Burley

“A place name, or fortification; Pastoral land”

American origin · used since the 20th century

♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls

#1515US 2023

685Births / yr

→Stable

2.4kAll-time births

📅 Since 190000

How to pronounce Burley

BER·lee

/ˈbɝ.liː/ · stress on BER · 2 syllables

“A place name, or fortification; Pastoral land”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Burley mean and where does it come from?

Burley is traditionally a surname of English origin, but has been adopted as a first name, especially in the United States. The name, with roots in Old English, can refer to a 'fortification' or 'pastoral land.' Burley has been used since the 20th century as a unisex name, but is gaining popularity

Cultural significance

Burley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a place name, or fortification; pastoral land.

Peak popularity

Reached #1960 in 1900 — currently #1515 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Burley?

Burley works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Burley Grace

How popular is Burley right now?

Holding steady — currently #1515 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1900–2023#1515 · Top 1.1%

1900

1925

1940

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1515	685	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022	#1520	665	▲ up 5 · +5% births
2021	#1525	635	▲ up 2870 · +12600% births
1940	#4395	5	▼ down 704 · -37% births
1925	#3691	8	▼ down 1731 · +60% births
1900	#1960	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Burley

Best Year2023Rank #1515

Peak Count685

Average Rank#2434

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1900 - 20236 years

The story of Burley

Burley has been a beloved American name for over 124 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1900. With 2,350 total births recorded, Burley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1960 in 1900 to #1515 in 2023. Burley is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.

Names that peaked alongside Burley in 1900:

Mary Helen Anna Margaret Ruth

Burley by decade

Burley peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	82
1890s	68
1900s	96
1910s	359
1920s ★	467
1930s	376
1940s	325
1950s	234
1960s	167
1970s	97
1980s	41
1990s	15
2000s	5
2010s	11
2020s	7

💎With 2,350 total births, Burley is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Burley?

Common

BurBuUrley

What names sound and feel like Burley?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Burley also consider these

Burnley

English · meadow land near

Burkley

USA · Birch wood

Burkey

International · A International name

Gurley

American · unknown

Budley

International · A International name

Bulley

International · A International name

Berley

American · Derived from Old

Turley

Ireland · Place of the

Common questions about the name Burley

What does the name Burley mean?

Burley means "A place name, or fortification; Pastoral land" — 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 Burley?

Burley 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 Burley?

Burley 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 Burley?

Burley is a two-syllable name pronounced B ER1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Burley a common or rare name?

Burley is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.