How popular is the baby name Blu in the United States right now? How popular was it historically? Use the popularity graph and data table below to find out! Plus, see all the blog posts that mention the name Blu.

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Popularity of the baby name Blu


Posts that mention the name Blu

Popular and unique baby names in each U.S. state in 2024

USA topographic map

Which baby names were the most popular in each U.S. state in 2024?

And which baby names appeared in the data for just one state last year?

Let’s check it out…

Alabama

Girl names (AL)Boy names (AL)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 234 babies
2. Olivia, 224
3. Amelia, 214
1. William, 314 babies
2. John, 303
3. James, 297
Unique to AL’s dataAlona, Kaziah, Laiklyn, MarcieBryston, Gaines, Javaris, Kamir, Raylon, Talan

Alaska

Girl names (AK)Boy names (AK)
Most popular1. Amelia, 39 babies
2. Olivia, 36
3. Aurora, 31
1. Oliver, 52 babies
2. Theodore, 40
3. Liam/Noah (tie), 39 each
Unique to AK’s data(none)(none)

Arizona

Girl names (AZ)Boy names (AZ)
Most popular1. Olivia, 346 babies
2. Emma, 326
3. Isabella, 306
1. Liam, 504 babies
2. Noah, 446
3. Mateo, 420
Unique to AZ’s dataAriza, Nizhoni, Adelani, Aryella, Blu, RehemaPayson, Huey, Tillman

The Navajo word nizhóní means “beautiful” or “good.”

Payson might be a reference to the Arizona town of Payson.

Tillman could be a tribute to Arizona Cardinals player Pat Tillman, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2004.

Arkansas

Girl names (AR)Boy names (AR)
Most popular1. Olivia, 132 babies
2. Amelia, 117
3. Emma, 104
1. Liam, 173 babies
2. Oliver, 159
3. Noah, 149
Unique to AR’s data(none)(none)

California

Girl names (CA)Boy names (CA)
Most popular1. Mia, 1,986 babies
2. Olivia, 1,931
3. Camila, 1,885
1. Liam, 2,716 babies
2. Noah, 2,674
3. Mateo, 2,360
Unique to CA’s dataMannat, Rahil, Shaya, Imara, Anayat, Genevie, Hennessy, Roya, Venice, Arlyn, Itzia, Iyari, Izabel, Jiana, Lulu, Sandy, Seerat, Yaneth, Avnoor, Daleysa, Dayra, Inayat, Iona, Magali, Nadar, Nazanin, Nico, Sahar, Ameli, Anahat, Arissa, Arpi, Avleen, Bani, Carmel, Delphine, Gisel, Jazlene, Justine, Kirpa, Ora, Raylene, Ruhani, Sidak, Xochi, Zephyr, Adelynne, Amanat, Arisa, Aritzia…
(top 50 of 502 total)
Armen, Hero, Remmy, Agam, Dara, Ekam, Mehtab, Himmat, Waris, Jujhar, Jun, Sahib, Jorawar, Lenin, Skye, Tejas, Tigran, Galileo, Hari, Kirin, Rai, Zeno, Kavir, Rigo, Sora, Aadvik, Franky, Gibran, Greg, Hovhannes, Kasra, Laksh, Nasser, Oz, Ara, Arin, Artur, Ashot, Bosco, Broderick, Eduin, Eliano, Ferdinand, Juno, Kavin, Marius, Matisse, Mehran, Mihir, Ojas…
(top 50 of 356 total)

Another unique-to-California girl name was Topanga.

Colorado

Girl names (CO)Boy names (CO)
Most popular1. Olivia, 277 babies
2. Charlotte, 262
3. Emma, 229
1. Liam, 423 babies
2. Oliver, 367
3. Noah, 341
Unique to CO’s data(none)Wacey

Connecticut

Girl names (CT)Boy names (CT)
Most popular1. Mia/Olivia (tie), 167 babies each
3. Charlotte, 155
1. Liam, 253 babies
2. Noah, 252
3. Oliver, 170
Unique to CT’s data(none)Kendriel

Delaware

Girl names (DE)Boy names (DE)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 46 babies
2. Sophia, 43
3. Emma, 38
1. Liam, 74 babies
2. Noah, 54
3. Oliver, 44
Unique to DE’s data(none)(none)

District of Columbia

Girl names (DC)Boy names (DC)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 48 babies
2. Olivia, 43
3. Zoe, 39
1. James, 58 babies
2. Liam, 56
3. Henry, 51
Unique to DC’s data(none)(none)

Florida

Girl names (FL)Boy names (FL)
Most popular1. Olivia, 1,142 babies
2. Emma, 1,084
3. Mia, 1,058
1. Liam, 1,818 babies
2. Noah, 1,736
3. Lucas, 926
Unique to FL’s dataElianis, Icelyn, Pera, Adel, Ainoah, Daliana, Emunah, Jaziyah, Kiarah, Saraiyah, Alanys, Aluna, Leyna, Sephora, Zayelle, Alaiia, Alesia, Anahia, Christelle, Christie, Daily, Dillon, Lidya, Mehlani, Reigna, Taisha, Taylynn, Viktoria, Yemaya, Zorah, Abigael, Ahsoka, Ainoa, Ariyana, Cailee, Cailynn, Cristy, Daniyah, Darah, Derin, Elayah, Florencia, Gaelle, Gracey, Jaelle, Jaia, Jasper, Jemimah, Kamoni, Khai…
(top 50 of 117 total)
Diago, Fabrizio, Piero, Yan, Woodley, Carlens, Eliyah, Kervens, Maelo, Zahmir, Adams, Geoffrey, Jakeem, Janiel, Khairo, Lamir, Mako, Nilo, Tavaris, Xian, Amael, Apolo, Armand, Artis, Chaz, Costa, Dequan, Ege, Filippo, Jahani, Jahmyr, Jardani, Jazir, Jomar, Keion, Khaleb, Kimani, Kuzey, Mattia, Matvey, Millan, Peace, Romir, Shamar, Thane, Trae, Yamil, Aeden, Antwon, Beckam…
(top 50 of 96 total)

