Utah baby names have always been considered a little bit surprising.

At first glance, there’s no reason Utah should be so very different from the rest of the country. True, it’s part of the Mountain West, a place where the names topping the popularity charts often vary compared to, say, New Jersey or Texas.

It’s worth noting that Utah has the highest birth rate in the country. Lots of little kids might translate to more pressure to find a stand-out name.

But the state is sort of middle-of-the-road in lots of other respects. Utah’s population, a little more than three million, makes it the 30th most populous state. It is pretty sparsely populated: the 13th largest by area, but the 11th least dense. Salt Lake City and the surrounding north-central part of the state is home to around two-thirds of all Utahns. 

Indigenous peoples, including the Navajo, Puebloans, and the Ute, long called the area home. During the 1500s, the first European explorers arrived from Spain. Few stayed, however. It wasn’t until the Mormon settlers arrived, fleeing persecution, that significant settlements by those of European descent developed. 

Here’s where the story gets interesting. 

It would take until 1896 for Utah to be admitted as a US state, the 45th. That’s because those early Mormon settlers practiced polygamy. Statehood followed only after the church banned the practice. 

Today about 75% of Utahns are white, with around 15% Latino or Hispanic, and much smaller African-American and Asian populations.

Around half of all Utahns today identify as Mormon, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is headquartered in Salt Lake City, complete with a historic temple and visitors’ center.

So the Beehive State boasts a particularly interesting history, defined by the church’s history and continuing influence. 

Combined with a strong independent streak famous in the Mountain Weest, Utah parents tend to go their own way.

Scholarly research bears this out. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – LDS or Mormons in everyday speech – do prefer unusual, even unique names. Jennifer R. Mansfield’s graduate thesis “It’s Wraylynn – With A W”: Distinctive Mormon Naming Practices highlights cultural reasons this holds true.

UNIQUELY UTAH

Casual observers and academics alike have identified a mix of trends and practices that serve as hallmarks of Utah baby names:

• The most obvious: Nephi and other distinctive names related to figures from the Book of Mormon and/or LDS chuch history.
• Spelling changes are popular everywhere, but particularly favored in Utah, like substituting a Y for Aspyn rather than Aspen.
• Prefixes, like the Mac/Mc of Mackenzie leading to McKay, McCall, and McKell, are also common. Is McKell pronounced more like Michael or McCall? It’s tough to say. 
• Suffixes also factor in, so Oakley ranks in the state’s Top 100, but choices like Oaklee, Oakleigh, and Oaklie are likely to outperform the US data.
• Just plain unusual names – place names, virtues and other word names can gain traction in the state in a way that’s slightly less true than in, say, Colorado or Minnesota.

UTAH AS A BABY NAME

The state’s name comes directly from the Ute people, who lived in the Great Basin and Colorado Plains area for centuries. In their language, they refer to themselves as “the people.” 

Some suggest that Utah means “people of the mountains,” a name other tribes used. There is an Apache word meaning “high,” and seems to track with that meaning. Spanish explorers heard it as Yuta, which eventually became Utah. 

It’s been used in small numbers for boys over the years. It first appeared in the US data in 1918, with 7 births. As of 2025, 9 boys were named Utah.

Folk singer and activist Utah Philips’ long career started in the 1960s. He was born Bruce – in Ohio – but spent his teenage and young adult years around Salt Lake City.

One familiar use of the name: in 1991, Keanu Reeves played Johnny Utah in Point Break, a surfing action flick. The movie helped launch Bodhi, the name of Patrick Swayze’s character, and boosted Tyler for a girl, thanks to Lori Petty’s role.

While Utah never quite caught on, it has more potential than some state names.

TOP TEN BOY NAMES IN UTAH

10. BROOKS (#64 in the US)

The biggest overperformance among Utah names for boys? Rugged, nature-surname name Brooks surges into the state’s Top Ten.

9. JAMES (#6 in the US)

Utah baby names have a reputation for being outlandish, but the classics fare well in the state, too.

8. WILLIAM (#9 in the US)

Another traditional name in the Utah and US Top Tens.

7. HUDSON (#17 in the US)

A favorite that rises to the top of many state’s popularity lists, especially when a small number of Spanish speakers means that choices like Mateo fall back farther on the charts.

6. HENRY (#5 in the US)

One more classic. 

5. NOAH (#2 in the US)

Noah falls back slightly in the Beehive State.

4. JACK (#15 in the US)

Jack advances to the state’s Top Ten.

