What Is Social Security Names Popularity?
Social Security names popularity refers to how often first names appear in U.S. Social Security card applications. The agency publishes annual lists showing the most common names for newborns. These lists help parents, researchers, and marketers understand naming trends.
How Popularity Is Measured
Popularity is based on the number of births registered with a given name each year. Names are ranked by count and shown per one million babies. The data comes from applications for Social Security numbers, which are required for many official records.
Trends and Historical Shifts
Names rise and fall with cultural influences, media, immigration, and family traditions. Some names stay popular for decades, while others spike briefly and then decline. Comparing past and present lists shows how tastes in baby names change over time.
For detailed rankings and historical data, see the official Social Security Administration baby names page at Social Security baby names.
