Parenthood in Germany looks noticeably different today than it did in the early 1990s. New data from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), released ahead of Father's Day on May 14, highlights a significant shift in the age at which men become fathers. Over a span of more than three decades, the average paternal age at childbirth has climbed steadily, and mothers are following a remarkably similar trend. Here is what the latest numbers reveal about how family planning in Germany has changed since 1991.
Men in Germany are becoming fathers at a notably older age than they did just over three decades ago. According to figures released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) ahead of Father's Day on May 14, the average age of fathers at the time of their children's birth stood at 34.7 years in 2024. In contrast, the average in 1991 was 31.0 years, marking an increase of 3.8 years over the period.
The age difference between fathers and mothers at the time of childbirth remains consistent, with fathers being 2.9 years older on average. Mothers in Germany were 31.8 years old at the birth of their children in 2024, compared to 27.9 years in 1991. This means women, too, are having children significantly later, with their average age rising by 3.9 years over the same timeframe.
When looking specifically at the birth order of children relative to the mother, the data paints a clear picture of rising parental age with each subsequent child. In 2024, fathers were 33.3 years old on average at the birth of the first child, 35.4 years at the second, and 36.6 years at the third. Mothers followed a similar pattern. They were 30.4 years old on average when their first child was born, 32.5 years at the birth of the second, and 33.5 years at the third.
The figures underscore a broader demographic trend in Germany. Both men and women are choosing to start families later in life than previous generations did. Over a span of more than thirty years, the average age at which Germans become parents has risen by nearly four years, a shift that reflects changing social and economic realities across the country.
From breaking news to thought-provoking opinion pieces, our newsletter keeps you informed & engaged.
By subscribing, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
