Average Age of Having First Child by Country 2026

The age of first-time motherhood in each country is influenced by a number of factors. Countries that have traditions where motherhood is encouraged and encouraged early have very low first-time motherhood average ages. Other countries with booming economies and more progressive social statuses have a higher age of first-time motherhood on average.

According to many reports, it appears that the mean or the average age of having a first child by country is 28 years. Some women are still having their first child in their forties in developed countries where careers are a priority. In countries with more traditional lifestyles where men are the providers, women have their first baby in their teens.

African Countries Don’t Delay Parenthood

Out of eight countries where the average age of having a firstborn is under 19, seven are in Africa: Chad (18.1), Malawi and Niger (18.5), Mozambique and Sierra Leone (18.7), and Madagascar and Mali (18.9). These figures stem largely from cultural traditions and societal norms. In many of these regions, starting a family at a younger age is common and aligns with long-standing community practices.

High fertility rates, youthful populations, and extended family systems are prevalent in these societies. In addition, people have limited access to formal education and career opportunities, and those factors lead to starting families earlier.

Andorra Has Babies Late

According to 2019 CIA data, the average age of the mother upon the birth of the first child in Andorra is 32.8 years. This reflects a common trend found in many developed countries, where women are choosing to focus on their education, careers, and personal goals before starting a family. With better access to healthcare and family planning, many feel they have more control over when to have children. So, in a small and stable country like Andorra, people tend to take their time to settle into parenthood.

Australia has an Average First Time Parenthood Age

Australia is a good example of a country with an average age of first-time motherhood that compares well with the average age of having first child by country globally. In Australia, the average age for having a first child is 30 years old. The range of age for first-time motherhood in Australia is 25-45 years.

Late motherhood is quite common in Australia, given the work and financial considerations. Education is also key when it comes to motherhood in Australia, with lower levels of education contributing to low birth rates in those age brackets. Although career plays an important role in the age of first-time motherhood in Australia, it is for the greater good of the children born there. When careers are established, women are more likely to have children.

Greece Has a High Birth Rate

Greece is an affluent country with a high birth rate and a government that wants as many future taxpayers in the birth rolls as possible. Still, mothers are working mothers here, and the average age of having a first child is 31 years. Later in life appears to be a key period of time for women to start having children. Marriage rates do not have anything to do with this, as women in Greece are not waiting for marriage to have children.

Another key factor influencing Greece’s age for first-time motherhood is child care. There is not as much affordable child-care in Greece as there is in other countries. This contributes significantly to the later onset of first-time motherhood. Work and other family factors are key influencers, as well. Many women in Greece prioritize careers and success.