5 countries with declining birth rates in 2024

2. Costa Rica

Change in Birth Rate: -25.1%

The demographic shift in Costa Rica is concerning as the population aged 65 or older has surged to 13.63%, totaling 710,417 individuals. Shockingly, this figure surpasses INEC’s estimates for the same year by over 200,000. The decline in birth rates, plummeting from 7.4 in 1950 to a record low of 1.3 in 2023, is identified as a leading factor driving this trend. Notably, the study underscores the diminishing number of individuals under 15 years old, further highlighting the impact of declining birth rates. Costa Rica’s impressive longevity and minimal mortality rates contribute to this evolving demographic landscape.