What does Arla mean and where does it come from?
Arla is a name that can be found in the United States and has roots in Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden. In Swedish, it can also relate to 'arl,' meaning 'eagle'. This name has gained some popularity in recent years, particularly in modern naming trends in the US, often touted for its sim
Cultural significance
Arla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of eagle or from the name of a keeper of the mountains..
Peak popularity
Reached #857 in 1934 — currently #1444 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Arla?
Arla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Arla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Arla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Arla Claire
French influence · crisp
Arla Jane
Literary · strong
Arla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Arla right now?
Holding steady — currently #1444 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1444 | 756 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1449 | 736 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1454 | 706 | ▲ up 3410 · +2615% births |
| 2020 | #4864 | 26 | ▲ up 6019 · +189% births |
| 2015 | #10883 | 9 | ▲ up 5646 · +80% births |
| 2005 | #16529 | 5 | ▼ down 9540 · -44% births |
| 1985 | #6989 | 9 | ▼ down 2451 · -44% births |
| 1980 | #4538 | 16 | ▲ up 344 · +33% births |
| 1975 | #4882 | 12 | ▼ down 1661 · -40% births |
| 1970 | #3221 | 20 | ▼ down 604 · -9% births |
| 1965 | #2617 | 22 | ▼ down 685 · -37% births |
| 1960 | #1932 | 35 | ▼ down 410 · -22% births |
| 1955 | #1522 | 45 | ▼ down 139 · +2% births |
| 1950 | #1383 | 44 | ▼ down 84 · +16% births |
| 1945 | #1299 | 38 | — |
The story of Arla
Arla has been a beloved American name for over 136 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1888. With 2,687 total births recorded, Arla remains relatively uncommon. Arla is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Arla in 1934:
Arla by decade
Arla peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 36 | |
| 1900s | 46 | |
| 1910s | 221 | |
| 1920s | 400 | |
| 1930s ★ | 553 | |
| 1940s | 465 | |
| 1950s | 397 | |
| 1960s | 242 | |
| 1970s | 111 | |
| 1980s | 75 | |
| 1990s | 10 | |
| 2000s | 10 | |
| 2010s | 90 | |
| 2020s | 26 | |
💎With 2,687 total births, Arla is an uncommon but established name.
What names sound and feel like Arla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Arla also consider these
Common questions about the name Arla
What does the name Arla mean?
Arla means "Eagle or from the name of a keeper of the mountains." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Arla?
Arla is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Arla?
Arla originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Arla?
Arla is a two-syllable name pronounced AA1 R L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Arla a common or rare name?
Arla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.