Recent analysis by AnyWho, using Social Security Administration records and NameAlmanac data, reveals a notable shift in baby‑name trends across the United States. Names that dominated birth registries for decades are now sliding toward the lower end of the popularity list.
Names that have fallen sharply
Karen peaked in 1965 as the third‑most popular name for newborn girls, with more than 32,000 babies receiving the name that year. In 2026 it sits at 1,251st place, marking one of the steepest declines on record.
Lisa held the top spot for eight consecutive years from 1962 to 1969, but today it ranks 984th, a position more commonly associated with older generations.
Jessica was the leading choice for girls in the late 1980s, reaching its highest count in 1987. The name now sits at 575th place.
Jennifer enjoyed a 14‑year reign from 1970 to 1984, yet it has slipped to 546th in the current rankings.
Amanda spent two decades near the top, peaking at second place in 1987, and now ranks 495th.
Names still holding modest popularity
Ashley reached number one in 1991 and remained in the top ten throughout the 1990s. It currently sits at 124th, still relatively common but far from its peak.
Christopher was a favorite for boys in the 1980s, often second only to Michael. It now ranks 61st.
Madison surged in the 2000s, partly due to the film “Splash,” and now holds the 45th spot among girl names.
Jacob was a top choice for boys from 1999 to 2012, ranking 40th today.
Ava entered the top ten around 2005 and remained there until 2025, when it was edged out by the rising name Eliana. It now sits just outside the top ten.
What the shift means
The data underscores how naming fashions evolve over time, making room for new preferences among parents. While these once‑common names have declined, they could reappear in future decades as naming cycles repeat.
For families considering traditional names, the current rankings provide a snapshot of how popular each choice is today.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
