Decline in birth rates in Baden-Württemberg: Numbers of children are causing concern!

Decline in birth rates in Baden-Württemberg: Numbers of children are causing concern!

A look at the current birth figures shows a worrying development in Baden-Württemberg. Only around 97,500 children were born in 2024. That is around 900 fewer than in the previous year, 2023. The birth rate is therefore languishing at 1.39 children per woman and remains below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, which was last achieved in 1970. These figures have been extensively reviewed by bo.de analyzed, and it is the second year in a row in which the number of newborns is below the magic limit of 100,000.

The differences are regionally significant. Birth rates fluctuate greatly in the 44 urban and rural districts. The district of Tuttlingen leads with a birth rate of 1.72, followed by Rottweil and Calw, which share second place with 1.65 children per woman each. In contrast, the lowest birth rates can be found in urban centers such as Freiburg im Breisgau with 1.10, Karlsruhe with 1.08 and Heidelberg, where the numbers were as high as 0.99. This urban-rural difference is a recurring phenomenon.

A closer look at the numbers

The details of birth development provide a clear picture. With 1.39 children per woman, the Rhine-Neckar district is exactly in line with the national average. Some other districts that also do better are Biberach (1.60), Sigmaringen (1.58) and Enzkreis (1.58). This shows that regional conditions have a strong influence on the decisions of families and expectant parents.

• Höchste Geburtenziffer: Landkreis Tuttlingen – 1,72
• Zweitplatzierte: Landkreise Rottweil und Calw – 1,65
• Drittplatzierte: Biberach – 1,60
• Niedrigste Geburtenziffer: Heidelberg – 0,99

However, there are also positive aspects. In some regions, such as Freiburg im Breisgau, a birth surplus of +171 was recorded, while the Tübingen district also shows a positive trend with +119. These figures bring a touch of optimism to the discussion about demographic developments.

What does this mean for the future?

The declining birth rate has long-term impacts on society, from the economy to infrastructure. How this phenomenon will affect different areas of life remains to be seen. The impact of an aging population cannot be underestimated and calls for solutions to maintain the balance. Demographic change is and will remain an important topic for the next few years.

Continuous monitoring of these trends is essential. Loud statistic-bw.de Politicians and decision-makers should definitely take measures to support families, incentivize births and improve living conditions for young parents. A good social climate could help stabilize birth rates.

It will be exciting to see how the birth landscape will change in the coming years. How do you think we could increase the birth rate in our region?