Recent Social Security Administration data reveals a notable shift in naming patterns across the United States. Names that dominated birth‑year charts for decades are now slipping far down the list, reflecting changing parental preferences.
Names that have fallen dramatically
Karen peaked in 1965 at third place for baby girls, with more than 32,000 newborns receiving the name that year. In 2026 it sits at 1,251st, one of the steepest declines recorded.
Lisa held the top spot for eight consecutive years from 1962 to 1969, but now ranks 984th, a position more commonly associated with grandparents than newborns.
Jessica was the leading name for girls in the late 1980s, reaching its highest count in 1987. By 2026 it has slipped to 575th.
Jennifer enjoyed a 14‑year run at number one from 1970 to 1984. Today it sits at 546th.
Amanda spent two decades near the top and was the second‑most popular name in 1987; it now ranks 495th.
Names still holding modest positions
Ashley topped the chart in 1991 and remained in the top ten throughout the decade. It currently sits at 124th, a far cry from its peak.
Christopher was a go‑to boy’s name in the 1980s, second only to Michael. In 2026 it ranks 61st.
Madison surged in the 2000s, helped in part by the film “Splash.” It now holds the 45th spot among girl names.
Jacob was a top choice for boys from 1999 to 2012, but has cooled to 40th place.
Ava entered the top ten around 2005 and remained there until recently, when it fell behind the rising name Eliana in 2025. It now sits just outside the top ten.
What the trend means
These shifts illustrate how naming fashions evolve over time. While some names may re‑emerge in future decades, the current data shows a clear move away from many mid‑century and late‑20th‑century favorites.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