Georgia

Girl names (GA)Boy names (GA)
Most popular1. Charlotte/Olivia (tie), 451 babies each
2. Amelia, 431
1. Liam, 771 babies
2. Noah, 708
3. James, 478
Unique to GA’s dataJalia, Amryn, Choyce, Honest, Ameria, Atley, Jaida, Jamiya, Kaiori, Nalayah, Teyana, Zori, Alden, Alonna, Amiria, Amouri, Annsley, Azani, Braylin, Cree, Dasia, Drue, Esma, Heran, Jazaiyah, Justyce, Kaidence, Kanyla, Kayani, Khylee, Kohen, Legacie, Mariya, Noriah, Nyrobi, Purity, Purpose, Savani, Waverley, Zakiya, ZanaiLawton, Jhacari, Kari, Nahmir, Quamir, Amarii, Kidus, Kmari, Murray, Sevin, Xylan, Britt, Chancellor, Charleston, Dayvon, Gaspar, Honest, Hutson, Jahsier, Jailen, Jakori, Jalani, Jameer, Jamiri, Kaedyn, Kamiri, Kendell, Keyshawn, Khayir, Kory, Kyier, Kymari, Makhari, Marquez, Oseas, Rahzi, Romari, Taylan, Taylon, Wilkes

Hawaii

Girl names (HI)Boy names (HI)
Most popular1. Olivia, 40 babies
2. Emma/Kaia (tie), 38 each
1. Noah, 59 babies
2. Elijah/Ezra/Liam (3-way tie), 40 each
Unique to HI’s dataNanea, Pualena, Malie, Olena, IlihiaKaimana, Kanaloa, Kaikoa, Kainalu, Kanoa, Makana, Ryzen, Nainoa, Ikaika, Kamahao, Kanai

Idaho

Girl names (ID)Boy names (ID)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 95 babies
2. Hazel, 91
3. Olivia, 89
1. Oliver, 143 babies
2. Henry, 113
3. Liam, 105
Unique to ID’s data(none)(none)

Illinois

Girl names (IL)Boy names (IL)
Most popular1. Olivia, 501 babies
2. Mia, 477
3. Charlotte, 463
1. Liam, 737 babies
2. Noah, 670
3. Oliver, 556
Unique to IL’s dataAlicja, Carley, Auden, Camora, Germany, Hajar, Jouri, Maja, Sila, Sofiia, Sofija, SusannahNikodem, Kacper, Maksym, Andrej, Damarion, Emry, Tadei, Zaviel, Ansar, Darrion, Eldon, Jozef, Lukyan, Nox, Trayvon

Indiana

Girl names (IN)Boy names (IN)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 354 babies
2. Amelia, 346
3. Sophia, 254
1. Oliver, 397 babies
2. Liam, 384
3. Theodore, 341
Unique to IN’s dataApolonia, Charlette, Halen, Maris, QuinnleyDarrin, Wrigley, Grayden, Jamin, Maciah, Naunihal, Oaklyn

Iowa

Girl names (IA)Boy names (IA)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 140 babies
2. Amelia, 133
3. Evelyn/Harper (tie), 121 each
1. Oliver, 192 babies
2. Henry, 187
3. Liam, 164
Unique to IA’s dataPosieWilbur, Willard

Kansas

Girl names (KS)Boy names (KS)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 166 babies
2. Olivia, 151
3. Emma, 131
1. Oliver, 174 babies
2. Theodore, 163
3. Liam, 150
Unique to KS’s data(none)Kipton

Kentucky

Girl names (KY)Boy names (KY)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 204 babies
2. Amelia, 191
3. Lainey/Willow (tie), 161 each
1. Liam, 256 babies
2. Oliver, 244
3. Waylon, 223
Unique to KY’s dataAnistyn, Blaklee, JorjaWoodson, Brentlee, Rook, Janson, Kashten

Louisiana

Girl names (LA)Boy names (LA)
Most popular1. Olivia, 204 babies
2. Amelia, 178
3. Charlotte, 173
1. Liam, 261 babies
2. Noah, 256
3. Elijah, 214
Unique to LA’s dataDaliyah, Makenzi, Baileigh, Jamari, Jori, KaislynDenym, Kylon, Crews, Demond, Mykel, Tyren, Kailon, Khyren, Kullen, Zaylon

Maine

Girl names (ME)Boy names (ME)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 60 babies
2. Olivia, 51
3. Evelyn, 45
1. Oliver, 79 babies
2. Theodore, 69
3. Henry, 51
Unique to ME’s data(none)Horace

Maryland

Girl names (MD)Boy names (MD)
Most popular1. Olivia, 231 babies
2. Charlotte, 225
3. Emma, 207
1. Liam, 455 babies
2. Noah, 348
3. James/Oliver (tie), 211 each
Unique to MD’s dataYari, Arsema, Ephrata, ImisioluwaRecord, Dyland, Drue, Hazel

The placeholder “Record” also popped up in Maryland’s data in 2023.

Massachusetts

Girl names (MA)Boy names (MA)
Most popular1. Olivia, 339 babies
2. Charlotte, 294
3. Emma, 294
1. Noah, 514 babies
2. Liam, 441
3. Oliver, 346
Unique to MA’s dataMariaclara, Mariaalice, Analiz, Isabelly, Lunna, MarialuizaJoaomiguel, Otavio

Michigan

Girl names (MI)Boy names (MI)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 382 babies
2. Amelia, 377
3. Olivia, 316
1. Noah, 488 babies
2. Theodore, 469
3. Oliver, 454
Unique to MI’s dataZahraa, Raneem, Maram, Onalee, Winnifred, Annastasia, Jersei, Kamoura, Lainie, Lenni, Lyndie, Mielle, Raevyn, RhileyHaidar, Hutch, Hutchinson, Majd, Masyn, Wellington, Callaghan, Colston, Henryk, Kavon, Khyaire, Marquan, Myair, Orrin, Siraj, Uthman

