Births in France fall again in September

In September 2026, 52,405 births were recorded in France, representing a 2.1% decrease compared to September 2025. This continues a long-term trend of declining birth rates that has been in place for more than 15 years.

Average daily births drop

According to the latest report published on October 29 by the Insee, this brings the average number of births per day to 1,747. The year 2026 continues a trend of declining birth rates that has been ongoing for over a decade and a half. The month of August 2026 had already seen a 1.6% decrease in the number of births compared to 2025.

Financial pressures cited for declining birth rates

A recent study by the National Union of Family Associations (Unaf) highlighted that 67% of parents surveyed believed they did not have sufficient resources to welcome an additional child. These findings point to financial constraints as a significant factor in the decline, with many French people facing challenges such as high housing costs, the cost of living, professional uncertainties, and difficulties in balancing family and professional life.

Continuing decline in birth numbers

In 2025, 643,905 babies were born in France, representing a 2.3% decrease compared to 2024. The number of births was 24% lower than that recorded in 2010, according to the Insee. From January to September 2026, 478,277 children were born in France, compared to 483,810 during the same period in 2025, representing a decrease of 1.1%.

Pope urges young people to start families

During his visit to Metz, Pope Leo XIV encouraged young people not to be afraid of starting a family and having children. He said, "Love life at every moment, and do not be afraid of the future! Do not be afraid of starting a family, of having children!" Last June, he had mentioned the need for a "new spring for the family" in the face of aging populations.