How Has the Popularity of Baby Names in the US Changed?

The popularity of baby names in the US has remained relatively constant for males, with Jacob being the most popular name for boys each year from 1999 through 2012. Before 1999, Michael was the top boy's name for 38 consecutive years. The popularity of female names tends to change more often. Four different girl's names — Emily, Emma, Sophia and Isabella — held the top spot in at least one of the six years from 2007-2012. This is a relatively new trend. Mary ranked number one for US girls every year from 1913-1946 and again from 1953-1961 after six years of coming in second behind Linda.

More about babies in the US:

• The US has the third-highest birth rate in the world, after China and India, and these rankings have been projected to stay in place until 2050.


• In 1970, the average age for a first-time mother was 21. By 2000, it had increased to 25.


• Christmas Day, 25 December, is the least common date of birth in the US, excluding 29 February, which occurs only during leap years.