Top 100 Baby Names of 2026
The most popular baby names this year, with analysis of what's rising and falling.
Every year, the Social Security Administration releases data on the most popular baby names in the United States. For 2026, we see some exciting shifts. Classic names continue their reign, but fresh choices are breaking into the top ranks. Here is our breakdown of the top 100 names for boys and girls.
Top 25 Boy Names
The boys' list continues to be dominated by Liam and Noah, which have held the top two spots for several years. Theodore and Henry continue their climb, reflecting a broader trend toward classic, distinguished names.
Liam
BoyIrish form of William, from Germanic meaning 'resolute protector'.
Noah
BoyRest, comfort, and consolation. Biblical figure symbolizing peace and new beginnings.
Oliver
BoyOlive tree, symbolizing peace
Theodore
BoyGift of God; divine present or blessing.
James
BoySupplanter. Derived from the Hebrew name Yaakov, symbolizing one who follows or takes the place of another.
Henry
BoyEstate ruler or ruler of the household. Symbolizes leadership and authority.
Mateo
BoyGift of God, devoted to God
Elijah
BoyMy God is Yahweh; Hebrew name combining 'God' and 'Yahweh,' expressing devotion.
Lucas
BoyFrom Latin 'Lucius', meaning 'light-giving' or 'luminous'.
William
BoyResolute protector. Represents a strong, determined guardian.
Benjamin
BoySon of the right hand or son of my days. Symbolizes strength, wisdom, and being favored.
Levi
BoyJoined, attached, pledged
Ezra
BoyHelper, aid, protector
Sebastian
BoyVenerable, revered
Jack
BoyGod is gracious. Originally a diminutive of John, symbolizing divine favor.
Daniel
BoyGod is my judge. Expresses trust in divine justice and wisdom.
Samuel
BoyGod has heard or his name is God. Symbolizes spiritual connection and divine favor.
Michael
BoyWho is like God? A powerful theological name expressing incomparability to the divine.
Ethan
BoyStrong and firm. Represents solidity, reliability, and strength.
Asher
BoyHappy, blessed, fortunate one
John
BoyGod is gracious. A timeless name expressing divine favor and mercy.
Hudson
BoySon of Hugh, heart, mind, spirit
Luca
BoyBringer of light, man from Lucania
Leo
BoyLion, brave and bold
Elias
BoyThe Lord is my God
Top 25 Girl Names
Olivia continues to lead the girls' list, followed closely by Emma and Charlotte. Luna and Aurora are among the fastest risers, showing a strong preference for names with celestial and nature-inspired meanings.
Olivia
GirlOlive tree. Latin origin representing peace, wisdom, and fruitfulness.
Emma
GirlWhole or universal. Symbolizes completeness and wholeness.
Amelia
GirlIndustrious or striving; from Germanic Amalia meaning work
Charlotte
GirlFree woman. Feminine form of Charles, symbolizing freedom and independence.
Mia
GirlMine or beloved; a cherished one.
Sophia
GirlWisdom. Represents intellect, knowledge, and spiritual insight.
Isabella
GirlDevoted to God. Represents faith, commitment, and spiritual devotion.
Evelyn
GirlWished for child. Originally a surname meaning desired or longed for.
Ava
GirlPossibly from Latin 'avis' (bird) or Germanic 'Aveline'.
Sofia
GirlWisdom, knowledge, insight
Camila
GirlYoung ceremonial attendant, noble
Harper
GirlHarp player, minstrel
Luna
GirlMoon, divine light
Eleanor
GirlFrom Old French/Germanic roots, possibly meaning 'other' or 'foreign'.
Violet
GirlPurple flower, modesty and faithfulness
Aurora
GirlDawn, goddess of the morning
Elizabeth
GirlGod's oath or consecrated to God. Represents divine commitment and holiness.
Eliana
GirlHazel
GirlThe hazel tree; symbolizing protection and wisdom.
Chloe
GirlBlooming, young green shoot, fertility
Ellie
GirlBright shining one, light
Nora
GirlHonor, light, woman of honor
Gianna
GirlGod is gracious, the Lord's grace
Lily
GirlPure, passion, rebirth, lily flower
Emily
GirlIndustrious or rival, representing determination and effort.
Key Trends for 2026
- Classic revival: Traditional names like Henry, Theodore, Eleanor, and Josephine continue climbing.
- Nature names: Ivy, Willow, River, Sage, and Aurora reflect a deep connection to the natural world.
- Short and sweet: One and two-syllable names like Kai, Mia, Leo, and Ivy are increasingly favored.
- Gender-neutral growth: Unisex names like Avery, Riley, Rowan, and Quinn are at all-time highs.
- Cultural diversity: Names like Mateo, Camila, Kai, and Amara reflect America's multicultural identity.
Whether you are looking for a name that's right on trend or something timelessly classic, our name search tool can help you find the perfect fit. Browse all boy names or all girl names to explore more options.