United States between the 2000s and 2010s. The research found that increased housing expenses accounted for more than half of the drop in fertility rates during this period. The study highlights concerns about an aging society and the potential impact on the labor force.
Key Facts
- The study was conducted by Benjamin K. Couillard, a doctoral candidate in economics.
- Rising housing costs since 1990 are linked to 51% of the decline in total fertility rates between the 2000s and 2010s.
- The U.S. fertility rate is projected to average 1.6 births per woman over the next 30 years, below the replacement rate of 2.1.
- Between 1990 and 2020, U.S. rents increased by 149%, more than the inflation rate of 103% over the same period.
- Couillard's research involved data from the U.S. Census Bureau and simulations to examine housing and fertility trends.
- High housing costs reduce fertility by making child-rearing more expensive and less feasible.
- The study suggests that increasing the supply of family-suitable housing might help address demographic challenges.
