LDS birthrates show decline, with data indicating smaller family sizes compared to historical trends and other religious groups.

The birthrate among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been declining, mirroring broader global and national trends. This decline has sparked discussions about the factors influencing family size within the faith community. While Latter-day Saint families have historically been larger than average in the United States, recent data suggests a shift in this pattern.

According to data scientist Stephen Cranney, as of 2024, 6.2% of Latter-day Saints had families with six or more children. This figure was the highest among all religious groups surveyed by the Cooperative Election Study that year, with Muslims following at 2.8%. Similarly, statistician Ryan Burge found that Latter-day Saints, who make up 1.3% of all U.S. families, account for 3.6% of families with four or more children.

Census data also highlights the demographic impact of Latter-day Saint communities. In counties where the faith is the majority, the average number of births per 1,000 residents is 14.6, compared to 11.9 in areas where the faith is in the minority. This disparity underscores the influence of the faith on local population growth.

The trend is not confined to the United States. Limited data from the 2023 Global Flourishing Study, conducted by Mormon Metrics’ Alex Bass, indicates a “Latter-day Saint baby boost” in regions with lower fertility rates, particularly in Europe. This suggests that the faith’s influence on family size extends beyond national borders.

Placing current birthrates in historical context reveals a long-term trend of decline. Data from the early 1980s shows that Latter-day Saint birthrates were significantly higher than they are today. This shift reflects broader societal changes, including rising living costs and delayed marriage ages, which have affected family planning across many communities.

The church has recognized these challenges and has taken steps to address them. Leaders have emphasized the importance of family and have encouraged members to prioritize childbearing. However, the effectiveness of these efforts remains a subject of ongoing discussion within the faith community.

The decline in birthrates among Latter-day Saints raises questions about the future of the faith’s demographic profile. As the church continues to navigate these changes, it faces the challenge of balancing traditional values with the realities of modern life. The church’s response to these issues will likely shape its future growth and influence.

Source: Read the original report