cover of episode Americans Are Having Fewer Babies Than Ever. What Can Be Done About It?

Americans Are Having Fewer Babies Than Ever. What Can Be Done About It?

2024/10/13
logo of podcast WSJ What’s News

WSJ What’s News

Chapters

The U.S. fertility rate has dropped to a historic low, mirroring a global trend. This decline is attributed to various social and economic factors, including the increasing cost and time commitment of raising children, alongside changing family priorities.
  • U.S. fertility rate at a historic low of 1.62, below the replacement rate of 2.1.
  • Global decline in fertility rates across all income levels.
  • Reasons include cost, time commitment, and changing priorities.

Shownotes Transcript

This spring the U.S. fertility rate dropped to another historic low. And a potential American baby bust has become a campaign issue. WSJ Chief Economics Commentator Greg Ip) answers your questions on the causes and consequences of the falling fertility rate in the U.S. And reporter Liz Whyte) explains what policies the presidential candidates are proposing and how they may—or may not—make an impact. Charlotte Gartenberg hosts. 

 

Further Reading

How America’s Baby Bust Became an Election Issue

Why Tech Elites Want Us All to Have More Kids

More Cash for Kids Is Popular. It Might Not Be Wise.

Suddenly There Aren’t Enough Babies. The Whole World Is Alarmed.

Why JD Vance Worries About Childlessness

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices)