This research informs future policymaking and strategy development crucial to the Maldives’ population. The total fertility rate (TFR) has been decreasing drastically and by 2022, it stood at 1.7 children per woman (Census 2022), which is below replacement level. This situation calls for further research to understand the factors influencing families’ decisions about the number of children they have. In other words, what is driving low fertility levels? This study includes qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions that will help identify patterns and provide possible explanations for the decline in fertility rates over the past few decades. This study enables a comprehensive understanding of low fertility rates and the recent trend among youth and Maldivian families in general to have a preference for fewer children. The results of the study inform the policy analysis and provide recommendations to address the challenges associated with meeting family aspirations.