To Reverse Plunging Birth Rate, China to Try 'Youth-Friendly Cities'

China announced plans Wednesday to update its cities to be better for raising children. It marks the country's latest attempt to reverse years of falling birth rates.

The plan was put together by the government. Leaders say the goal is to build a “childbirth-friendly society” by 2030.   

“By 2030, the concept of youth-development-oriented cities will be widely established,” the policy states. Once complete, the nation expects to see a “complete system for youth development.”

The blueprint highlights a wide range of ideas to better appeal to young people. One idea is to help fund young people wanting to start a business. Another idea is to create more housing closer to job hubs. China also aims to promote the creation of “youth-friendly” stores. They will sell products that appeal to 18- to 24-year-olds.  

The plan also includes measures to help with dating, reduce childcare costs, improve healthcare for moms and kids, and make access to school easier for children of migrant workers. 

China’s population has fallen for four years straight. It hit a record low in 2025 as births dropped to 7.92 million, or 5.63 births per 1,000 people. The country’s population fell 3.39 million last year. It is part of a larger downward trend in birth rates in many countries. That includes the US, much of South America, and all of the European Union. To sustain a population, a country's fertility rate must hover around 2.1. That's the measure of the number of children born to a woman during her lifetime. China’s has fallen to 1.2. The US stands at 1.63. 

Reflect: What factors would influence your decision about where you would want to live or raise a family?