Family migration in Chinese superstar cities: are fertility intentions of migrants affected by co-resident parents?

Demographic challenges, such as population decline, aging, and low fertility rates, have gained significant policy and scholarly attention. This is particularly evident in China, given its large and aging population with a total fertility rate falling well below the replacement level. This study investigates the influence of migrant parents on the fertility intentions of migrants through a self-conducted survey conducted in Chinese superstar cities (i.e. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou). Our results indicate that migrant individuals with co-resident parents are 12.5% more likely to desire future children compared to those without such co-residence. Additionally, we find that the fertility intentions of migrants are more likely to be influenced by their parents rather than their parents-in-law. Furthermore, this effect is less pronounced for older migrants, those with lower educational levels, and individuals with higher incomes. These findings underscore the significant role of parents in shaping the behaviours and decisions of their children.