Canada’s fertility rate hit a record low for the second consecutive year in 2023, according to Statistics Canada. The country reported a fertility rate of 1.26 children per woman, placing it among the nations with the lowest birth rates worldwide.
British Columbia had the lowest fertility rate in the country, with only one child per woman. As economic challenges continue to affect family planning, the data highlights significant changes in Canada’s demographic landscape.
Fertility Rate Drops to Record Low in 2023
In 2023, Canada recorded its lowest fertility rate for the second year in a row. The country’s rate was 1.26 children per woman, a historic low according to Statistics Canada. This placed Canada among nations with “lowest-low” fertility rates, alongside countries like South Korea and Japan. The birth rate reflects ongoing societal shifts and economic challenges.
British Columbia’s Fertility Rate Lowest Among Provinces
British Columbia recorded the lowest fertility rate among all provinces and territories in 2023. Women in the province averaged only one child, significantly below the national average. Economic factors, including housing costs, contributed to the decline. This rate underscores the growing trend of delayed or foregone parenthood.
Stable Birth Numbers Despite Falling Fertility Rates
Despite the lower fertility rate, Canada’s total number of births remained steady in 2023. Around 350,000 babies were born, similar to 2022’s figures. The decline in fertility is attributed to an increase in the population of women of childbearing age. However, this stable birth number does not mask the long-term trend of declining fertility.
International Comparison of Fertility Rates
Canada’s fertility rate now aligns with some of the lowest globally. Countries like South Korea, Spain, and Italy also report fertility rates of 1.3 children or fewer per woman. The U.S. reported a slightly higher rate of 1.62 in 2023. These figures indicate a broader global pattern of declining birth rates in developed nations.
Premature Birth Rate Reaches 50-Year High
In 2023, Canada experienced its highest premature birth rate in the past 50 years. According to Statistics Canada, 8.3% of births were premature. This rise is partially attributed to the growing number of older women giving birth. The risk of premature birth increases with maternal age, a trend increasingly seen across the country.
Older Mothers Becoming More Common
Statistics show that women are waiting longer to have children. In 2023, 26.5% of new mothers were 35 or older, a significant increase from 10.7% in 1993. The average age for giving birth in Canada rose to 31.7 years. This shift reflects broader societal changes in career focus and financial considerations.
Economic Factors Impact Family Planning
High costs of living, particularly in housing, have contributed to lower fertility rates. Many young Canadians feel financially unstable and delay having children as a result. British Columbia, with the highest housing costs, shows the most pronounced fertility decline. Economic concerns are central to decisions about family planning for many Canadians.
Freezing Eggs as a Growing Trend
As more women delay motherhood, fertility preservation techniques like egg freezing have become more popular. Clinics report an increasing number of women opting to freeze eggs in their 30s and 40s. This reflects a desire to have children later, once personal or financial conditions improve. The trend is driven by both societal changes and medical advancements.
Fertility Techniques Have Age Limits
Despite advances in fertility treatments, there are limits to what modern medicine can offer. Doctors warn that even advanced techniques cannot help women past a certain age. Women delaying childbirth may face challenges despite these treatments. There is a limited window in which natural fertility remains viable.
Provincial Variation in Fertility Rates
Ten of Canada’s thirteen provinces and territories recorded their lowest birth rates in 2023. This widespread decline mirrors global trends in fertility reduction. However, regional differences remain, with some provinces seeing slightly higher rates than others. Variations are often linked to economic factors and local conditions.
Canada Joins the “Lowest-Low” Fertility Group
With a fertility rate below 1.3, Canada has joined the “lowest-low” fertility countries. Other nations in this category include South Korea, Spain, and Japan. These countries face similar challenges, including economic pressures and shifting social priorities. The declining birth rate is a global phenomenon with long-term implications.
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