3. THEODORE (#4 in the US)

Consistent with national trends.

2. LIAM (#1 in the US)

We tend to think of Liam as an Irish nickname for William. That’s true, but it’s also a favorite among Spanish-speaking families, which helps push this name to the top spot in much of the US. Even in Utah, it still ranks #2.

1. OLIVER (#3 in the US)

Just a slight shift from the US rankings, Oliver fares better in Utah, possibly because it feels traditional but still a little bit different, at least compared to evergreen William, John, and James.

TOP 100 UTAH BOY NAMES

1. Oliver
2. Liam
3. Theodore
4. Jack
5. Noah
6. Henry
7. Hudson
8. William
9. James
10. Brooks
11. Miles
12. Thomas
13. Wesley
14. Cooper
15. Levi
16. Beau
17. Leo
18. Owen
19. Maverick
20. Benjamin
21. Ezra
22. Lucas
23. Luca
24. Mateo
25. Rowan
26. Luke
27. Jackson
28. Samuel
29. Logan
30. Asher
31. Atlas
32. Milo
33. Elijah
34. Lincoln
35. Calvin*
36. Sebastian
37. Bennett
38. Santiago
39. Wyatt
40. Ethan
41. Beckham*
42. Daniel
43. Walker
44. Weston
45. Elias
46. Grayson
47. Archer
48. Enzo
49. Theo
50. Hayes*
51. Isaac
52. Matthew
53. August
54. Charles
55. Jett
56. Mason
57. David
58. Dean*
59. Roman
60. Arthur
61. John
62. Everett
63. Caleb
64. Graham*
65. Kai
66. Michael
67. Gabriel
68. Jacob
69. Stetson*
70. Sawyer*
71. Alexander
72. Aiden
73. Andrew
74. Charlie*
75. Carter
76. Anthony
77. Thiago
78. Dawson*
79. River*
80. Callum*
81. Colter*
82. Luka
83. Nolan
84. Waylon
85. Crew*
86. Harvey*
87. Julian
88. Knox*
89. Benson*
90. Axel
91. Eli
92. Maxwell*
93. Beckett*
94. Ian
95. Joseph
96. Peter*
97. Tate*
98. Finn*
99. Ryder*
100. Silas

* indicates the name does not appear in the current US Top 100

TOP TEN GIRL NAMES IN UTAH

10. LILY (#18 in the US)

A favorite across the US, Lily leaps into Utah’s Top Ten.

9. LAINEY (#30 in the US)

A fast-rising favorite with Western appeal, Lainey outperforms in the state.

8. ELEANOR (#12 in the US)

Just like James and William, Eleanor is an enduring classic Utah parents love, disproving the notion that every family is choosing some form of Oaklee. 

7. HAZEL (#21 in the US)

Vintage nature name Hazel surges to the top of the charts.

6. AMELIA (#4 in the US)

Traditional Amelia falls back just a few spots.

5. EVELYN (#8 in the US)

While Amelia falls, Evelyn climbs.

4. OLIVIA (#1 in the US)

Oliver might leap to the top spot, but Olivia falls back a bit.

3. LUCY (#25 in the US)

It’s not clear why Lucy is so beloved in the state, but it’s ranked in the state’s Top Ten since 2016. This is the highest Lucy has charted – so far.

2. CHARLOTTE (#2 in the US)

Charlotte holds steady.

1. EMMA (#3 in the US) 

Long-time national #1 pick Emma is still on top here.

TOP 100 UTAH GIRL NAMES 

1. Emma
2. Charlotte
3. Lucy
4. Olivia
5. Evelyn
6. Amelia
7. Hazel
8. Eleanor
9. Lainey
10. Lily
11. Ivy
12. Mia
13. Violet
14. Millie
15. Nora
16. Scottie*
17. Ellie
18. Harper
19. Chloe
20. Sophia
21. Ruby
22. Isla
23. Ava
24. Oakley*
25. Sophie
26. Jane*
27. Grace
28. Daisy
29. Isabella
30. Aurora
31. Elizabeth
32. Claire
33. Eden
34. Scarlett
35. Aria
36. Georgia
37. Juniper
38. Penelope
39. Ella
40. Willow
41. Navy*
42. Ailany
43. Clara
44. Lyla
45. Remi*
46. Avery
47. Emery
48. Sadie
49. Sage*
50. Stella
51. Eloise
52. Luna
53. Nova
54. Alice
55. Josie
56. Camila
57. Hadley*
58. Elena
59. Elsie*
60. Emily
61. Maeve
62. Paisley
63. Eliana
64. Delilah
65. Mabel*
66. Emilia
67. Hallie*
68. Layla
69. Margot*
70. Zoe
71. Abigail
72. Olive*
73. Piper*
74. Sofia
75. Stevie*
76. Victoria
77. June*
78. Sloane*
79. Vivian
80. Blakely*
81. Iris
82. Lydia
83. Jade
84. Valentina
85. Zoey
86. Hannah
87. Mila
88. Amara*
89. Adeline
90. Phoebe*
91. Ruth*
92. Gracie*
93. Madison
94. Wren*
95. Autumn
96. Brooklyn*
97. Charlie*
98. Kennedy
99. Margaret*
100. Maya

