In 2024, the U.S. fertility rate dropped to an all-time low of 1.599 children per woman, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This figure falls well below the “replacement rate” of 2.1: the number of births needed to sustain a population over time without migration.

While headlines may suggest this is cause for alarm, experts like Leslie Root, a fertility and population policy researcher at the University of Colorado Boulder, said in a recent NBC article that this trend reflects a shift in when and how Americans are choosing to grow their families, rather than a complete rejection of parenthood.

So what’s behind this continued dip in birth rates, and what does it mean for those navigating their own fertility journeys?

A Shift in Timing, Not Desire

One of the biggest drivers of this downward trend is delayed parenthood. More people are waiting until their 30s or 40s to have children.

According to World Bank data, the U.S. fertility rate is now on par with several Western European countries, many of which also reflect the modern trend of later-in-life parenting.

There are many reasons why someone might wait:

• Building a career or pursuing education
• Wanting financial stability
• Seeking the right partner or choosing single parenthood
• Medical issues that delay or complicate conception

As people wait, some may experience increased challenges with fertility. Age is one of the most significant factors impacting egg quantity and quality. That’s why services like egg freezing and donor sperm are becoming an important part of the conversation for individuals and couples planning.

At Fairfax, we support a wide variety of family-building journeys, including those who are starting later in life or navigating medical complexities. Explore our resource center to view various information for all kinds of family-building journeys.

Economic and Social Pressures

Beyond biology, there are broader societal forces influencing birth rates.

According to Dr. Karen Guzzo of the Carolina Population Center in the same NBC article, many people cite rising costs of living, lack of affordable housing, limited access to child care, and gaps in health insurance coverage as reasons to delay or forego having children.

In fact Pew Research Center found that a growing number of Americans, especially younger generations, are unsure if they’ll have kids at all, not due to lack of interest, but because of financial or logistical concerns.

Medical Advancements and Access to Care

At the same time, access to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and donor gametes has expanded over the past two decades. However, these options are not always universally affordable or accessible.

That’s why having trusted reproductive partners is so important. Whether you’re a single parent by choice, a same-sex couple, or navigating male-factor infertility, you deserve support that’s inclusive and empowering. Fairfax Cryobank also works with various partners with financing options for this journey.

At our cryobank, we rigorously screen our donors to provide high-quality donor sperm in addition to resources and guidance for every stage of your family-building journey. Explore your options with us.

What This Means for Intended Parents

So, what does the national fertility rate have to do with your personal path to parenthood?

For starters, it highlights that you’re not alone. Many people, across all backgrounds, are reassessing what family looks like, and when or how to grow it.

It also underscores the importance of being proactive about reproductive planning. If you know you want children someday but aren’t quite ready now, you might consider fertility preservation options like egg freezing. If you’re already trying and not seeing success, a consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist can offer clarity.

And if you’re exploring third-party reproduction, including the use of donor sperm, you’re part of a growing and supported community. The rise in fertility services doesn’t just reflect challenges; it reflects innovation, inclusivity, and choice.

Looking Ahead: Redefining Parenthood on Your Terms

While the U.S. birth rate may be falling, it doesn’t mean family-building is going out of style. It’s evolving. More people are choosing to become parents in new ways, whether through fertility preservation, donor conception, surrogacy, or adoption.

Each path is valid. Each journey deserves support.

Our team is proud to play a small part in your family’s story. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or actively searching for a donor, we’re here to help you take the next step with confidence and care.

Final Thoughts

The historic drop in fertility rates is a reflection of broader societal change, not failure. People are still becoming parents just on timelines and terms that better reflect their lives and values. With greater access to reproductive technologies and inclusive support, there are more pathways than ever to build a family.

If you’re ready to begin or continue your journey, reach out to our expert team. We’re honored to help you write your next chapter.