ROME, March 31 (Xinhua) -- The birth rate in Italy fell to a record low in 2025, underscoring mounting demographic pressures, an aging population and evolving family structures, official data showed Tuesday.
According to figures released by national statistics body ISTAT, births dropped to about 355,000 last year, down nearly 4 percent year-on-year, and the fertility rate declined to 1.14 children per woman. At the same time, the number of women of child-bearing age continues to shrink, limiting prospects for a near-term recovery.
The average age of mothers rise to 32.7 years, reflecting a trend toward later parenthood, which experts say often results in smaller families.
While Italy's total population remains just under 59 million, deaths still significantly outnumber births. Nevertheless, this gap has been largely offset by immigration, with around 440,000 people moving to the country in 2025, the data showed.
Regional disparities persist, with northern areas recording relatively higher fertility rates, while southern regions have seen sharper declines. Sardinia has the lowest fertility level nationwide.
Meanwhile, household structures are shifting. Of the country's 26.6 million households, more than one-third consists of single individuals. Couples with children now account for less than 30 percent, while single-parent and childless households are on the rise.
Analysts say economic and social uncertainties continue to delay family formation, warning that the demographic shift could have a lasting impact on the Italian economy and welfare system. ■