Americas

Americas Overview

The Americas have experienced widespread declines in fertility and modest population growth in the past half century. The region consists of Northern America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.

The region’s total fertility rate is currently below replacement level at 1.9, ranging from 1.6 in Northern America to 2.1 in Central America and the Caribbean. A total fertility (TFR) rate of 2.1 is replacement level fertility, the average number of children a couple needs to have to replace themselves. Despite its low TFR, the region’s population is expected to increase 14% from 1.0 billion in 2021 to 1.2 billion in 2050, with increases ranging from 10% in the Caribbean to 18% in Central America. The Americas are also experiencing significant population aging, with a growing number and share of older adults. The current share of adults ages 65 and older is 12%, with shares ranging from 8% in Central America to 17% in Northern America.

In millions

Lifetime births per woman

Percent of all births to mothers ages 15-19

Age distribution by sub-region

Percent change in population

In millions

Lifetime births per woman

Percent of all births to mothers ages 15-19

Age distribution by sub-region

Percent change in population

In millions

Lifetime births per woman

Percent of all births to mothers ages 15-19

Age distribution by sub-region

Percent change in population

In millions

Lifetime births per woman

Percent of all births to mothers ages 15-19

Age distribution by sub-region

Percent change in population