* indicates the name does not appear in the current US Top 100

DISTINCTIVE UTAH PLACE NAMES

BRYCE

A modern favorite, Bryce Canyon National Park makes this a natural Utah baby name. It’s named for Ebenezer Bryce, an early homesteader.

ENOCH

A tiny town, Enoch is named for an Old Testament figure. But it’s a very Utah place name because it’s (probably) actually named for the Order of Enoch, a splinter group from the LDS church that opposed plural marriage. 

LAYTON

First settled in the 1850s and named Kaysville, the current name is a nod to early church leader Christopher Layton.

NEPHI

A Book of Mormon figure, Nephi has always been used in small numbers for boys. It echoes current favorites like Levi.

OGDEN

As in the city, named for Hudson’s Bay Company leader Peter Skene Ogden or possibly explorer Samuel Ogden.

ZION

Inspired by Zion National Park, originally known as Mukuntuweap National Monument. The name change acknowledges the significance of Zion as a concept to the LDS church. Founder Joseph Smith often referred to America as Zion.

NAMES FROM UTAH HISTORY AND SYMBOLS

ASPEN

The quaking aspen is the state’s tree.

BEA, BEE, DEBORAH, HONEY, MELISSA

Utah is the Beehive State. A beehive features on the flag, and the western honey bee is the state’s insect. But the connection goes deeper than that. In the Book of Mormon, Deseret means “honeybee.” That makes it a spiritually significant choice, but bees also symbolize hard work. That speaks to early settlers’ tireless efforts to build a community in a harsh environment.

COPPER

Inspired by the state mineral.

COSMO

Let’s talk about BYU cougar names. Brigham Young University sports teams first adopted two baby cougars as mascots – Cleo and Tarbo. The kittens eventually escaped from their campus home, an event immortalized in the school’s fight song with the line “the cougars are out.” The official mascot has been called Cosmo since 1953.

JAZZ

Salt Lake City is home to the NBA’s Utah Jazz. It doesn’t feel like a logical choice for the state, and it’s not. The team started out as the New Orleans Jazz, but re-located north in 1979 and kept the name. Now it does feel connected to the state. 

LILY 

The Sego Lily is the state flower, and possibly one reason Lily ranks in the Top Ten names for a baby girl in Utah.

TOPAZ

The state’s gemstone.

FAMOUS UTAHNS

BRIGHAM

As in the second president of the LDS church, the first governor of the Utah territory, and the namesake of Brigham Young University. BYU means that his name endures in the public imagination as one of the most obvious Utah baby names. 

HARVEY

BYU grad Harvey Fletcher developed stereophonic sound and the first vinyl recordings. The Utahn wasn’t necessarily in it for the music. His area of research was speech and hearing, and he also developed an early electronic hearing aid.

LORETTA

Oscar- and Emmy-winning actress Loretta Young was born in Salt Lake City in 1913.

OTTO

Salt Lake City is also the birthplace of Otto Harbach, one of the early Broadway lyricists to make his mark. Among his many compositions? “Smoke Gets in Yoyr Eyes.”

ROSEANNE

Actress and comedian Roseanne Barr was born in the state.

WILFORD

One more actor: Wilford Brimley, star of hit shows like Our House and The Waltons, as well as movies like Cocoon and The Natural. Brimley wasn’t just Utah-born, he considered the state home throughout his life.

Do you have any favorite Utah baby names? What would you add to this list?

The post Popular in Utah Baby Names appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays. We’re relying on thoughtful comments from the community to help expectant parents narrow down their name decisions. Thank you in advance for sharing your insight! To have your question answered publicly on the site, email appmtn (at) gmail. Looking for your own private #namehelp post for your eyes only? Order one here.