Minnesota

Girl names (MN)Boy names (MN)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 225 babies
2. Evelyn, 222
3. Olivia, 208
1. Liam, 340 babies
2. Henry/Theodore (tie), 326 each
Unique to MN’s dataMaiza, Maryama, Nawal, Manal, Anzal, Svea, Munira, Maryan, Solveig, Ahlaam, Hamdi, Hikma, Salwa, Britta, Freja, Ikhlas, Manaal, Nada, Paw, Sabrin, Suhaila, YemariamAbdullahi, Muad, Mubarak, Bauer, Eh, Munasar, Sabir, Mohamedamin, Jabir, Maher, Masud, Mazin, Mubashir, Muzamil, Nels, Ole, Sajid, Suhaib

Mississippi

Girl names (MS)Boy names (MS)
Most popular1. Ava, 94 babies
2. Olivia, 93
3. Amelia, 86
1. William, 161 babies
2. John, 158
3. James, 146
Unique to MS’s dataKhylie, Jaisley, LoxleyJamarius

Missouri

Girl names (MO)Boy names (MO)
Most popular1. Amelia/Charlotte (tie), 292 each
2. Olivia, 252
1. Oliver, 425 babies
2. Henry, 323
3. Theodore, 303
Unique to MO’s dataSaloma, Jensyn, Kayori, LettiEverhett, Huxlee, Bently, Dietrich, Maclin

Montana

Girl names (MT)Boy names (MT)
Most popular1. Lainey, 47 babies
2. Charlotte, 41
3. Olivia, 37
1. Oliver, 58 babies
2. James, 56
3. Theodore, 49
Unique to MT’s data(none)(none)

Nebraska

Girl names (NE)Boy names (NE)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 107 babies
2. Evelyn, 83
3. Amelia/Harper/Olivia (3-way tie), 82 each
1. Oliver, 137 babies
2. Theodore, 122
3. Henry, 113
Unique to NE’s dataHalsey, Lennie(none)

Nevada

Girl names (NV)Boy names (NV)
Most popular1. Olivia, 159 babies
2. Isabella, 121
3. Sophia, 119
1. Liam, 213 babies
2. Mateo, 187
3. Noah, 177
Unique to NV’s data(none)(none)

New Hampshire

Girl names (NH)Boy names (NH)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 93 babies
2. Olivia, 55
3. Amelia, 54
1. Theodore, 91 babies
2. Oliver, 90
3. Henry, 82
Unique to NH’s data(none)(none)

New Jersey

Girl names (NJ)Boy names (NJ)
Most popular1. Mia, 468 babies
2. Sophia, 465
3. Emma, 456
1. Liam, 773 babies
2. Noah, 717
3. Lucas, 428
Unique to NJ’s dataTzipora, Tzivia, Leba, Ettel, Tzipporah, Deena, Mahi, Radhika, Reena, Rus, Temi, Temima, Arna, Asani, Dena, Fatema, Heloisa, Nili, Perri, TammyYechezkel, Michoel, Elchonon, Shaul, Avigdor, Nosson, Naftoli, Arda, Shimshon, Shivaay, Domenick, Joniel, Maahir, Mordy, Nochum, Aryav, Harshiv, Nechemia, Refoel, Shivay, Shiven, Shua

New Mexico

Girl names (NM)Boy names (NM)
Most popular1. Mia, 81 babies
2. Camila, 74
3. Emma, 72
1. Noah, 102 babies
2. Mateo, 96
3. Ezekiel/Liam (tie), 95 each
Unique to NM’s data(none)(none)

New York

Girl names (NY)Boy names (NY)
Most popular1. Mia, 836 babies
2. Emma, 830
3. Sophia, 821
1. Liam, 1,445 babies
2. Noah, 1,409
3. Lucas, 774
Unique to NY’s dataGitty, Faigy, Rivky, Sury, Chany, Hindy, Esty, Goldy, Hinda, Yides, Faiga, Henny, Perel, Shevy, Etty, Brucha, Frady, Yenty, Frimet, Shaindel, Aissatou, Mushka, Frimmy, Kadiatou, Zlaty, Mirel, Abiha, Ayelet, Bina, Reizel, Toba, Ajla, Chani, Maha, Muntaha, Penina, Ratzy, Rivkah, Sari, Chumy, Faiza, Frimy, Hadja, Mali, Yittel, Arfa, Baily, Fatiha, Fotima, Henchy…
(top 50 of 192 total)
Hershy, Mendy, Usher, Yechiel, Hersh, Elimelech, Yossi, Avrumy, Lazer, Hershel, Pinchas, Motty, Shloma, Shraga, Duvid, Meilech, Pinchus, Mordche, Yida, Ousmane, Burech, Leiby, Boruch, Faizan, Safwan, Muhammadamin, Sruly, Aboubacar, Nuchem, Rakan, Yona, Ahnaf, Boubacar, Nachman, Tovia, Abdoul, Ibrohim, Menashe, Arish, Mechel, Noach, Akil, Imron, Ioannis, Mouhamadou, Naseem, Abrar, Antonino, Giacomo, Nazar…
(top 50 of 181 total)

North Carolina

Girl names (NC)Boy names (NC)
Most popular1. Olivia, 469 babies
2. Amelia, 466
3. Emma, 425
1. Liam, 745 babies
2. Noah, 685
3. Oliver, 536
Unique to NC’s dataKeagan, Lynleigh, Myers, Niara, Lynnox, Nalaya, Nyasia, Talayah, Xenovia, Emaline, Grayson, Layloni, Mailynn, Rian, Tahani, Taylen, Xylani, Xylia, ZenayaNakari, Nylan, Cyncere, Daquan, Macon, Righteous, Takoda, Wheeler, Wisdom, Dani, Jaceyon, Kaesyn, Laine, Lakota, Talen, Zaelyn

North Dakota

Girl names (ND)Boy names (ND)
Most popular1. Evelyn, 48 babies
2. Amelia/Lainey (tie), 37 each
1. Oliver, 56 babies
2. Henry, 49
3. Theodore, 45
Unique to ND’s data(none)(none)

