China’s low birth rates led to a decline in Beijing’s population.

In 2022, Beijing experienced more deaths than births due to high living and education costs compounded by the one-child policy.

Recently released population data indicates that Beijing has witnessed a decline in its population for the first time in nearly two decades. In 2022, the Chinese capital, boasting a population exceeding 21 million, recorded a natural decrease in population of -0.05 per 1,000 individuals due to a higher number of deaths than births. As reported by Beijing authorities, the city’s death rate rose to 5.72 deaths per 1,000 people, while the birth rate fell to 5.67 births per 1,000 people. Demographers observe that this adverse trend aligns with national patterns and reflects the economic and social factors influencing China’s diminishing birth rate.

Xiujian Peng, a senior research fellow at the Centre of Policy Studies at Victoria University in Australia, remarked that the low birthrate among permanent residents in Beijing is not unexpected, given the elevated cost of living and educational standards in the city. The Chinese government is actively working to counteract this trend, aiming to avert the economic repercussions of an aging population. Official data from the previous year revealed that China’s birthrate hit a historic low of 6.77 births per 1,000 people. It is important to note that the population figures for Beijing exclusively pertain to permanent residents and do not encompass the considerable number of migrant workers who flock to the city in pursuit of economic opportunities.

China’s one-child policy persisted for many years until its abolishment in 2016. Despite official encouragement for couples to have more than one child, many are choosing not to do so for a variety of reasons, such as the exorbitant cost of living, entrenched gender roles, and demanding work environments. Despite the introduction of legislative changes and social reforms, including improved access to maternal healthcare, increased availability of in vitro fertilization (IVF), streamlined birth registration processes, financial incentives, and discouragement of abortions, the downward trend in birth rates remains unaltered.

A 42-year-old resident of Beijing, originally hailing from a rural background, expressed, “It is exceedingly challenging to marry and start a family for a stable life.” This individual relocated to Beijing for education and employment, but in recent years has grappled with economic hardships, joblessness, and salary reductions. They further noted the daunting impossibility of purchasing a home in Beijing, adding another layer of complexity to family planning.