A LONG LIST OF BOY NAMES

Layna writes:

Our daughter is Avery Elizabeth. It’s always been one of my favorite names, and I like the way it goes with our short last name, which sounds like the woman’s name Claire.

We are now due with a boy in August and can’t seem to choose. Lots of names are okay, but none really stand out.

Here is the list we’re working from:

• Beau
• Bennett
• Caleb
• Carter
• Easton
• Ethan
• Hudson
• Jace
• Levi
• Tate
• Walker
• Wyatt

We will probably use the middle name Robert, which is my husband’s middle name and his dad’s name.

I think what bothers me is that our last name can be hard. Sometimes it sounds like our daughter’s name is Avery-Claire, first and middle names. I’m not sure if a short first name would really work for us, even though I think we both like them.

Can you help us go through our list?

Please read on for my reponse and leave your thoughtful suggestions in the comments.

EVALUATING NAMES FOR AVERY’S BROTHER

Abby replies:

Congratulations on your new son!

Going from “names we both like” to “one name we’re giving to an actual human being” can be challenging.

Sometimes we automatically filter through all the questions in our heads: how does this sound with our last name? Do we like the image it presents? Will this name age well? We don’t have to process our decision because the right name just clicks. And that’s magic!

It sounds like that’s what happened with your daughter’s name.

But it doesn’t always work that way.

Let’s see if we can figure out what those questions and filters ought to be and use them to choose a great name for your son.

What criteria have you already established?

• Goes with your short last name, sounds-like-Claire
• Matches sister Avery Elizabeth
• Works with middle name Robert

It sounds like that first concern is most present in your mind, so I’ll start evaluating your list against that question: how well does any potential name for Avery’s brother work with your surname?

EVALUATING YOUR CURRENT LIST

BEAU, JACE, TATE

There’s no reason you can’t use a one-syllable first name with a short last name. Just ask Brad Pitt. But it’s a very strong style choice, and it’s not for everyone. I do really like Jace with your surname, sounds-like-Claire. But I’m probably going to put these near the bottom of the list, as a little bit of variety in terms of syllables is most people’s preference. If you’re divided or uncertain, let’s move on.

CARTER, CALEB

These are great choices with your surname, but again, alliteration is very much a personal preference. If you love the crisp repeat of Carter sounds-like-Claire, go for it. But I’m guessing you’re hesitant, since they’re still on your long list. I do think you might end with another Avery-Claire situation, with others tending to use your child’s first and last name together, if only because it’s such a memorable, fun sound. Again, I’m moving these to the bottom not because they don’t work, but because they might not work well for you.

LEVI, ETHAN

These are more traditional given names with Hebrew roots and Old Testament backstories. I like them both with Avery, particularly Ethan. And I really like Ethan with your surname, too.

BENNETT, EASTON, HUDSON, WALKER, WYATT

A big chunk of your list consists of 21st century favorites. They feel traditional(ish), but they’re not the kinds of names we were hearing frequently in the 1990s. I think all of these work really well as names for Avery’s brother, and they’re all nicely matched with your surname, too. I really like Walker and Wyatt, but that might be more about personal preference than any actual criteria. When I pair them up with Robert as a middle name, that shifts my opinion slightly, and I think Bennett might be the best choice.

Overall, I can see your dilemma: most of these names have potential!

I’m going to choose my three favorites, and then turn it over to the community for more input.

Ethan Robert sounds-like-Claire is my favorite. It’s strong, traditional, current. I love Bennett, too, and I think Bennett Robert is handsome. For a dark horse entry, let’s go with Jace Robert. Yes, a short first with a short last name isn’t for everyone, but I do think it works nicely in this case. And I like the way Avery and Jace sound together.

Readers, over to you. Can you suggest names for Avery’s brother – either from their short list or something that comes to mind?

The post Strong Names for Avery’s Brother appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

Looking for even more deep dives on all the names and name talk you love? Join us on the AM Baby Names Patreon. Join for free to keep up with featured names. Upgrade and unlock even more great content, like this list of 100 Cool, Edgy, Middle Names to Consider That Are 2+ Syllables. Evergreen or Brio, anyone?

Do you have a favorite Bridgerton baby name?

Caroline at Huffington Post explores the trend, and I’m here for it.

I called Bridgerton names “… vintage, elegant and fun, just like the Vitamin String Quartet-fueled soundtrack.”

To go a little farther: they’re delightfully escapist. I am confident that only the tiniest handful of Regency-era couples experienced the wealth, ease, and self-determination we watch on the series.