Ohio

Girl names (OH)Boy names (OH)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 531 babies
2. Amelia, 480
3. Olivia, 420
1. Oliver, 617 babies
2. Noah, 597
3. Theodore, 595
Unique to OH’s dataMaizey, Maylynn, Renn, Adlee, Bexleigh, Winsley, Amyla, Coralynn, Corrine, Elayne, Jayonna, Kamara, Kiah, Kierra, Kimberlee, Krista, Laci, Lanae, Layonna, Leigha, Lenyx, Leonna, Treazure, WeslynJoni, Kenyon, Larkin, Martez, Raymir, Rennick, Shreyansh, Trevin, Bodey, Brantlee, Cincere, Dameir, Domani, Ebenezer, Harlen, Javin, Kallan, Kingstyn, Tymeir, Urban, Weller, Zylon

Oklahoma

Girl names (OK)Boy names (OK)
Most popular1. Olivia, 165 babies
2. Amelia/Charlotte (tie), 149 each
1. Liam, 262 babies
2. Oliver, 210
3. Noah, 192
Unique to OK’s dataNiang, MyleighThang

Oregon

Girl names (OR)Boy names (OR)
Most popular1. Olivia, 164 babies
2. Amelia, 149
3. Charlotte, 135
1. Oliver, 237 babies
2. Liam, 201
3. Theodore, 189
Unique to OR’s data(none)Timber

Pennsylvania

Girl names (PA)Boy names (PA)
Most popular1. Olivia, 513 babies
2. Charlotte, 487
3. Emma, 460
1. Noah, 740 babies
2. Liam, 611
3. Oliver, 597
Unique to PA’s dataFannie, Lavina, Kelce, Sumayyah, Surah, Avamarie, Danni, Harlo, Keegan, Kree, Liani, Sarann, Verna, Ameenah, Ayuri, Azarah, Daysha, Jazara, Kerri, Khori, Liviana, Michaella, Roseanna, Shree, Tayla, Vivia, Wrenna, ZuriyahBenuel, Mahlon, Nino, Trea, Azier, Boyd, Muadh, Aasir, Aayush, Ahzir, Azim, Conall, Freeman, Jamian, Jaxiel, Karon, Nasai, Nevin, Penn

Fannie, Lavina, Benuel, and Mahlon are often used by the Amish.

Kelce could have been influenced by longtime Philadelphia Eagles player Jason Kelce, who announced his retirement in early 2024.

Rhode Island

Girl names (RI)Boy names (RI)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 48 babies
2. Mia, 44
3. Emma, 42
1. Liam, 74 babies
2. Noah, 68
3. Lucas, 66
Unique to RI’s data(none)(none)

South Carolina

Girl names (SC)Boy names (SC)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 227 babies
2. Amelia, 202
3. Olivia, 197
1. Noah, 310 babies
2. Liam, 295
3. William, 274
Unique to SC’s dataGracen, Nature, RoyaltiDrayton, Creighton, Kymere

South Dakota

Girl names (SD)Boy names (SD)
Most popular1. Amelia, 47 babies
2. Charlotte/Lainey (tie), 45 each
1. Liam/Oliver (tie), 52 babies each
2. Henry, 51
Unique to SD’s data(none)(none)

Tennessee

Girl names (TN)Boy names (TN)
Most popular1. Amelia, 354 babies
2. Charlotte, 343
3. Olivia, 304
1. Liam, 532 babies
2. Oliver, 427
3. William, 421
Unique to TN’s dataWeslynn, Acelyn, Azayla, Brilee, Cing, Deasia, Lakely, Lemon, Maevry, Posey, RileighNeyland, Ryman, Holston, Kavion, Zamarion, Ladarius, Breyer, Huntlee, Locklan, Martavious, Walton

Neyland and Ryman are references to Neyland Stadium and Ryman Auditorium.

Texas

Girl names (TX)Boy names (TX)
Most popular1. Olivia, 1,757 babies
2. Emma, 1,754
3. Mia, 1,689
1. Liam, 3,084 babies
2. Noah, 2,396
3. Mateo, 2,087
Unique to TX’s dataEugenia, Berenice, Cambri, Analeigha, Ailen, Maribella, Myka, Silvana, Amorette, Ayelen, Channing, Chimamanda, Chizaram, Conley, Dariela, Emarie, Lyriq, Alizay, Aven, Azlynn, Karli, Kiari, Maysen, Taryn, Tiaraoluwa, Collyns, Karson, Kimberlyn, Kolbi, Leddy, Leigh, Mialani, Shaddai, Steely, Vibha, Xayla, Yeshna, Zailee, Aeliana, Arlie, Atenea, Chizara, Golden, Hannia, Ivyanna, Kaisleigh, Kambrie, Katalyna, Kayliana, Leilanni…
(top 50 of 535 total)
Roel, Stoney, Witten, Cutter, Ediel, Homero, Hays, Judge, Amelio, Cross, Jr, Rhyder, Texas, Eduar, Eliud, Hilario, Kaycee, Zacchaeus, Avik, Ayaansh, Azlaan, Banner, Brahim, Dimas, Fabricio, Fermin, Jaceon, Jehu, Manvik, Riyansh, Tilden, Yamin, Zayvian, Aavyan, Alam, Anias, Audie, Azreal, Caine, Collins, Enmanuel, Esiah, Exodus, Gamaliel, Hamdan, Jazhiel, Judas, Kiyaan, Magdiel, Mathieu…
(top 50 of 343 total)

Utah

Girl names (UT)Boy names (UT)
Most popular1. Olivia, 215 babies
2. Charlotte, 189
3. Emma, 175
1. Oliver, 285 babies
2. Liam, 260
3. Henry, 238
Unique to UT’s dataAfton, Brexlee, Bronwyn, Maizee, Quincey, SwayzeeMckay, Hyrum, Jeter, Talmage, Covey, Bruin, Dallin, Elden, Clancy, Garth, Griffey, Kove, Quin, Sosaia, Tomasi

Past and current leaders of the LDS Church include David O. McKay, Hyrum Smith, James E. Talmage, and Dallin H. Oaks. And I think it’s possible that Covey was influenced by LDS-associated business writer Stephen Covey (The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People).

