Baby Name Trend Predictions for 2024–2025

What to Expect from the SSA List (and Beyond)

The Social Security Administration is about to drop the official list of the top baby names on May 9th, and as a baby name consultant, I couldn't be more excited! If you're a fellow name lover or a parent-to-be, you're probably wondering what trends are taking over this year—and what’s quietly fading out.

Here are my top predictions for baby name trends we'll see reflected in the 2024 data and what I believe will continue into 2025.

Nature-Inspired Names Keep Growing

Nature continues to be a powerful source of inspiration for baby names. These grounded, earthy names are beloved for their simplicity and strength:

• River

• Hunter

• Brooks

• Sage

• Daisy

• Ember

Expect to see these rise even higher in the rankings!

Short & Snappy Names Are In

Short names with 1–2 syllables are trending hard. They’re easy to spell, easy to say, and make a big impression in a small package.

• Yuri

• Nori

• Lumi

• Leo

• Ellie

• Jack

These names feel modern, crisp, and effortlessly cool.

The Rise of K & Z Sounds

Names with bold K and Z sounds began climbing in 2023—and I predict 2024 will see even more.

• Zaden

• Kaizen

• Izan

• Azari

• Mazie

• Kyren

• Koen

• Kenji

These names feel fresh, edgy, and modern—great for parents who want something unique but not too unfamiliar.

Surnames as First Names Continue to Soar

Using surnames as first names is officially a thing. They bring a sophisticated or even rustic charm, and often sound gender-neutral.

• Banks

• Dutton

• Callahan

• Whitley

• Collins

They carry weight and versatility, which makes them appealing across a range of styles.

Vintage Names are Making a Comeback

Old-fashioned names are rising steadily—especially those that sound like they belong to your grandparents or their friends.

Girls:

• Florence

• Maxine

• Elaine

• Barbara

• Paula

• Georgina

Boys:

• Harlan

• Douglas

• Harvey

These vintage picks feel nostalgic yet fresh—a perfect combo.

On Their Way Out

Trends fade, and some names that once dominated the charts are starting to decline.

Phasing Out:

• Names ending in -lani (Leilani, Meilani, Keilani) are still present, but slowly stepping aside.

Newcomers Rising:

• Armani

• Avani

• Aylani

• Imani

Declining Fast:

• The “-aden” wave is crashing: Jaden, Brayden, Aiden, Hayden are all past their peak.

• Royal names (Philip, Catherine, Edward, Albert) are no longer trending with modern parents.

Final Thoughts

The baby name world is always evolving, and 2024 is shaping up to be a year of earthy, efficient, and vintage-meets-modern vibes. I’ll be back soon to break down the official SSA name list when it drops, but for now—these are the trends I’m calling.

With love and a sprinkle of stardust,
Shandy @ The Naming Nanny