The birth rate in the United Kingdom has fallen to its lowest level in half a century, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In 2025, England and Wales recorded 585,396 live births, down from 594,677 the previous year, marking the lowest rate since 1976 and the fourth lowest in the past 100 years. Meanwhile, births to families with at least one foreign-born parent reached a record high, accounting for about 40 percent of all births.

The ONS report shows that in more than a dozen areas of England and Wales, over 75 percent of babies were born to families with at least one foreign-born parent. London’s Brent recorded the highest rate at about 84 percent, followed by the City of London and Harrow. Among foreign-born mothers, those of Indian origin represented the largest group, making up 4.7 percent of all births, while Indian fathers accounted for 4.9 percent.

Analysts cited rising living costs, high rents and mortgages, and childcare expenses as key reasons couples are delaying parenthood. The average age of mothers rose to 31.1 years and fathers to 34 years in 2025, continuing a long-term trend toward later parenthood.