If I were to ask you what is the average size of an American family today, what would you say? We’re talking about the number of family members living in one household. According to statistics from 2022, the average American household has 2.5 people in it. (1)

I feel a little sorry for that half-person, don’t you? For the last century, families have been shrinking in numbers. This trend is consistent around the world. According to U.S. Census Bureau data from 1850, it was fairly common back then for American families to have 6 to 9 children. (2)

There is an old story about a pastor who was visiting a large family in his congregation. He asked one of the sons, “How many children are in your family?”

“Nine,” the boy replied.

The pastor said, “Wow, so many children must cost a lot.”

“Oh,…