Top Countries with the Lowest Average Age for First-Time Motherhood

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Top Countries with the Highest Average Age When Women Have Their First Child in 2025

Iceland and Italy Lead the Way

In 2025, Iceland maintains its position at the top of the list with an average age of 31.4 years when women give birth for the first time. Close behind is Italy, with an average of 31.2 years. These countries exemplify trends toward delayed motherhood, influenced by factors such as higher education, career pursuits, and changing social norms.

Spain, Korea, and Ireland Follow Suit

Spain and South Korea share the 3rd spot, both averaging 31.1 years. Ireland isn’t far behind at 31.0 years, highlighting a trend seen across modern societies where women are postponing childbirth until their early 30s.

European Nations Dominating the Top Half

Switzerland, Greece, and Austria are among the European countries with the highest average ages, all hovering around 30.5 to 31.0 years. Countries like Japan (30.9 years) and Portugal (30.8 years) also feature prominently, indicating similar societal patterns: increased emphasis on education and career, alongside changing perceptions about motherhood.

Western Countries Making Progress

The United Kingdom trails just below the European leaders, with women having their first child at an average age of 29.9 years. The trend continues in the Nordic countries — Norway (29.8 years), Sweden and Finland (both 30.1 and 30.0 years respectively) — signaling a consistent shift toward later motherhood across northern Europe.

Down Under and North America

Australia (29.7 years) and Canada (29.6 years) are leading in their continents, followed by Singapore and the United States, where the average age for first-time mothers stands at 29.6 and 29.4 years, respectively. Such data mirror evolving lifestyles and economic considerations influencing family planning decisions.

Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern Trends

Japan remains notable with an average of 30.9 years, while elsewhere in Asia-Pacific, countries like South Korea and Singapore show similar delays. In the Middle East, Israel (29.2) and Lebanon are approaching the late twenties, reflecting gradual societal shifts.

Faster Trends in Eastern Europe

Countries like Romania (29.0) and Slovakia (28.9) demonstrate a slight decrease in age compared to Western Europe, yet still reflect later motherhood than global averages.

Countries with the Youngest First-Time Mothers

Moving toward the more youthful side, the Philippines and Pakistan have newcomers at an average age of 26.3 and 26.2, respectively. Nigeria (25.2) and Ghana (25.1) are among the nations where women tend to become mothers earlier, often due to cultural, socioeconomic, and educational factors.

Global Perspective: The Age Shift Continues

The data from 2025 clearly show a continuing worldwide trend toward delayed childbirth, especially in developed nations. Women are prioritizing education, careers, and personal growth before motherhood, contributing to the rise in average age across many countries.

Key Factors Influencing the Trends

Access to Education and Employment: Higher educational attainment correlates with later motherhood, as women often delay childbirth to establish careers.
Economic Stability: Economic uncertainties and rising costs of raising children cause many women to postpone starting families.
Societal Norms and Personal Preferences: Changing attitudes toward family life and career aspirations have contributed significantly.
Healthcare and Family Planning: Improved access to reproductive healthcare allows women to choose when they are ready for motherhood.

Future Implications

An increase in the average age at first childbirth may impact population growth rates, workforce demographics, and social policy planning. Countries with rapidly rising ages may need to adapt their healthcare, maternity leave policies, and social services to accommodate older mothers.

Note: This data is reflective of 2025, and trends may evolve further. For the most recent updates, consult official sources such as the OECD Family Database, United Nations Population Division, and World Bank.

Sources: OECD Family Database, United Nations Population Division, World Bank