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
Theodore
BoyGift of God, divine gift
James
BoySupplanter, one who follows
Henry
BoyRuler of the home, estate ruler
Mateo
BoyGift of God, devoted to God
Elijah
BoyMy God is Yahweh
Lucas
BoyLight-giving, luminous
William
BoyResolute protector, strong-willed warrior
Benjamin
BoySon of the right hand
Levi
BoyJoined, attached, pledged
Ezra
BoyHelper, aid, protector
Sebastian
BoyVenerable, revered
Jack
BoyGod is gracious
Daniel
BoyGod is my judge
Samuel
BoyHeard by God, name of God
Michael
BoyWho is like God?
Ethan
BoyStrong, firm, enduring
Asher
BoyHappy, blessed, fortunate one
John
BoyGod is gracious, gift of God
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, symbol of peace and beauty
Emma
GirlWhole, universal, complete
Amelia
GirlIndustrious, striving, work of the Lord
Charlotte
GirlFree woman, petite and feminine
Mia
GirlMine, beloved, wished-for child
Sophia
GirlWisdom, skill, intelligence
Isabella
GirlDevoted to God, pledged to God
Evelyn
GirlWished for child, life, living
Ava
GirlLife, living one, bird-like
Sofia
GirlWisdom, knowledge, insight
Camila
GirlYoung ceremonial attendant, noble
Harper
GirlHarp player, minstrel
Luna
GirlMoon, divine light
Eleanor
GirlBright, shining one, sun ray
Violet
GirlPurple flower, modesty and faithfulness
Aurora
GirlDawn, goddess of the morning
Elizabeth
GirlMy God is abundance, pledged to God
Eliana
GirlHazel
GirlThe hazel tree, light brown color
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, eager, rival
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.