Vermont

Girl names (VT)Boy names (VT)
Most popular1. Amelia, 29 babies
2. Charlotte, 28
3. Harper, 24
1. Oliver, 34 babies
2. Henry, 28
3. Theodore, 27
Unique to VT’s data(none)(none)

Virginia

Girl names (VA)Boy names (VA)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 435 babies
2. Olivia, 362
3. Sophia, 354
1. Liam, 585 babies
2. Noah, 511
3. James, 425
Unique to VA’s dataDakotah, Aaryn, Odyssey, Rayelle, SoliyanaCaelan, Afton, Emaan, Johannes, Leul, Terence, Tyus

Washington

Girl names (WA)Boy names (WA)
Most popular1. Olivia, 354 babies
2. Charlotte, 284
3. Amelia, 269
1. Oliver, 448 babies
2. Liam, 444
3. Noah, 388
Unique to WA’s dataAmen, Solomiya, Airi, Ishira, MaanyaAvenir, Babyboy, Ruvim, Anav

West Virginia

Girl names (WV)Boy names (WV)
Most popular1. Amelia, 89 babies
2. Lainey/Olivia (tie), 72 each
1. Oliver, 102 babies
2. Waylon, 92
3. Maverick, 83
Unique to WV’s data(none)Koleson

Wisconsin

Girl names (WI)Boy names (WI)
Most popular1. Charlotte, 248 babies
2. Olivia, 209
3. Evelyn, 206
1. Oliver, 314 babies
2. Henry, 303
3. Liam, 296
Unique to WI’s dataLorene, SigridTidus

Lorene is another name often used by the Amish.

Wyoming

Girl names (WY)Boy names (WY)
Most popular1. Emma, 19 babies
2. Harper/Hazel (tie), 18 each
1. Oliver, 27 babies
2. Hudson/James (tie), 24 each
Unique to WY’s data(none)(none)

Do you have thoughts/theories about any of these single-state names?

Source: Popular Names by State – SSA

Image: Topographical Map of the USA by NOAA

Top gender-neutral baby names of 2021: Parker, River, Charlie

pink and blue cupcakes

Looking for baby names that work for both genders?

Actually, let me rephrase that: Do you want to see which names are being given to sizeable numbers of baby boys and baby girls in the U.S. right now?

I wanted to ask the question in a more specific way because I think the details matter. Names can be gender-neutral in theory, but that doesn’t mean they’re being given to babies of both genders in practice.

It’s the difference between Evelyn and Everest.

Gender identity is a big topic of conversation these days, so it’s not surprising that an ever-growing number of parents are searching for baby names that aren’t strongly associated with one gender or the other.

To know what’s happening with baby names in real life, though, we need to focus on the data. That’s why I didn’t consider anything but data when I created the list below.

These names were culled from the 2021 U.S. baby name data (provided by the U.S. Social Security Administration). Each one saw usage that was at least one-third female and at least one-third male, making all of them relatively gender-neutral among today’s newborns.

Top gender-neutral baby names

Let’s start with a quick rundown of the 20 most popular gender-neutral baby names in the U.S. right now:

  1. Parker
  2. River
  3. Charlie
  4. Blake
  5. Hayden
  6. Emerson
  7. Amari
  8. Finley
  9. Remington
  10. Phoenix
  11. Oakley
  12. Dakota
  13. Tatum
  14. Rory
  15. Ari
  16. Alexis
  17. Armani
  18. Remy
  19. Reign
  20. Milan

Now here’s the same list again, but this time around I’ve added some details.

Parker (#1)

Last year, the name Parker was given to 6,229 babies. Of these babies, 2,406 (38.63%) were girls and 3,823 (61.37%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Parker placed 115th for girls and 93rd for boys.

Parker is an English surname that originally referred to someone who was employed as the keeper of a hunting park.

River (#2)

Last year, the name River was given to 5,317 babies. Of these babies, 1,862 (35.02%) were girls and 3,455 (64.98%) were boys. In terms of rankings, River placed 151st for girls and 110th for boys.

River, the English word that refers to a flowing body of water, was derived from the Latin word ripa, meaning “riverbank” or “seashore.”

Charlie (#3)

Last year, the name Charlie was given to 4,190 babies. Of these babies, 2,202 (52.55%) were girls and 1,988 (47.45%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Charlie placed 127th for girls and 189th for boys.

Charlie is a diminutive of the male name Charles, which ultimately comes from the Germanic name Karl, which meant “freeman” (i.e., not a serf or slave).

Interestingly, Charlie is a top-10 name for boys in some regions (like New Zealand and Ireland) and a top-10 name for girls in others (like Quebec).

Blake (#4)

Last year, the name Blake was given to 3,337 babies. Of these babies, 1,497 (44.86%) were girls and 1,840 (55.14%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Blake placed 199th for girls and 205th for boys.

Blake is an English surname that can be traced back to either of two Old English words that happen to have opposite meanings — one being “black,” the other being “white.”

Hayden (#5)

Last year, the name Hayden was given to 3,283 babies. Of these babies, 1,096 (33.38%) were girls and 2,187 (66.62%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Hayden placed 290th for girls and 176th for boys.

Hayden is an English surname that originally referred to someone from one of several different like-named locations. In many cases, the place names were made up of elements meaning “hay” and “hill.” (Depending upon the location, though, the first element sometimes meant “fence enclosure,” and the second element sometimes meant “valley.”)

Emerson (#6)

Last year, the name Emerson was given to 2,952 babies. Of these babies, 1,729 (58.57%) were girls and 1,223 (41.43%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Emerson placed 167th for girls and 279th for boys.

Emerson is an English surname that originally referred to the son of someone named Emery.

Amari (#7)

Last year, the name Amari was given to 2,880 babies. Of these babies, 972 (33.75%) were girls and 1,908 (66.25%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Amari placed 333rd for girls and 199th for boys.

Amari is a modern name that doesn’t seem to have a specific origin or meaning.

Finley (#8)

Last year, the name Finley was given to 2,705 babies. Of these babies, 1,407 (52.01%) were girls and 1,298 (47.99%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Finley placed 211th for girls and 265th for boys.

Finley is based on the Gaelic name Fionnlagh, which is made up of elements meaning “white” and “warrior.”

Remington (#9)

Last year, the name Remington was given to 2,475 babies. Of these babies, 890 (35.96%) were girls and 1,585 (64.04%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Remington placed 348th for girls and 231st for boys.