And most of them probably didn’t have such fabulous names, either. Or exactly not those names. Author Bryn Donovan compiled a list of authentic Regency-era England names.

But I don’t think that takes anything away from the style. Romantic, dramatic, storied, and very wearable in the 21st century, too.

And the data prove that we’re here for Eloise and Benedict and Daphne, too.

ELSEWHERE ONLINE

Nancy looks at the most popular baby names in Puerto Rico. From the predictable Noah and Aurora, to the surprising Zhamira and Adriel. Combined with states like Texas and California, it’s an excellent snapshot of how Spanish-speaking Americans influence name trends.

Love this list of possible summer vibes to inspire a baby name. The Wanderlust list really hits home for me. Nico, Cosima, Amelie!

September, Memory, Worthy, but also Cosima, Clea, Wallis … such interesting names from this list of rarities. And yes, I did just mention Cosima twice. I think it’s wildly underused.

UPDATING & THINKING ABOUT

Ryland, because Project Hail Mary made me see this name with fresh eyes.

Blythe might be a little hard to say, but I think it’s a perfect vintage, meaningful word name, a blend of Blair and Ruth turned up to eleven.

Brooks just keeps climbing up the popularity charts. How high will it climb? I feel like the US Top 25 is possible.

That’s all for this week. As always, thank you for reading and have a great week!

The post Names in the News 6.7.26 appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

It’s time to look at Michigan baby names.

In terms of size, Michigan ranks near the top in both population (10th out of 50), as well as area (11th out of 50). 

But it looms even larger in the cultural imagination. The state’s biggest city, Detroit, is synonymous with the American auto industry. The nickname Detroit Motor City inspired Motown – Berry Gordy’s legendary record label that launched countless mega-stars. In turn, Motown is now a nickname for the city, too. The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Boyz II Men, Erykah Badu, 98 Degrees, Toni Braxton, and plenty of hit makers on the charts now have been part of Motown’s roster. 

It’s not just Motown, either. Madonna and Eminem are Michiganders, too. 

Detroit might be a big city, but it’s far from the entire state.

In fact, Michigan is called the Great Lakes State, and it’s the US state with the longest freshwater coastline. It’s second only to Alaska in terms of water coverage. Beyond the Great Lakes, plenty of other lakes and ponds are located in the state. 

Farther north, tiny Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World. It hosts an annual festival celebrating the crop.

Above that lies the Upper Peninsula, a sprawling expanse of forest with not too many people calling it home. 

And there’s also Lansing and Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids, Flint and Troy and Kalamazoo. 

INDIGENOUS HISTORY AND EUROPEAN SETTLERS

Indigenous peoples including the Ojibwe/Chippewa, Potawatomi, and Odawa, and Wyandot have called the area we know as Michigan home for ages. Their communities remain a part of the state today. 

European explorers first arrived in the region in the 17th century, beginning with a French expedition in 1622. The missionaries, traders, and army officers that followed over the next century would leave their names dotted across the landscape: Marquette, St. Joseph, Cadillac, St. Clair, and more. Because of the Great Lakes’ strategic importance and lucrative fur trade, the French worked to secure the area. Detroit – literally “straits” in French, referring to the river – became the biggest city between Montreal and New Orleans.

Until 1774, Michigan was part of New France. Following the Seven Years’ War in Europe, control shifted to the British. Some years after the American Revolution, the area became part of the United States. During the War of 1812, control shifted again. 

In January of 1837, Michigan entered the union as the 26th state.

INDUSTRIAL MICHIGAN in the 20th CENTURY

The railroad brought development to Michigan, but a group of early 20th century innovators changed the state – and the world – in a different way. Names like Dodge, Buick, and Olds would create the auto industry. Henry Ford is arguably the most famous among them. 

DEMOGRAPHICS

Today, just under 75% of Michiganders identify as white. About 14% are black or African American; another 3% are Asian. 

One interesting fact: while Spanish-speaking households are the largest second language, Arabic isn’t too far behind. Dearborn is sometimes called the Capital of Arab America; the largest population of Lebanese Americans call the area home. No surprise, then, that Ali ranks so highly in the boys’ names, or Layla over-performing for the girls’ names. 

MICHIGAN AS A BABY NAME

The state’s name comes from an indigenous language. An Ojibwe word meaning “large lake” is one possible source. There’s also a theory that it comes from a specific tribe, sometimes called the Mishiken. 

