The Population Connection recently conducted a survey regarding
family size. The results from the survey are summarized in the article
titled: Americans Want Small Families, Aren’t Concerned About
Declining Birth Rates. Population Connection. Written by Olivia
Nater, Communications Manager | Published: June 16, 2025.
Website is: Americans Want Small Families, Aren’t Concerned About Declining Birth
Rates
The following provides introductory comments for the survey. These
comments are very relevant in relationship to Utah’s lower fertility
rates.
An extensive new survey by Population Connection reveals that
Americans have an established preference for small family sizes
and do not perceive low fertility rates as a problem. Our survey
also sheds light on the factors that influence the childbearing
decisions of younger Americans — the top impacts being concern
over the state of the world and affordability.
The context
The population narrative in today’s media stories revolves
predominantly around low fertility rates in high-income countries, with
many outlets describing this as a problem or “crisis.” This narrative is
grounded in concern that population aging and decline could negatively
impact economies, and ignores the countless benefits of reduced
population pressure. It also fails to acknowledge the fact that our global
population is still growing, and that even many high-income countries
with low birth rates are still becoming more populous due to a
combination of demographic momentum and immigration.