Study Shows Number of Childless Women in the U.S. Continues to Rise

September 15, 2025
DURHAM, N.H.—Research from the University of New Hampshire reports that in 2024 there were 5.7 million more childless women of prime child-bearing age than expected given prior patterns—a significant jump from 2.1 million in 2016 and 4.7 million in 2022. This shift in fertility patterns has contributed to 11.8 million fewer births than expected in the past 17 years. “Childless rates increased the most among women under 30, where fertility rate declines were also greatest,” said Kenneth Johnson... - Read Full Article

Search the UNH Newsroom

08/21/25 - Walkable Communities Lowered Mental Health Stressors During COVID-19 Pandemic
08/12/25 - UNH Recognized as Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
media relations logo
08/05/25 - University of New Hampshire and VLACS Expand Access to Early College Courses
media relations logo
06/25/25 - UNH’s Sustainability Institute Receives Grant to Help New England Cities and Towns Achieve Sustainability Goals
06/16/25 - University of New Hampshire Dean's List
media relations logo
06/06/25 - Study Shows Corals Can't Escape Warming Water But Urgent Action Could Protect Them
05/15/25 - New Survey Reveals NH Businesses Lagging in Lactation Support Ahead of 2025 Law
05/14/25 - UNH Donates Locally Grown Fish to Gather Food Pantry to Help Feed Seacoast
Close up of a lawn that hasn't been mowed in a long time
05/14/25 - Lazy Lawn Mowers Rejoice, Mowing Less May Be a Good Thing
05/06/25 - Shoals Marine Laboratory Offers Mom a Memorable Island Garden Adventure
Two researchers in winter gear work on a snowy mountain
04/15/25 - Ten Ways UNH is Helping Communities be Environmentally Friendly
media relations logo
03/27/25 - Research Finds Rural Americans Carry Heavy Burden Accessing Social Security Benefits and Information

Tweets by @UNHNews