The surge in young adults delaying or rejecting parenthood is triggering deep economic and social consequences worldwide.
At a Glance
- 39% of Gen Z Americans are delaying having children due to high living costs.
- U.S. fertility rate stands at a historic low of 1.62 births per woman.
- 84% of Gen Z and 71% of millennials cite cost of living as influencing family decisions.
- One in three Gen Zers and millennials say they don’t want children at all.
- Experts warn the trend could undermine workforce growth and economic stability.
Economic Pressures Cripple Family Plans
Recent polling finds that 39% of Gen Z Americans are postponing parenthood amid student debt, unaffordable housing, and inflation—factors driving them away from traditional family planning. As a result, the U.S. fertility rate has declined to 1.62 births per woman, far below the replacement threshold of 2.1.
In Australia, over half of those under 35 have delayed parenthood, with nearly half citing cost as the main obstacle, according to demographic data.
Watch a report: Why Gen Z Is Saying ‘Nah’ to Parenthood
Cultural Shifts and Value Realignment
Surveys indicate up to one in three Millennials and Gen Z adults are opting out of parenthood entirely, prioritizing autonomy, career, leisure, and climate concerns over having children.
Digital culture may also be reinforcing this shift. Declining relationship formation linked to screen use, social media, and digital dating is contributing to the erosion of family planning norms, experts say.
Far‑Reaching Consequences
Demographers warn that persistently low birth rates will strain labor markets, challenge pension systems, and burden healthcare networks. While birth rates among U.S. women in their 40s rose slightly in 2024, the increase is not enough to reverse the broader generational trend.
Efforts to incentivize childbirth—ranging from tax credits to subsidized childcare—may fall short if they fail to address the underlying economic insecurity and evolving personal values that define Gen Z’s worldview.
This fertility collapse among younger generations signals a major shift in societal values and demographics that could profoundly impact the economic and cultural landscape for decades.
