Discover Popular Baby Names With This Free Tool

maternity | Newborn | Senior | Milestone Photographer - Charlotte, nc

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Baby names often hold a special excitement for my Charlotte, NC, clients as they prepare for their newborn’s arrival. Whether you’re looking for something classic, trendy, or entirely unique, understanding the popularity of a name can be a big part of the decision-making process. A fantastic resource to help you with this is the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website.  

newborn baby brooks wrapped in a neutral brown wrap in a basket with a name circle beside him highlighting his baby name and as a sentimental keepsake prop for the baby photo session

For my family we used this exact method to narrow down options and decide if a name would stay on our list.  Many of you may know that my husband’s name is Michael and, of course, mine is Tobi – hence the Tobi’s Timeless Treasures Photography business name.  The name Michael being super popular and always at the top of the list and mine barely ever making it on the list even in the 1% most years shows you just how much range there is in name usage.  Personally, I didn’t want a name for my kids that was too popular but also not too unique either.  So we used the site to see the trends and add or take away based on our own personal preferences.  Here’s how this simple tool can provide fascinating insights into baby name trends and help you choose the perfect name for your little one.

Why Use the SSA Website for Baby Names?

The SSA has been collecting baby name data since the late 19th century, making it a treasure trove of information. Each year, they compile a list of the most popular baby names in the United States based on Social Security card applications. The data includes:

  • The top 1,000 baby names for boys and girls.
  • Trends over time, showing how a name’s popularity has changed.
  • State-by-state breakdowns for localized trends.

Whether you’re curious about how unique your baby’s name is or want to avoid choosing a name that’s climbing the popularity charts, the SSA’s baby name tool is invaluable.

How to Use the SSA Baby Name Tool

Using the Social Security website’s baby name section is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

  1. Visit the SSA Baby Names Page Head to www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames. This is the official page dedicated to baby name data.
  2. Search for a Specific Name Enter the name you’re curious about, select a time range (e.g., the past decade or as far back as the 1880s), and see how its popularity has risen or fallen.
  3. Explore Top Names by Year Want to know the most popular names of 2023? Or how naming trends looked in the 1990s? Browse the SSA’s annual lists for a fascinating trip through time.
  4. Check State Data Curious about regional trends? The SSA also offers state-specific popularity rankings, so you can see what names are most beloved where you live.
  5. Discover Unique Names If you’re worried about your chosen name being too common, use the data to explore less popular options that still resonate with you.

Why Baby Name Trends Are Fascinating

Baby name trends are a reflection of culture, history, and even pop culture influences. For example:

TV Shows & Movies: 

My house has a great example of this one!  While I can promise you that we didn’t name “our Chandler” after the famous “friends” character, I can also guarantee you we have been asked many times if he was.  And, even my lifelong bestie calls him Bing sometimes instead of Chandler!  So yes, what is watched/listened to definitely affects trends!  The popularity of names like “Arya” or “Elsa” surged after hit TV shows and films.

Historical Figures: 

Names like “Lincoln” or “Eleanor” often see a boost in popularity during cultural moments tied to historical appreciation. And a lot of times names like these also fall into the lifelong uses. “Family names” always have to start somewhere, eight?

Timeless Classics vs. Modern Baby Name Picks: 

You can easily spot enduring classics like “James” or “Elizabeth” alongside more modern, creative names like “Zayden” or “Nova.”  And insert the Michael of every generation just to make sure the hubs stays up there too! And, yep, I am aware you probably knew of….or had a….dog name Tobi/Toby/Tobie at some point in your life. It is one step up from being named Fido sometimes!

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Baby Name

Balance Popularity and Uniqueness 

A highly popular name might make your child feel like they’re one of many, while an extremely rare name might lead to mispronunciations. Finding a middle ground can be ideal. We really tried with our kiddos to stay out of the top 100 but insert the irony that there are 3 girls named Emmerson in the 5th grade class at my daughters school. So guess we lost that one for now!

Consider Longevity 

Think about how the name will age. A trendy name might feel dated in a few decades, while a classic name tends to remain timeless.

Say It Out Loud 

Practice saying the full name, including potential nicknames, to make sure it flows well. I loved the name Piper for our daughter and honestly I still do LOVE that name, but mixing it with the middle name I also wanted make for weird initials so it was a no go for us.

Check Cultural Significance 

Some names carry special meanings or associations that could add depth and significance to your choice.

newborn baby wrapped in basket posed with hands on edge of basket during his lifestyle newborn session in the south charlotte nc area

Start Exploring Today

Choosing a baby name is a deeply personal journey, but having the right tools can make it even more rewarding. The Social Security Administration’s baby name database is a fantastic way to explore trends, discover new ideas, and gain confidence in your decision.

So, whether you’re settling on a name that feels just right or still weighing your options, take a moment to visit the SSA’s website. You might be surprised by what you learn—and find the perfect name for your little one along the way!

While planning for names and checking all the “must” do’s off your list don’t forget to make sure to book your Maternity and Newborn Portrait session! These moments are truly fleeting and you will want to have these memories to treasure for a lifetime – I promise!

Looking to book a newborn or maternity session to make sure you document this journey. I’m your gal.

Feel free to reach out or check my site for more information on booking a session!

Collage of infant images from a waxhaw nc studio newborn session where baby was dressed or wrapped in blue tones of the ocean