Remington is an English surname that originally referred to someone from the town of Rimington, in Lancashire. (It’s also an American gun brand.)

Phoenix (#10)

Last year, the name Phoenix was given to 2,454 babies. Of these babies, 1,032 (42.05%) were girls and 1,422 (57.95%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Phoenix placed 308th for girls and 248th for boys.

Phoenix, the word that refers the mythological bird that rises from its own ashes, was derived from an ancient Greek word meaning “crimson” or “purple.”

Oakley (#11)

Last year, the name Oakley was given to 2,292 babies. Of these babies, 1,524 (66.49%) were girls and 768 (33.51%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Oakley placed 193rd for girls and 403rd for boys.

Oakley is an English surname that originally referred to someone from one of several different like-named locations. In all cases, the place names were made up of elements meaning “oak” and “clearing.”

Dakota (#12)

Last year, the name Dakota was given to 2,090 babies. Of these babies, 1,147 (54.88%) were girls and 943 (45.12%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Dakota placed 270th for girls and 344th for boys.

Dakota, the name of a Native American tribe, means “friendly” or “allied” in the Siouan language of the Dakota people.

Tatum (#13)

Last year, the name Tatum was given to 1,959 babies. Of these babies, 1,125 (57.43%) were girls and 834 (42.57%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Tatum placed 279th for girls and 385th for boys.

Tatum is an English surname that originally referred to the homestead of someone named Tata.

Rory (#14)

Last year, the name Rory was given to 1,919 babies. Of these babies, 789 (41.12%) were girls and 1,130 (58.88%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Rory placed 396th for girls and 295th for boys.

Rory is an Anglicized form of the Irish name Ruaidhri, which is made up of elements meaning “red” and “king.”

Ari (#15)

Last year, the name Ari was given to 1,598 babies. Of these babies, 649 (40.61%) were girls and 949 (59.39%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Ari placed 478th for girls and 342nd for boys.

Ari has several potential definitions, including: “lion” in Hebrew, “brave” in Armenian, and “eagle” in Icelandic.

Alexis (#16)

Last year, the name Alexis was given to 1,569 babies. Of these babies, 940 (59.91%) were girls and 629 (40.09%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Alexis placed 341st for girls and 472nd for boys.

Alexis comes directly from the ancient Greek (male) name Alexis, which meant “helper” or “defender.”

Armani (#17)

Last year, the name Armani was given to 1,540 babies. Of these babies, 661 (42.92%) were girls and 879 (57.08%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Armani placed 469th for girls and 369th for boys.

Armani is an Italian surname that originally referred to the child of someone named Armano. (It’s also an Italian fashion brand.)

Remy (#18)

Last year, the name Remy was given to 1,451 babies. Of these babies, 550 (37.90%) were girls and 901 (62.10%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Remy placed 550th for girls and 357th for boys.

Remy, written Rémy in French, is based on the Latin name Remigius, which meant “oarsman.”

It’s interesting that both Remy and Remington are on this list. Remy is a standalone name…but it could also be used as a nickname for Remington.

Reign (#19)

Last year, the name Reign was given to 1,338 babies. Of these babies, 884 (66.07%) were girls and 454 (33.93%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Reign placed 349th for girls and 608th for boys.

Reign is an English word that can be traced back to the Latin word regnum, meaning “royal power” or “kingdom.”

Milan (#20)

Last year, the name Milan was given to 1,278 babies. Of these babies, 452 (35.37%) were girls and 826 (64.63%) were boys. In terms of rankings, Milan placed 655th for girls and 388th for boys.

Milan is a Slavic name based on the element milu, meaning “dear, sweet.” (It’s also a city in northern Italy.)

More gender-neutral baby names

What other gender-neutral names made the cut?

Here are the names that were used a bit less often than the twenty above…

Number of babies*Percent girlsPercent boys
Shiloh1,24561.69%38.31%
Legacy1,08666.30%33.70%
Salem97062.99%37.01%
Briar95562.20%37.80%
Denver94138.68%61.32%
Skyler93058.92%41.08%
Drew91337.13%62.87%
Jamie84748.41%51.59%
Bellamy81245.44%54.56%
Justice81246.92%53.08%
Azariah79447.23%52.77%
Layne76143.63%56.37%
Chandler75839.97%60.03%
Ocean67345.77%54.23%
*Male and female usage added together

All of the above ranked among both the top 1,000 girl names and the top 1,000 boy names last year. Two of the below (Robin and Landry) did as well.

Number of babies*Percent girlsPercent boys
Quincy65333.38%66.62%
Murphy61065.25%34.75%
Tru60836.02%63.98%
Kingsley59437.71%62.29%
Robin54653.11%46.89%
Amiri50234.46%65.54%
Landry48955.01%44.99%
Ira46535.91%64.09%
Kacey42548.94%51.06%
Joey42441.75%58.25%
Campbell41450.72%49.28%
True40553.09%46.91%
Everest38534.55%65.45%
Arden38558.70%41.30%
Harlem37937.20%62.80%
Shea37963.85%36.15%
Sol37563.47%36.53%
Bowie37036.76%63.24%
*Male and female usage added together

Most of the above appeared in at least one top-1,000 list last year. The exceptions were Kacey, Campbell, True, Arden, Shea, and Sol.

None of the names from this point onward reached the top 1,000 for either gender.

