Every May, name lovers and expecting parents eagerly await the release of the Social Security Administration’s annual baby name data—and 2024’s list is finally here! Whether you’re hunting for the perfect name or simply fascinated by trends, the Top 10 names offer a snapshot of what’s resonating most with parents across the country right now.
This year’s top names? Surprisingly familiar. The 2024 Top 10 list holds steady, but even subtle shifts can reveal a lot about where naming trends are headed. Let’s break it down.
Here are the top 10 baby names of 2024:
Top 10 Girl Names of 2024:
- Olivia
- Emma
- Amelia
- Charlotte
- Mia
- Sophia
- Isabella
- Evelyn
- Ava
- Sofia
Top 10 Boy Names of 2024:
- Liam
- Noah
- Oliver
- Theodore
- James
- Henry
- Mateo
- Elijah
- Lucas
- William
Quick Reactions & Name Insights
Olivia
Still queen of the chart, Olivia takes the crown for the sixth consecutive year. With soft vowels, a sleek “v,” and literary roots, Olivia checks all the boxes. The name traces back to olive, a symbol of peace and hope since biblical times—remember the dove in Noah’s Ark? Shakespeare popularized the name in Twelfth Night, evolving earlier forms like Olive and Oliva into the elegant, flowing Olivia we know today.
Liam
Reigning at No. 1 for eight years running, Liam shows no signs of slowing down. It’s short, strong, and rooted in the classic William—a name meaning “resolute protector.” Liam also fits today’s love for nickname-style full names, along with Noah, Eli, and Leo.
Emma
A longtime favorite, Emma holds steady at No. 2. Elegant and easy to pronounce across languages, Emma comes from the Germanic root irmin, meaning “whole” or “universal.” It’s a timeless pick with literary cred—Jane Austen fans know her well.
Noah
No. 2 among boys, Noah keeps its place for the eighth year straight. A soft, soulful name with ancient roots, Noah means rest—and feels particularly peaceful today. The biblical Noah was known for wisdom, leadership, and survival, adding quiet strength to this gentle choice.
Sofia
Here’s the only true newcomer to this year’s Top 10—though it’s more of a spelling shift than a fresh arrival. Sofia (up two spots) joins Sophia in the top ranks, while Sophia drops slightly to No. 6. Both names mean wisdom, and when combined, they actually outpace Olivia in total usage—over 20,000 babies were named Sophia or Sofia in 2024, compared to under 15,000 Olivias!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re considering a chart-topper or searching for something rare, tracking the Top 10 baby names helps you understand what today’s parents are loving—and where trends might head next. While this year’s top names barely budged, the full list tells a more dynamic story.
Here’s a teaser: one of this year’s biggest climbers is Ailany, which soared up the chart by 754 spots! Intrigued? Don’t miss my 2024 Baby Name Trends article (coming soon), where I’ll dive into rising stars, surprise fallers, and subtle shifts you won’t want to overlook.
🎯 Remember: The best name for your baby is the one that speaks to you. Popularity fades—but meaning, memory, and love last forever.
Join the Conversation:
Are you leaning toward a Top 10 baby name or looking for something more offbeat? Let’s talk about it in the comments! And if you’re stuck, check out my guide:
👉 Solving the Baby Name Puzzle: How Popular is Too Popular?
Or explore my custom name consultation packages for ideas tailored to your style, preferences, and family story.
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