Algeria's fertility rate has dropped to 2.5 children per woman in 2025, according to data from the World Bank and national statistics offices, reflecting a broader trend of declining birth rates across the Maghreb region. This marks a significant decrease from 2.8 in 2020 and 4.4 in 2000.
Demographers attribute the decline to increased female education and workforce participation, urbanization, and later marriages. In Algeria, the average age at first marriage for women rose to 29.3 years in 2025, up from 27.8 in 2015.
Similar patterns are observed in Morocco and Tunisia, where fertility rates have fallen to 2.3 and 2.1 respectively. The regional average now stands at 2.4, approaching replacement level.
Government officials in Algiers have expressed concern about the economic implications, including a shrinking workforce and increased pressure on pension systems. However, some economists note that lower fertility can boost per capita income and reduce pressure on public services.
