Italy is experiencing an unprecedented demographic crisis. The birth rate has dropped to historic lows, while mortality remains high due to population aging. The natural balance — the difference between births and deaths — has been negative for over a decade.
The Crisis in Numbers
In 2025, births in Italy fell below 370,000 — a record low. At the same time, deaths exceeded 650,000. The negative natural balance of approximately -280,000 people is equivalent to losing a city the size of Catania every year.
Where Birth Rates Are Highest
The birth rate varies enormously between municipalities. Areas with the highest rates are concentrated in Trentino-Alto Adige, parts of Veneto and Lombardy, and municipalities with a significant presence of young immigrant families.
Municipalities with the Highest Birth Rate
Births per 1,000 inhabitants — Top 15 municipalities (population > 5,000)
Where Death Rates Are Highest
The highest mortality rates are found in municipalities with elderly populations, typically small towns in the Apennines and inland areas of Southern Italy. In these municipalities, the average age often exceeds 50 and the aging index is extremely high.
Municipalities with the Highest Death Rate
Deaths per 1,000 inhabitants — Top 15 municipalities (population > 5,000)
Birth Rate Map of Italy
Each municipality colored by population — zoom to explore areas with more births
The Regional Divide
The pattern is clear: the North-East and Trentino maintain relatively high birth rates thanks to family policies, high female employment, and the presence of foreign communities. The South, paradoxically, has seen its birth rate collapse — a traditionally prolific region like Campania now has rates similar to the North.
The demographic crisis is not just a statistic: fewer births mean fewer future workers, a growing welfare burden on active generations, and the progressive desertification of inland territories.
Explore all birth and death rate data in the Demographics section of DatiItalia.