Number of babies*Percent girlsPercent boys
Hollis36245.03%54.97%
Yael34839.37%60.63%
Joan34045.59%54.41%
Laken31556.19%43.81%
Gentry30245.36%54.64%
Lux29636.15%63.85%
Sidney29355.29%44.71%
Kasey28456.34%43.66%
Kadence28066.43%33.57%
Ever27840.65%59.35%
Camdyn27036.67%63.33%
Jael27048.15%51.85%
Dominique26033.46%66.54%
Montana26057.69%42.31%
Kodi25856.20%43.80%
Ramsey25447.24%52.76%
Perry25342.69%57.31%
Storm24557.14%42.86%
Ashtyn24360.91%39.09%
Honor24047.92%52.08%
Kit23344.64%55.36%
Brighton23246.98%53.02%
Isa22733.48%66.52%
Armoni21050.00%50.00%
Merritt20860.58%39.42%
Jupiter20662.62%37.38%
Arrow20338.42%61.58%
Laine20363.55%36.45%
Jules20143.78%56.22%
*Male and female usage added together

Here are the gender-neutral baby names that saw overall usage ranging from 100 to 199 babies (in descending order):

Yuri, Arie, Ridley, Kobi, Jean, Channing, Linden, Shannon, Indiana, Marlo, Taylin, Divine, Cypress, Iman, Daylin, Aris, Wynn, Jelani, Halston, Rumi, Levy, Camari, Jackie, Austen, Azari, Issa, Lake, Huntley, Amen, Loren, Eastyn, Sora, Everette, Timber, Kaylen, Johnnie, Nikita, Ryver, Lexington, Reilly, Hudsyn, Charleston, Aven, Akari, Koi, Dru, Lou, Kylar, Payson, Finlee, Cove, Halen, Bryar, Royale, Tracy, Eliyah, Larkin, Amarii, Mecca, Britton, Emari, Nazareth, Kamani, Valentine, Ellington, Tenzin, Ryley, Kaidence, and Kirby.

And, finally, here are the gender-neutral names that saw overall usage ranging from 50 to 99 babies (in descending order):

Soul, Gracen, Daelyn, Wisdom, Conley, Arley, Evren, Rogue, Rhythm, Peace, Mykah, Blue, Masyn, Lowen, Golden, Callaway, Phoenyx, Blu, Lael, Rainn, Tommie, Bleu, Jadyn, Alexi, Bennie, Lennix, Choyce, Amaree, Atley, Rei, Crimson, Tristyn, Maeson, Declyn, Honest, Ilya, Amory, Rawlings, Jianni, Jensyn, Teigen, Lynden, Weslee, Maze, Graycen, Zaelyn, Paxtyn, Tennessee, Davey, Marvel, Joud, Rhylan, Deniz, Azure, Davy, Desi, Rhen, Breeze, Arlie, Harlo, Roux, Riven, Lakota, Airam, Denym, Jae, Tayler, Bostyn, Adair, Ciel, Namari, Kodie, Quinlan, Salah, Drue, Kamoni, Kayan, Jordin, Carrington, and Sakari.


Most of the names above don’t have a long history of usage in the U.S., so they aren’t anchored one gender or the other — making them good options for expectant parents who want names that work for both genders.

Note that many fall into a handful of categories, including: nature names, place names, surnames, color names, and virtue names. It may be worthwhile to focus on categories like these as you continue your search, as they’ll tend to naturally contain a good proportion of gender-neutral names.

Sources:

Image: Adapted from Gallery 1 by Sarah Howells under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Popular and unique baby names in Scotland (UK), 2021

Flag of the United Kingdom
Flag of the United Kingdom

According to the National Records of Scotland (NRS), the most popular baby names in the country last year were Olivia and Jack.

Here are Scotland’s top 50 girl names and top 50 boy names of 2021:

Girl Names

  1. Olivia, 349 baby girls
  2. Emily, 318
  3. Isla, 317
  4. Freya, 270
  5. Ella, 259
  6. Amelia, 257
  7. Ava, 241
  8. Sophie, 238
  9. Grace, 235
  10. Millie, 216
  11. Lily, 205
  12. Sophia, 200
  13. Charlotte, 196
  14. Rosie, 190
  15. Aria, 183
  16. Evie, 181
  17. Maisie, 165
  18. Lucy, 164 (tie)
  19. Mia, 164 (tie)
  20. Eilidh, 160
  21. Ellie, 159 (3-way tie)
  22. Ivy, 159 (3-way tie)
  23. Orla, 159 (3-way tie)
  24. Jessica, 150
  25. Harper, 144
  26. Maya, 134 (tie)
  27. Willow, 134 (tie)
  28. Georgia, 126
  29. Daisy, 123 (tie)
  30. Sofia, 123 (tie)
  31. Mila, 122
  32. Isabella, 121 (tie)
  33. Ruby, 121 (tie)
  34. Hannah, 119
  35. Skye, 118
  36. Sienna, 116
  37. Molly, 113
  38. Hallie, 111
  39. Bonnie, 108 (tie)
  40. Poppy, 108 (tie)
  41. Eva, 106
  42. Esme, 104
  43. Anna, 102 (3-way tie)
  44. Ayla, 102 (3-way tie)
  45. Erin, 102 (3-way tie)
  46. Callie, 98
  47. Zara, 92
  48. Layla, 91
  49. Emma, 90 (tie)
  50. Robyn, 90 (tie)

Boy Names

  1. Jack, 382 baby boys
  2. Noah, 337
  3. Leo, 289
  4. Oliver, 284
  5. Harris, 273
  6. Finlay, 255
  7. Lewis, 254
  8. James, 252
  9. Rory, 247
  10. Alexander, 240
  11. Brodie, 236
  12. Alfie, 224
  13. Charlie, 220
  14. Theo, 219
  15. Archie, 217
  16. Lucas, 214
  17. Mason, 205
  18. Finn, 197
  19. Thomas, 193
  20. Freddie, 192
  21. Max, 190
  22. Logan, 187
  23. Harry, 181
  24. Jacob, 176
  25. Blake, 159 (tie)
  26. Luca, 159 (tie)
  27. Oscar, 157
  28. Jude, 155
  29. William, 146
  30. Caleb, 140
  31. Roman, 138
  32. Cameron, 136
  33. Jaxon, 133
  34. Adam, 131
  35. Joshua, 130
  36. Ollie, 129 (tie)
  37. Tommy, 129 (tie)
  38. Daniel, 125 (tie)
  39. Ethan, 125 (tie)
  40. Harrison, 124
  41. Luke, 122
  42. Arthur, 121
  43. Muhammad, 120
  44. Jamie, 118 (tie)
  45. Liam, 118 (tie)
  46. Reuben, 112
  47. Arlo, 110
  48. Grayson, 103 (3-way tie)
  49. Hunter, 103 (3-way tie)
  50. Kai, 103 (3-way tie)

The fastest-rising names in the girls’ top 100 were Lyla, Blake, and Rowan.

The fastest-rising names in the boys’ top 100 were Carson, Struan, and Myles.

