Canada Fertility Rate Hits All-Time Low of 1.26

Statistics Canada reported that the national fertility rate remained at an all-time low of 1.26 children per woman in 2025, showing virtually no change from 2024. The data reveals a trend of women having children at a later age, with the average age of mothers reaching a record high of 31.9 years.

While the total number of births increased by 1.6% in 2025, the agency noted this growth resulted from a larger population of women in the reproductive age group rather than an increase in fertility. Sociology professor Kate Choi attributed the decline to social barriers, including housing unaffordability, economic uncertainty, and a lack of work-life balance. Choi stated, "It's not biological infertility, but it's the social circumstances that are preventing them from having children."

Other findings in the report indicate that home births have returned to pre-pandemic levels, representing just under 2% of all births. The agency also identified Noah and Charlotte as the most popular baby names for boys and girls, respectively, for the year.