Description of the Indicator
The Birth Rate indicator outlines the number of births per 1,000 females that occurred in 1990, 2000 2010, and 2021 for the region and state. It is another demographic component in relation to population estimates.
Why is it important?
As the number of births increases, corresponding resources must also expand to support them. Appropriate funding for education, health care services, and other programs must be available to ensure their bright and prosperous futures.
How is the region performing?
Birth rates per 1,000 females in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties and the state have declined since 1990. In 1990, Wayne County was the only part of the three-county region to have a higher birth rate than the state.
In the most recent period of available data, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties saw negligible decreases, Wayne County experienced a decrease of more than one percentage point, and the state showed a nominal increase.