Top 10 Most Popular Male Names in the USA

Names are more than just labels—they're windows into cultural trends, generational shifts, and the values that shape American society. The most popular male names in the United States reveal fascinating patterns about what parents value, from timeless classics to modern innovations. In 2024, we see a fascinating blend of contemporary favorites and enduring traditional choices that reflect America's diverse cultural landscape.

The evolution of popular names tells a story of changing tastes, cultural influences, and the desire to give children names that are both meaningful and distinctive. From the classic names that dominated the 1990 census to today's trending choices, American naming patterns continue to evolve while honoring tradition.

Methodology

This ranking is based on the most recent data from the Social Security Administration and other official sources tracking baby name registrations in the United States for 2024. The rankings reflect the total number of male babies given each name during the year. Names are ranked by frequency of use, with the most commonly chosen names appearing at the top of the list. Historical comparisons reference the 1990 U.S. Census data for context.

List of Most Popular Male Names in the USA

10. William - Classic Royalty

William stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional names. This regal name, meaning "resolute protector," has maintained its popularity across generations, ranking in the top 10 in both 1990 and 2024. The name's royal associations—from William the Conqueror to modern British royalty—give it a sense of timeless elegance and strength.

Parents choosing William appreciate its classic sound, strong historical roots, and the flexibility of nicknames like Will, Bill, or Liam. The name's consistent popularity demonstrates that some names transcend trends, offering both familiarity and distinction. William's presence in the top 10 shows that traditional names with deep cultural roots continue to resonate with American families.

9. Lucas - Modern Classic

Lucas brings a fresh, international flair to the top 10, representing the growing influence of European names in American culture. This name, derived from the Latin word for "light," has steadily climbed in popularity over recent decades. Its appeal lies in its modern sound combined with classical roots, making it both contemporary and timeless.

The name's popularity reflects America's increasingly diverse cultural landscape, where names from various linguistic traditions find acceptance. Lucas offers parents a name that feels sophisticated yet approachable, with a strong sound that works well across different cultural contexts. Its rise to the top 10 demonstrates how international names are becoming mainstream choices for American parents.

8. Elijah - Biblical Strength

Elijah represents the continued popularity of biblical names with strong, meaningful origins. This Hebrew name, meaning "Yahweh is my God," has experienced a significant resurgence in recent years, moving from relative obscurity to top 10 status. The name's biblical significance and powerful sound appeal to parents seeking names with spiritual depth.

The name's popularity reflects a broader trend toward meaningful names with historical and religious significance. Elijah offers a distinctive sound while maintaining familiarity, and its association with the powerful biblical prophet gives it gravitas. The name's rise demonstrates how ancient names can feel fresh and relevant in modern times.

7. Mateo - Cultural Diversity

Mateo's appearance in the top 10 reflects America's rich cultural diversity and the growing influence of Hispanic naming traditions. This Spanish form of Matthew, meaning "gift of God," has surged in popularity as Hispanic communities continue to shape American culture. The name's melodic sound and positive meaning make it appealing across cultural backgrounds.

Mateo's success represents a broader trend of cross-cultural name adoption, where names from different linguistic traditions become mainstream choices. The name offers parents a distinctive option that honors cultural heritage while feeling modern and accessible. Its top 10 ranking demonstrates how America's multicultural identity is reflected in naming choices.

6. Henry - Timeless Elegance

Henry maintains its position as a beloved classic, demonstrating that traditional names never truly go out of style. This Germanic name, meaning "ruler of the home," has royal associations and a distinguished history. While it didn't appear in the 1990 top 10, Henry's current popularity shows how classic names cycle back into favor.

The name's appeal lies in its combination of strength and gentleness, making it suitable for both formal and casual contexts. Henry offers parents a name that feels both traditional and fresh, with a sophisticated sound that ages well. Its consistent popularity reflects a preference for names with historical depth and timeless appeal.

5. James - Enduring Classic

James represents the ultimate classic name, maintaining its popularity across generations. This biblical name, meaning "supplanter," has been a top choice for centuries and appeared as the number one name in the 1990 census. Its continued presence in the top 10 demonstrates remarkable staying power and universal appeal.

The name's versatility is part of its charm—it works equally well for a child, professional, or elder. James offers numerous nickname options (Jim, Jimmy, Jamie) while maintaining its formal dignity. The name's association with historical figures, from kings to presidents to literary characters, gives it gravitas and cultural significance that few names can match.

4. Theodore - Vintage Revival

Theodore represents the vintage name revival trend, where names from earlier eras experience renewed popularity. This Greek name, meaning "gift of God," has surged in recent years, moving from relative obscurity to top 10 status. The name's appeal lies in its sophisticated sound and the charming nickname options like Theo or Teddy.

The name's popularity reflects a broader cultural trend toward vintage aesthetics and names that feel both classic and distinctive. Theodore offers parents a name that stands out while maintaining historical credibility. Its association with American presidents and literary figures adds to its appeal, making it a choice that feels both traditional and fresh.

3. Oliver - Literary Charm

Oliver brings literary sophistication to the top 10, representing names with strong cultural associations. This name, derived from the Latin word for "olive tree," has experienced remarkable growth in popularity. Its appeal lies in its gentle yet strong sound and its association with beloved literary characters like Oliver Twist.

The name's popularity reflects a trend toward names that feel both classic and contemporary, with positive cultural associations. Oliver offers parents a name that's distinctive without being unusual, sophisticated without being pretentious. Its rise to the top 3 demonstrates how literary and cultural references continue to influence naming choices.

2. Noah - Biblical Modernity

Noah represents the perfect blend of biblical tradition and modern appeal, ranking as the second most popular male name in 2024. This Hebrew name, meaning "rest" or "comfort," has maintained consistent popularity, appealing to parents who want names with spiritual significance and contemporary sound.

The name's universal appeal lies in its simplicity, positive associations, and easy pronunciation across languages. Noah offers parents a name that feels both timeless and current, with strong biblical roots that give it depth. The name's consistent high ranking demonstrates how names with meaningful origins can achieve widespread popularity across diverse cultural backgrounds.

1. Liam - Modern Champion

Liam stands at the top of America's most popular male names in 2024, representing the triumph of modern naming trends. This Irish short form of William, meaning "resolute protector," has experienced explosive growth, rising from relative obscurity to become the nation's favorite. The name's appeal lies in its combination of strength, simplicity, and international flair.

The name's success reflects broader cultural trends toward shorter, punchier names with strong sounds and positive associations. Liam offers parents a name that feels both distinctive and familiar, modern yet with traditional roots. Its Irish origins and easy pronunciation make it appealing across diverse American communities, while its association with strength and protection gives it meaningful depth.

Summary of the Top 10 Most Popular Male Names in the USA

Conclusion

The most popular male names in the USA reveal a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. While modern favorites like Liam and Noah lead the rankings, classic names like James and William maintain their appeal, demonstrating that American parents value both contemporary trends and timeless choices.

The diversity of names in the top 10—from biblical classics to international favorites to vintage revivals—reflects America's multicultural identity and evolving cultural landscape. These names represent more than just trends; they're choices that parents make with care, seeking names that will serve their children well throughout their lives. Whether drawn to modern sounds, traditional elegance, or cultural heritage, American parents continue to find meaningful names that reflect their values and aspirations for their children.