The Discrepancy of Fertility Recuperation From the Great Recession: The Geographic and Occupational Characteristics in the United States

Jeongsoo Kim , University of Texas at San Antonio
Lloyd Potter, University of Texas at San Antonio

Although the fertility rates have recuperated after the Great Recession, the extent of recuperation is not significant. This study posits that occupational and industrial characteristics of a county correlate with the recuperation of fertility after the Great Recession. We use the U.S. Census Bureau's Population Estimates Program (PEP) and American Community Survey (ACS) at a county level. This paper illustrates discrepancies in recovery exists across geographic areas. We then examine social and economic characteristics associated with variation in the recuperation of fertility post-recession. Results suggest that the highest recuperation areas tend to have a higher proportion of the labor force working in ‘management’ occupations. Also, a higher proportion of the labor force working in ‘education’ and ‘manufacturing’ industries appears to be associated with stronger recuperation. A higher percentage of the labor force working in ‘retail,’ ‘construction,’ and ‘public service’ industries appears to be associated with weaker recuperation.

See paper

 Presented in Session 123. Flash Session: Geospatial Analysis in Applied Demography