Marshall County birth rate continues sharp decline as 2025 Vital Statistics are released

Monday, July 20, 2026 at 12:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

New data from the Marshall County Health Department's Vital Records division paints a striking picture of demographic change in the county, with birth numbers continuing a steep decade-long decline. At the same time, the department itself has modernized significantly to serve residents better.

Marshall County recorded just 140 live births in 2025 — 78 males and 62 females. Of those, 112 were born in a hospital setting and 28 at home. To put the decline in perspective, the county recorded just under 500 births in 2015. That number has been dropping steadily, with a sharper acceleration since 2022, when births were still near 400, making last year's total of 140 even more notable.

The youngest maternal age recorded was 17, and the oldest was 42.

A total of 420 Marshall County residents died in 2025 — 225 males and 195 females. The breakdown by age group tells a familiar story: five individuals were between the ages of 0 and 19; 33 were between 20 and 50; 53 were between 51 and 65; and 145 were between 66 and 80. The largest group — 196 deaths — was residents over the age of 80.

Of the 420 deaths, 365 were attributed to natural causes, and 27 were accidental. There was 1 homicide, 8 suicides, and 6 overdose deaths. Seventy-five veterans passed away, and the Marshall County Coroner handled 143 cases. Ten deaths were recorded as unreported.

Beyond the numbers, the Vital Records division has significantly updated how it operates. Electronic registration systems for births, deaths, and fetal deaths have been implemented through a partnership with the Indiana Department of Health, allowing for faster, more accurate reporting. Digital storage solutions have improved security and long-term preservation of records, and online application services now allow residents to request certified copies of birth and death certificates from home.

The Vital Records division operates as part of the Marshall County Health Department and serves as an essential resource for individuals and families across the county.