Other names that have seen higher usage recently include Maeva (influenced by Made in Chelsea actress Maeva D’Ascanio) and Connell (influenced by Normal People character Connell Waldron).

And what about the unique names?

Almost 12% of baby girls were given a name that no other girl was registered with in 2021. Almost 9% of boys had unique names for births last year.

Baby names bestowed just once in Scotland last year include…

Unique Girl NamesUnique Boy Names
Arlo-Moon, Aquamarine, Boglarka, Bryar-Loch, Cleagh, Cocohuay, Dervla, Diadem, Ember-Willow, Estrid, Falluin, Floraidh, Ghillie, Gwenno, Hessa, Humna, Iolanthe, Ischia, Jahanara, Juaa, Ketaki, Knoxie, Linaz, Liola-Sky, Mharli-Mae, Myfanwy, Nardos, Nymeria, Ocean-Bleu, Otterly, Pannavee, Paris-Sarah, Quinnie, Ribhinn, Ruoyi, Salka, Stuti, Thyra, Tifa, Unsa, Velvetjane, Wilda, Xiylo, Ying, Zanna, ZarnishArziki, Athilan, Bligh, Bruar, Caladh, Ciurar, Domhnall, Doski, Eloim, Ezra’banx, Firth, Fury, Gilmar, Guyan, Hanzala, Harcus, Ieuan, Ivaylo, Jockie, Joris, Kairimui, Kallikrates, Linstrum, Lorenzo-Moon, Marric, Massinissa, Nakoah-Knox, Nimrod, Oputjo, Otter, Parnaj, Prokop, Quanders, Rascal, Rhue, Simanga, Somhairle, Torben, Trix, Uziah-Nova, Vakaris, Wrath, Xanthus, Yuveer, Zander-Blu, Zebedee

Here are possible explanations/associations for some of the above:

  • Diadem, a type of crown
  • Ischia, an island near Naples
  • Nymeria, a direwolf from Game of Thrones
  • Ribhinn, a Scottish-Gaelic word (rìbhinn) meaning “maiden, girl”
  • Tifa, a character from the Final Fantasy video games
  • Kallikrates, a 5th-century BC Greek architect
  • Masinissa, a 2nd-century BC Numidian king
  • Somhairle, a 12th-century Norse-Gaelic king

Finally, here are Scotland’s 2020 rankings, if you’d like to compare last year to the year before.

Sources: Babies’ First Names 2021 – National Records of Scotland, Trends in baby names 2021 (PDF)

Image: Adapted from Flag of the United Kingdom (public domain)

Popular baby names in England and Wales (UK), 2020

Flag of the United Kingdom
Flag of the United Kingdom

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the most popular baby names in England and Wales last year — for the fifth year in a row — were Olivia and Oliver.

Here are the top 10 girl names and top 10 boy names of 2020:

Girl Names

  1. Olivia, 3,640 baby girls
  2. Amelia, 3,319
  3. Isla, 2,749
  4. Ava, 2,679
  5. Mia, 2,303
  6. Ivy, 2,166
  7. Lily, 2,150
  8. Isabella, 2,052
  9. Rosie, 2,035
  10. Sophia, 2,028

Boy Names

  1. Oliver, 4,225 baby boys
  2. George, 4,100
  3. Arthur, 4,052
  4. Noah, 4,042
  5. Muhammad, 3,710
  6. Leo, 3,314
  7. Oscar, 3,268
  8. Harry, 3,209
  9. Archie, 2,944
  10. Jack, 2,900

In the girls’ top 10, Ivy and Rosie replaced Grace and Freya.

In the boys’ top 10, Archie replaced Charlie. (No doubt Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to name their first child Archie in 2019 gave the name a boost, but Archie was on the rise in England and Wales long before it became a royal baby name.)

The fastest-rising names within the top 100 were…

  • Arabella, Mabel, Lyra, and Maeve (for girls)
  • Roman, Milo, Otis, and Myles (for boys)

(The popular British TV series Sex Education features main characters named Otis and Maeve.)

Here are the top 10 lists for England and Wales separately:

England, Top 10Wales, Top 10
Girl NamesOlivia, Amelia, Isla, Ava, Mia, Ivy, Lily, Isabella, Sophia, RosieOlivia, Amelia, Isla, Rosie, Ava, Lily, Mia, Ella, Willow, Freya
Boy NamesOliver, George, Arthur, Noah, Muhammad, Leo, Oscar, Harry, Archie, HenryNoah, Oliver, Leo, Theo, Finley, Arthur, George, Archie, Oscar, Charlie

Finally, here are some of the rare baby names from the other end of the rankings. Each one was given to just 3 babies in England and Wales last year.

Rare Girl NamesRare Boy Names
Aelfwynn, Aerith, Berfin, Boheme, Croia, Dorsa, Dwija, Elitsa, Fianna, Gwennie, Hecate, Hetvi, Isla-Bleu, Jamia, Junainah, Kimran, Liarna, Liliwen, Mehwish, Navara, Noorul, Otterly, Palma, Quratulain, Rimsha, Saltanat, Tafida, Tanzeela, Unaizah, Vesa, Wajan, ZimmalAlazar, Brychan, Cavanni, Corran, Dhvij, Ensar, Floki, Grantas, Gruff, Hendry, Huxon, Itanas, Jaivik, Kitson, Lindon, Mursalin, Nandor, Nyron, Oviyan, Phaedon, Qaim, Reggie-Blu, Riven, Romarni, Sejun, Tecwyn, Tomek, Udham, Vishwak, Wolfram, Xheison, Yuvi, Zennor

Liliwen comes from lili wen, one of the Welsh words for snowdrop (a small, white flower that blooms during the winter). The hyphenated variant Lili-wen was also given to three baby girls last year, bringing the grand total to six.

Also given to six baby girls last year? The name Eirlys, from eirlys, another Welsh word for snowdrop. :)

P.S. Want to see the 2019 rankings?

Sources: Baby names in England and Wales: 2020 (ONS), All data related to Baby names in England and Wales: 2020 (ONS), Snowdrops at Penrhyn Castle

Image: Adapted from Flag of the United Kingdom (public domain)