Discover the Top 20 Most Popular Names in the United States

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Written by Loli Lucaciu

Published: October 16, 2023

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Choosing a name for a baby is a momentous decision, reflecting not only a child’s identity but also the trends and preferences of the times. Based on a list from the U.S. Social Security website, the country witnesses a diverse array of baby names that resonate with parents. From timeless classics to modern favorites, these names offer insight into the naming landscape of today.

Row of six multi ethnic Babies smiling in studio

Based on a list from the U.S. Social Security website, the country witnesses a diverse array of baby names that resonate with parents.

©sirtravelalot/Shutterstock.com

Bunch of cheerful joyful cute little children playing together and having fun. Group portrait of happy kids huddling, looking down at camera and smiling. Low angle, view from below. Friendship concept

From timeless classics to modern favorites, these lists offer insight into today’s naming landscape.

©Studio Romantic/Shutterstock.com

1. Olivia

Olivia’s timeless elegance and versatility made it the most popular girl’s name. It signifies “olive tree,” symbolizing peace and fruitfulness.

2. Emma

Emma’s grace and simplicity secured its second spot. Its meaning, “universal,” adds to its classic appeal.

3. Charlotte

Charlotte’s timeless charm and royal connotations made it a top choice among parents. Its meaning is “free man” or “petite.”

4. Amelia

Amelia’s elegance and vintage charm captivated parents seeking a name with character, meaning “work of the Lord.”

5. Sophia

With Greek origins and a meaning of “wisdom,” Sophia offers both beauty and depth.

6. Isabella

Isabella’s elegance and timeless appeal make it a name that never goes out of style, meaning “pledged to God.”

7. Ava

Ava’s short and sweet nature, combined with timeless appeal, makes it a beautiful choice. The name means “life” or “bird.”

8. Mia

Mia’s simple beauty and universal appeal have kept it a top choice among parents. Mia means “moon” or “month.”

9. Evelyn

Evelyn’s vintage charm and timeless elegance are beloved by parents. The name means “desired child” or “life.”

10. Luna

Luna’s celestial and dreamy qualities continue to shine as a unique and enchanting choice. Luna means “moon.”

11. Harper

With unisex appeal and literary connotations, Harper resonates with modern parents, meaning “harp player” or “minstrel.”

12. Camila

Camila’s melodic sound and multicultural appeal have contributed to its rise in popularity, meaning “young ceremonial attendant.”

13. Sofia

Sofia’s grace and international popularity have made it a name of enduring beauty, meaning “wisdom.”

14. Scarlett

With bold and vivid imagery, Scarlett is a name that leaves a lasting impression, symbolizing “red” or “scarlet.”

15. Elizabeth

Elizabeth’s regal history and nickname potential (Liz, Lizzie, Beth) offer enduring grace, meaning “pledged to God.”

16. Eleanor

Eleanor’s vintage charm and literary connections provide depth and character, meaning “bright, shining one.”

17. Emily

Emily’s sweetness and universal appeal have kept it a name that captures hearts. The name means “rival.”

18. Chloe

Chloe’s timeless charm and simplicity continue to be a name that parents love, meaning “green shoot” or “blooming.”

19. Mila

This name’s international flair and simplicity transcend borders; Mila means “gracious” or “dear.”

20. Violet

With its floral and elegant nature, Violet is a name of enduring beauty, symbolizing the vibrant violet flower.

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The most popular boy name in 2022 was Liam.

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1. Liam

With Irish origins and a meaning of “strong-willed warrior,” Liam’s simple charm secured its position as the most popular boy’s name.

2. Noah

A biblical name meaning “rest” or “comfort,” Noah offers a sense of strength and familiarity to parents who choose it for their sons.

3. Oliver

Oliver’s refinement and charm made it a stylish choice; with the meaning of “olive tree,” it symbolizes peace and growth.

4. James

A classic name with a strong presence, James continues to be a reliable choice for generations of parents.

5. Elijah

With its biblical roots and modern appeal, Elijah balances tradition and trend, offering a timeless choice.

6. William

This regal name with friendly nicknames like Will and Liam remains a beloved choice among parents.

7. Henry

Experiencing a resurgence in popularity, Henry’s vintage charm appeals to modern parents seeking a timeless name.

8. Lucas

With international flair, “Lucas” captivates parents looking for a globally recognized and timeless name.

9. Benjamin

Combining tradition and warmth, “Benjamin” welcomes families with its meaning of “son of the right hand.”

10. Theodore

Theodore, with its classic sound and nickname potential (Teddy or Theo), continues to gain popularity. It means “gift of God.”

11. Mateo

Bringing international flair with its Spanish origins, Mateo adds a touch of uniqueness to the list.

12. Levi

This name combines ruggedness and simplicity, appealing to parents who seek a strong and straightforward choice.

13. Sebastian

With timeless charm, Sebastian is a classic name that stands the test of time. It means “venerable” or “revered.”

14. Daniel

Exuding reliability and strength, Daniel remains a trusted choice for parents naming their sons.

15. Jack

Jack’s short and timeless nature offers a friendly and approachable quality to this classic name.

16. Michael

With biblical origins and timeless appeal, Michael remains a strong choice, meaning “who is like God.”

17. Alexander

This noble name with a strong sound resonates with parents seeking a name of substance and meaning. Alexander means “defender of the people.”

18. Owen

Owen, with Celtic origins and a modern feel, is a name on the rise, meaning “young warrior” or “well-born.”

19. Asher

Asher’s gentle sound and positive meaning, “happy” or “blessed,” provide a soothing and modern appeal.

20. Samuel

With classic appeal and biblical roots, Samuel remains a timeless choice. It means “God has heard.”

Conclusion

The United States’ most popular baby names offer a fascinating glimpse into general naming trends. Whether you prefer classics or modern gems, these names reflect the diverse and evolving preferences of parents across the continent. As new generations of children are given these names, they carry with them not only the monikers but also the spirit of the era in which they were born.

RankGirl’s Name
#1Olivia
#2Emma
#3Charlotte
#4Amelia
#5Sophia
#6Isabella
#7Ava
#8Mia
#9Evelyn
#10Luna
#11Harper
#12Camila
#13Sofia
#14Scarlett
#15Elizabeth
#16Eleanor
#17Emily
#18Chloe
#19Mila
#20Violet
List of Top 20 Girl Names in the U.S.

RankBoy’s Name
#1Liam
#2Noah
#3Oliver
#4James
#5Elijah
#6William
#7Henry
#8Lucas
#9Benjamin
#10Theodore
#11Mateo
#12Levi
#13Sebastian
#14Daniel
#15Jack
#16Michael
#17Alexander
#18Owen
#19Asher
#20Samuel
List of Top 20 Boy Names in the U.S.


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About the Author

Loli Lucaciu, a writer at A-Z Animals, primarily focuses on covering places and animals. Loli holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Film and Media, Comparative Literature, and Foreign Languages from Emory University, which she earned in 2017. She has been working as a writer, marketer, and creative for the past 7 years. A resident of Washington State, Loli loves animals and worldwide travel.

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