Global Average Birth Rate
Last updated: January 23, 2026
17.5
per 1,000
The global average birth rate is approximately 17.5 live births per 1,000 people per year. This has declined from about 36 per 1,000 in 1960.
Historical Trend
Source: World Bank
Why This Average Exists
Birth rate is a fundamental demographic indicator that directly impacts population growth, age structure, and future workforce size.
Factors That Affect Global Average Birth Rate
- Fertility rate
- Contraception availability
- Marriage age
- Economic conditions
- Government family policies
- Cultural preferences
Frequently Asked Questions
Methodology & Data Sources
The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.
Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.
All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.
Further Reading
- Global Average Fertility Rate (TFR)— 2.3 children/woman
- Global Average Death Rate— 7.7 per 1,000
- Global Average Population Growth— 0.83% %/year
- Global Average Age— 30.5 years years
- Global Average Population Density— 60/km² people/km²
- Global Average Age of Consent— 16 years years
- Global Average Urbanization Rate— 57% %
- Global Average Net Migration Rate— 0.0 per 1,000