“A place of birch trees” — Associated with the city of Berkeley
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 34% boys♀ 66% girls
#2272US 2023
81Births / yr
↑Rising
2.5kAll-time births
📅 Since 192300.01% of births at peak
What does Berkeley mean and where does it come from?
The name Berkeley is derived from the Old English words 'beorc' meaning birch and 'leah' meaning clearing or meadow, which translates to 'birch wood or meadow'. It became popular as a given name in the United States and can also be associated with the city of Berkeley, California. The name evokes im
Cultural significance
Berkeley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a place of birch trees.
Peak popularity
Reached #1757 in 2017 — currently #2272 in the US.
Rising — up 47 spots — currently #2272 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1975–2023#2272 · Top 1.7%
1975
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2272
81
▲ up 47 · +1% births
2022
#2319
80
▼ down 200 · -10% births
2021
#2119
89
▼ down 226 · -11% births
2020
#1893
100
▼ down 12 · -7% births
2015
#1881
108
▲ up 570 · +42% births
2010
#2451
76
▲ up 913 · +69% births
2005
#3364
45
▲ up 1804 · +105% births
2000
#5168
22
▲ up 82 · +22% births
1995
#5250
18
▲ up 4096 · +125% births
1990
#9346
8
▼ down 1684
1985
#7662
8
▼ down 373 · +14% births
1975
#7289
7
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Berkeley
2015Rank #1881
108
#4251
↗Rising
1975 - 202312 years
The story of Berkeley
Berkeley entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. With 2,518 total births recorded, Berkeley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7289 in 1975 to #2272 in 2023. Berkeley is used for both genders: 66% female and 34% male.
Berkeley means "A place of birch trees" — 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 Berkeley?
Berkeley is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Berkeley?
Berkeley 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.
What sibling names go well with Berkeley?
Berkeley pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Berkeley a common or rare name?
Berkeley is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Berkeley
For a sister
Berkeley & Avery♡
Berkeley & Madison♡
Berkeley & Ivy♡
Berkeley & Willow♡
For a brother
Berkeley & Oliver♡
Berkeley & Elijah♡
Berkeley & Hudson♡
Berkeley & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#2272
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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