As a given name, Michigan surfaced just once in the US data. It was given to five boys in the year 2006. In the years before and since, it might have been occassionally used – but for privacy reasons, names given to four or fewer children of a single gender are not revealed. 

Interestingly, it’s turned up as a rare given name elsewhere. Nancy spotted it in Sweden’s boys’ name data for 2024.

Still, overall – even considering the unique choices inspired by place names in our moment – Michigan doesn’t really sound like a baby name.

TOP TEN BOY NAMES IN MICHIGAN

10. ELIJAH (#7 in the US)

A Top Ten name in so many places, including Michigan.

9. LEVI (#12 in the US)

Levi slightly overperforms, entering the state’s Top Ten.

8. LIAM (#1 in the US)

Without a significant Spanish-speaking population, Liam falls from the top spot to #8 for Michigan boys’ names.

7. HUDSON (#17 in the US)

A trend that holds across many states, in more than one region: Hudson tends to climb into the Top Ten in states without a strong Spanish-speaking population, replacing choices like Mateo. 

6. JACK (#15 in the US)

A traditional pick with some vintage energy.

5. JAMES (#6 in the US)

Most of Michigan’s Top Ten is just a subtle re-shuffling of the US data.

4. HENRY (#5 in the US)

Another classic favorite.

3. OLIVER (#3 in the US)

Oliver holds the same rank in the state as it does nationally.

2. NOAH (#2 in the US)

Noah also sits in the second place in Michigan as it does elsewhere.

1. THEODORE (#4 in the US)

Traditional Theodore slips into the top spot. Corewell Health, a major hospital system serving the Detroit and Grand Rapids areas, put Theodore #1 on their list of the top baby names for the year, too.

TOP 100 MICHIGANDER BOY NAMES

1. Theodore
2. Noah
3. Oliver
4. Henry
5. James
6. Jack
7. Hudson
8. Liam
9. Levi
10. Elijah
11. William
12. Bennett
13. Benjamin
14. Owen
15. Leo
16. Lucas
17. Jackson
18. Lincoln
19. Michael
20. Wyatt
21. Wesley
22. John
23. Ezra
24. Joseph
25. Mason
26. Roman
27. Luca
28. Rowan
29. Cooper
30. Daniel
31. Charles
32. Carter
33. Asher
34. Grayson
35. Brooks
36. Beau
37. Samuel
38. Luke
39. Thomas
40. Maverick
41. Miles
42. Isaac
43. Adam
44. Weston
45. Gabriel
46. David
47. Elias
48. Alexander
49. Colton*
50. Ali*
51. August
52. Silas
53. Mateo
54. Waylon
55. Everett
56. Isaiah
57. Emmett*
58. Jameson*
59. Myles
60. Julian
61. Logan
62. Andrew
63. Nolan
64. Jacob
65. Josiah
66. Matthew
67. Arthur
68. Atlas
69. Parker
70. Aiden
71. Archer
72. Vincent*
73. Cameron
74. Ezekiel
75. Graham
76. Anthony
77. Landon*
78. Walker
79. Carson
80. Calvin*
81. Caleb
82. Theo
83. Sebastian
84. Dominic*
85. Dawson*
86. Harrison*
87. Milo*
88. Ethan
89. Micah
90. Amir*
91. Christopher
92. Jace*
93. Beckett*
94. Malachi*
95. Sawyer*
96. Giovanni*
97. Dylan
98. Christian
99. Easton*
100. Joshua

* indicates name does not appear in the current US Top 100

TOP TEN GIRL NAMES IN MICHIGAN

10. HARPER (#13 in the US)

Literary surname name still in the state’s Top Ten.

9. LAINEY (#30 in the US)

Lainey is a fast-rising favorite, strongly associated with the West – which apparently includes Michigan. 

8. EMMA (#3 in the US)

Emma falls to make space for some other favorites.

7. VIOLET (#16 in the US)

A strong floral name rises even higher in Michigan.

6. OLIVIA (#1 in the US)

The #1 name across the US slips all the way to #6.

5. EVELYN (#8 in the US)

A strong traditional favorite.

4. ELEANOR (#12 in the US)

Classic Eleanor is even more popular here, along with El- names like Eliza, Elliana, and Elsie.

3. SOPHIA (#5 in the US)

An international classic, big pretty much everywhere in the US.

2. AMELIA (#4 in the US)

1. CHARLOTTE (#2 in the US)

With a relatively small Spanish-speaking popularity, Charlotte sweeps to the top of the charts. 

