Published: 20 August 2026

By TubeHeadlines Featured Desk | Published: 20 August 2026 In the featured part of London, a peculiar trend is emerging: fewer babies are being born in Islington than almost anywhere else in the capital. The review explores the reasons behind this demographic shift, noting that the fertility rate in Islington is 0.99, the lowest in the capital apart from the city of London, and significantly lower than the national average of 1.4 in England and Wales. The average age of mothers in Islington is also notably high at 34.7 years, the fourth highest in the country. The review delves into the factors contributing to this trend by speaking with local residents. Many cite the high cost of living and housing as significant barriers to starting or expanding families. One resident mentions living in a one-bedroom apartment with two children, where the living room doubles as a bedroom. Another resident plans to move to Luxembourg, where childcare is free, to afford a second child. The challenges of balancing career aspirations with family planning are also highlighted, with some women choosing to delay having children to advance their careers. The review also discusses the perspectives of younger residents, such as students in their early 20s, who express concerns about financial stability and the ability to support a family in the future. The stress of the current cost of living and job market conditions adds to their hesitation. The economic realities in Islington are stark, with residents spending nearly half their salary on rent, and homes costing 12 times the average salary. The borough also faces some of the longest social housing waiting lists and highest childcare costs in the country. These factors are pushing families out of inner London to outer areas and beyond, contributing to a wider trend of declining birth rates in urban centers. the review notes the broader implications of this trend, such as school and maternity unit closures, and the departure of key workers from the city, which impacts the workforce and economy. Urban planning experts warn that a lack of children in the city signals an unhealthy urban environment, and there is a call for urgent action to address these challenges. Efforts by the mayor and government to tackle these issues include increasing affordable housing, funding free school meals, improving parental leave, and expanding childcare provisions. However, the review emphasizes that the declining birth rate is not just about the number of babies born but also reflects broader issues of childcare, housing, work, and financial choices that people face. Ultimately, the situation in Islington provides a snapshot of how life in London is changing, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address these complex challenges using a strategic tool.