The decision not to have children is increasingly becoming the norm for many UK women, driven by a complex mix of economic pressures, personal aspirations, and societal changes. According to research from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), nearly three million women between 16 and 45 are likely to remain childfree – a figure that would be significantly lower if birth rates were in line with their grandparents'.
A record low of births in England and Wales in 2025, down for the fourth consecutive year, underscores this shift. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals that many women are re-evaluating traditional life paths, citing a range of factors influencing their choices, including financial constraints.
For individuals like Jess, a self-employed content creator in west London, an inconsistent income raises concerns about the financial stability required to raise a child. Many households struggle with rising housing costs and delayed financial independence, making the prospect of additional dependents daunting.
Women are not just prioritising finances; career advancement and travel are also top priorities. Chy, a 33-year-old account manager from the Midlands, exemplifies this, choosing to focus on her career and travel aspirations – which she believes would be harder to pursue with children. Her experiences also highlight cultural pressures, with some families struggling to understand the decision to remain childfree.
The lack of support for mothers and prohibitive cost of childcare are significant deterrents. A 2023 survey commissioned by the New Social Covenant Unit found that nearly half of the 1,500 18-35-year-old women surveyed who do not wish to become mothers cited the steep cost of childcare as a reason, with 41% indicating the need for a larger home if they had children was also a factor.
Online communities, such as those found on TikTok under hashtags like #childfree and #childfreebychoice, are providing vital spaces for women to share their experiences and find validation for their choices. As one user noted, "It's not about being selfish; it's about making the right choice for ourselves."