TOP 100 MICHIGANDER GIRL NAMES

1. Charlotte
2. Amelia
3. Sophia
4. Eleanor
5. Evelyn
6. Olivia
7. Violet
8. Emma
9. Lainey
10. Harper
11. Isabella
12. Ava
13. Nora
14. Aurora
15. Isla
16. Hazel
17. Josephine
18. Ivy
19. Lily
20. Mila
21. Ella
22. Mia
23. Lucy
24. Eliana
25. Grace
26. Layla
27. Penelope
28. Avery
29. Vivian
30. Aria
31. Elizabeth
32. Nova
33. Willow
34. Eloise
35. Ellie
36. Lillian
37. Chloe
38. Gianna
39. Scarlett
40. Luna
41. Riley
42. Sofia
43. Stella
44. Paisley
45. Sadie
46. Zoey
47. Adeline
48. Claire
49. Sophie
50. Clara
51. Delilah
52. Millie
53. Quinn
54. Daisy
55. Abigail
56. Ayla
57. Madison
58. Iris
59. Kennedy
60. Madelyn
61. Naomi
62. Elena
63. Kinsley
64. Ruby
65. Josie
66. Hannah
67. Maeve
68. Cecilia*
69. Emilia
70. Juniper
71. Natalie
72. Autumn
73. Lydia
74. Addison
75. Liliana
76. Rose*
77. Hadley*
78. Zoe
79. Emersyn*
80. Emery
81. Oakley*
82. Eliza*
83. Georgia
84. Raelynn*
85. Eden
86. Margot*
87. Brooklyn*
88. Maya
89. Parker*
90. Emerson*
91. Leah
92. Lyla
93. Elsie*
94. Mabel*
95. Alice
96. Anna*
97. Cora*
98. Emily
99. Haven*
100. Elliana*

* indicates name does not appear in the current US Top 100

DISTINCTIVE MICHIGAN PLACE NAMES

ANN

Established in 1824, the city of Ann Arbor was developed by land speculators John Allen and Elisha Walker Rumsey. They were both married to women named Ann, and the land held an extensive forested area. First called Annarbour, the name evolved over time. It’s now most famous as the home of the University of Michigan.

BELLE

Belle Isle sits in the middle of the Detroit River, a large island operated as a state park for well over a century. It first took the name way back in 1845, when a large gathering on the island voted for the name. Besides the literal meaning – beautiful island – it was inspired by Miss Isabelle Cass, daughter of Michigan governor Lewis Cass. 

CASS 

The Cass family also inspired the name of a county.

CHARLOTTE

A small city and the seat of Eaton County, Charlotte was named for the land developer’s wife. Over time, the pronunciation has become shar-LOTT, not SHAR lett, putting it at odds with the more familiar name.

CLAIR, CLARE

Lake Saint Clair and Saint Clair Shores sit in the Detroit suburbs, complete with urban beaches. There’s also a small town elsewhere in the state named Clare, for County Clare in Ireland. 

CLIO

From the name of a tiny town near Flint. Instead of sounding like Cleo, pronounce to rhyme with rye-oh.

EMMET 

Another county, this one was named for 18th century Irish nationalist Robert Emmet.

ISABELLA

Isabella County was named for the queen of Spain who comissioned Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the new world. 

MILAN

Once again, Michigan goes their own way. They pronounce this place name my-lynn. 

ORION

Michigans pronounce Lake Orion oh-ree-uhn, rather than rye. 

SHELBY

A popular place name, Shelby seems especially fitting given Detroit’s ties to all things automotive.

STERLING

As in Sterling Heights, a Detroit ‘burb.

TROY

This town was named after Troy, New York, since many early settlers relocated from that location. The New Yorkers originally named their Troy after the ancient city.

WARREN

It turns out that multiple influential Michiganders with the surname Warren might’ve inspired this place name.

WAYNE

Founding Father Mad Anthony Wayne served as a general during the American Revolution. He’s memorialized with this Michigan place name.

NAMES FROM MICHIGAN HISTORY & SYMBOLS

APPLE, BLOSSOM

Inspired by the state flower.

FORD

Walter Chrysler and GM’s William Durant might also be choices with ties to Michigan history, but Henry Ford is best remembered for the innovation that drove the auto industry. While his personal beliefs and political actions are disqualifying, it’s (probably) possible to see Ford as a brand and symbol beyond the problematic founder. 

IRIS

The Dwarf Lake Iris is the state’s wildflower.

LAKE

Every state has lakes, but Michigan has the Great Lakes.

