This study investigates the impact of offline and online social capital on fertility intentions in China using data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS2017) on 7,518 respondents aged 18–60. Ordered probit models reveal a positive association between offline social capital (social trust and network) and fertility intentions, while online social capital (Internet access frequency) shows a negative association. These relationships vary across gender, region, and age groups. The study further explores the mechanisms through which social capital influences fertility intentions, finding that perceptions of pensions, filial piety, and social justice play mediating roles.
