US fertility rate hits historic new low as women delay pregnancy and have fewer child

NPR | By Brian Mann,

Steve Inskeep

Published April 10, 2026 at 4:44 AM EDT

Americans are having fewer babies than they used to. This fact, along with the decline in immigration, means big changes for families and society.

Brian Mann

Brian Mann is NPR's first national addiction correspondent. He also covers breaking news in the U.S. and around the world.

Steve Inskeep

Steve Inskeep is a host of NPR's Morning Edition, as well as NPR's morning news podcast Up First.

See stories by Steve Inskeep

SUSTAIN what matters. BUILD what’s next.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.