ROBIN

The state’s official bird.

FAMOUS MICHIGANDERS

AALIYAH

The singer was born in New York, but grew up in Michigan.

ARETHA

As in Franklin, the Queen of Soul and perhaps the greatest singer of all time, she started singing in a Detroit church choir where her father served as pastor.

DIANA

Michigan music legends just don’t stop. Adding Diana Ross to the list.

GERALD

As in the 38th president of the United States, following the resignation of Richard Nixon. The Grand Rapids-raised Gerald Ford puts a different spin on the surname.

IGGY

Punk rock icon Iggy Pop grew up in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

LILY 

Comedian Lily Tomlin called Detroit home and graduated from Wayne State University.

MALCOLM

Nebraska-born Malcolm X spent much of his youth in Lansing. 

SERENA

Saginaw native Serena Williams has become one of the best athletes in the world. 

THEODORE

Poet Theodore Roethke is another Saginaw native, and recipient of the 1954 Pulitzer Prize for poetry.

What are your favorite Michigan baby names? What’s missing from this list?

The post Popular in Michigan Baby Names appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

The baby name Ryland isn’t new. In fact, it’s all grown up as the name of Ryan Gosling’s character in 2026 blockbuster Project Hail Mary. 

Thanks to Alysia for suggesting our Baby Name of the Day.

WHAT DOES THE NAME RYLAND MEAN?

It’s easy enough to tease out the meaning of the name Ryland: rye land, an area where rye was grown. Or, more likely, someone who lived near rye land. 

Spellings like Rylance were also in use. In English, other surnames might’ve become Ryland, too. The German Reiland likely refers to the Rhine land, but might’ve sometimes been simplified to the Ry- spelling. 

RYAN and RYLAN

All of these names might’ve remained obscure, except for the runaway success of the baby name Ryan. The Irish surname means “little king.”

It surged in popularity during the 1960s and 70s, ranking in the US Top 25 from 1974 through 2011. 

That’s quite a run. Credit goes to so many forces. A 1970 British movie titled Ryan’s Daughter is part of the puzzle. Soap opera Ryan’s Hope, which debuted in 1975, is another factor. But young actor Ryan O’Neal probably boosted the name more than anything. Following his breakthrough role in Peyton Place on television, he went on to earn a Best Actor nomination for his role in 1970 hit Love Story. O’Neal starred opposite Ali MacGraw as Jennifer. She was also nominated for an Oscar, and arguably pushed her character’s name to the #1 spot. 

As Ryan was rising, other name followed. Rylan debuted in the US popularity data in 1968. 

Then came the baby name Ryland. Late 19th/early 20th century English politican Ryland Adkins was one notable bearer, though it was his middle name. 

Television series Dallas gave us a character called Harris Ryland in the 2010s reboot. 

All three names: Ryan, Rylan, and Ryland, are occasionally used for both genders, though overwhelmingly masculine. 

HOW POPULAR IS THE NAME RYLAND?

In an era when parents’ preferences run to surnames with a modern edge, Ryland could be the perfect baby name.

It first appeared in the boys’ data in the year 1912. It’s been used steadily, in small numbers, ever since.

In the year 2003, the baby name Ryland entered the US Top 1000 at #990. It peaked at #407 in 2013. 

As of 2025, the baby name Ryland fell to #706. Still familiar, but far from chart-topping.

RYLAND GRACE

But could that change? 2026 blockbuster Project Hail Mary was based on a novel by Andy Weir. 

Equally hopeful and terrifying, Weir’s novel gave the main character a perfect name. Ryland Grace suggests ties to the earth, but also the good fortune that makes this unlikely hero the only one who can complete his work. 

Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of the character was especially winning. He wore quirky, science geek tee shirts with vintage sweaters. And he risked it all to save his best friend. 

Will the movie give the baby name Ryland a bump?

ORDINARY HERO NAME

Typically movies can’t boost a name. At least, non-franchise movies. That’s because parents aren’t exposed to the name often enough, over a period of time, to warm up to the idea of naming their children Ryland.

What might happen, though? Ryland’s status as an everyman hero might lend just enough luster to the name to keep it stable a little bit longer.

Instead of falling out of use rapidly as a trendy, Ryan-adjacent surname-style choice, Ryland now feels like an established name for a son. It’s capable and strong, an understated hero name.

That might be exactly what some parents are after right now.

What do you think of the baby name Ryland?

The post Baby Name of the Day: Ryland appeared first on Appellation Mountain.