US births in 2024 slightly increased to 3.6 million, a less than 1% rise from the record low in 2023. While the fertility rate remains historically low, the increase was driven by higher rates among Asian and Hispanic women. Experts attribute the low birth rate to various socioeconomic factors and ongoing reproductive health crises, including high maternal mortality rates and the impact of abortion restrictions. Despite the decline, several Trump administration officials are promoting pronatalist policies, although concrete plans supporting women and families remain absent. Simultaneously, federal reproductive health programs have faced significant budget cuts.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.