What is the replacement fertility rate?

The replacement rate is about 2.1 children per woman — the level needed to maintain population size without migration.

Which country has the lowest fertility rate?

South Korea has the world's lowest fertility rate at approximately 0.7 children per woman.

Why are fertility rates declining globally?

Key factors include increased female education, urbanization, higher costs of raising children, better access to contraception, and shifting cultural priorities.

Global Average Fertility Rate (TFR)

Last updated: January 23, 2026

2.3

children/woman

The global average total fertility rate (TFR) is approximately 2.3 children per woman, just above the replacement level of 2.1.

Historical Trend

Source: World Bank

Global Average Fertility Rate (TFR) by Country

Country	Value (children/woman) ↓	Source
Niger	6.7	World Bank
Nigeria	5.1	World Bank
India	2	World Bank
France	1.8	INSEE
United States	1.7	CDC
Germany	1.4	Destatis
Japan	1.2	MHLW
South Korea	0.7	KOSIS

Why This Average Exists

The fertility rate is the primary driver of population growth and is closely watched by demographers, policymakers, and economists.

Factors That Affect Global Average Fertility Rate (TFR)

Female education levels
Contraception access
Child mortality rates
Urbanization
Cultural and religious norms
Economic development

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.