This study examines the socio-cultural and economic determinants of fertility differentials in rural and
urban Cross River State, Nigeria with specific focus on Calabar and Bendi communities. Survey design
was adopted and a sample of eight hundred and eighty respondents was drawn with the use of
purposive, quota and systematic sampling techniques. The study elicited data via structure
questionnaire and focus group discussions (FGD). Hypotheses of the study were tested using bi-variate
and multi-variate techniques. Findings revealed that age at entry into marital union, contraceptive use
and educational level significantly determined fertility differentials between rural and urban
communities in Cross River State. It was recommended among others that public enlightenment
campaigns on the use of contraceptives and proper family planning should be embarked upon by
concerned agencies.