Infant mortality rates dropped to an all-time low in 2025, according to new data from the CDC.
The data comes from the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System. Estimates for 2025 are based on provisional death and birth data, with final figures expected later this year. Infant mortality rate is the number of deaths under age 1 year per 1,000 live births; neonatal mortality rate is the number of deaths of infants aged 0–27 days per 1,000 live births; and postneonatal mortality rate is the number of deaths of infants aged 28 days through 11 months per 1,000 live births.
Here is what to know.
1. The U.S. infant mortality rate dropped to 5.36 deaths per 1,000 live births from 5.54 deaths in the 12-month period ending in the fourth quarter of 2024.
2. Neonatal mortality dropped from 3.67 deaths in 2024 Q4 to 3.55 deaths in 2025 Q4.
3. Postneonatal mortality had the lowest decrease, going from 1.88 to 1.81 deaths between 2024 and 2025.
4. Sudden infant death syndrome was the only cause of death to see a decrease from 37.3 deaths to 33.4.
5. Four other causes of death — congenital malformations, short gestation/low birthweight, maternal complications and unintentional injury — had no significant changes.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.