Americas

Americas Overview

The Americas have experienced widespread declines in fertility and modest population growth over the past half century. The region consists of Northern America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.

The region’s total fertility rate is currently below replacement level at 1.7, ranging from 1.6 in Northern America to 1.8 in Central America and the Caribbean. A total fertility (TFR) rate of 2.1 is replacement level fertility, the average number of children a couple needs to have to replace themselves. Despite its low TFR, the region’s population is expected to increase 9% from 1.0 billion in 2024 to 1.1 billion in 2050, with increases ranging from 2% in the Caribbean to 15% in Central America. The Americas are also experiencing significant population aging, with a growing number and share of older adults. The current share of adults ages 65 and older is 13%, with shares ranging from 9% in Central America to 18% in Northern America.