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
BoyStrong-willed warrior and protector
Noah
BoyRest, comfort, wanderer
Oliver
BoyOlive tree, symbolizing peace
James
BoySupplanter, one who follows
Elijah
BoyMy God is Yahweh
William
BoyResolute protector, strong-willed warrior
Henry
BoyRuler of the home, estate ruler
Lucas
BoyLight-giving, luminous
Benjamin
BoySon of the right hand
Theodore
BoyGift of God, divine gift
Jack
BoyGod is gracious
Levi
BoyJoined, attached, pledged
Alexander
BoyDefender of the people
Mason
BoyOne who works with stone
Ethan
BoyStrong, firm, enduring
Daniel
BoyGod is my judge
Jacob
BoySupplanter, holder of the heel
Michael
BoyWho is like God?
Logan
BoyLittle hollow, descendant of the warrior
Jackson
BoySon of Jack, God has been gracious
Sebastian
BoyVenerable, revered
Aiden
BoyLittle fire, fiery one
Owen
BoyYoung warrior, well-born, noble
Samuel
BoyHeard by God, name of God
Ryan
BoyLittle king, descendant of the king
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, symbol of peace and beauty
Emma
GirlWhole, universal, complete
Charlotte
GirlFree woman, petite and feminine
Amelia
GirlIndustrious, striving, work of the Lord
Sophia
GirlWisdom, skill, intelligence
Mia
GirlMine, beloved, wished-for child
Isabella
GirlDevoted to God, pledged to God
Ava
GirlLife, living one, bird-like
Evelyn
GirlWished for child, life, living
Luna
GirlMoon, divine light
Harper
GirlHarp player, minstrel
Sofia
GirlWisdom, knowledge, insight
Camila
GirlYoung ceremonial attendant, noble
Eleanor
GirlBright, shining one, sun ray
Elizabeth
GirlMy God is abundance, pledged to God
Violet
GirlPurple flower, modesty and faithfulness
Scarlett
GirlRed, scarlet colored, bright
Emily
GirlIndustrious, eager, rival
Hazel
GirlThe hazel tree, light brown color
Nora
GirlHonor, light, woman of honor
Avery
UnisexRuler of the elves, wise counselor
Lily
GirlPure, passion, rebirth, lily flower
Chloe
GirlBlooming, young green shoot, fertility
Penelope
GirlWeaver, with a web over her face
Layla
GirlNight, dark beauty, born at night
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.