📅 Since 1890🏆 10 years in top 1000.27% of births at peak
How to pronounce Carla
KAH·rlah
/ˈkɑ.rlɑ/ · stress on KAH · 2 syllables
“free man”
Associated with strong and inde · Italian origin
What does Carla mean and where does it come from?
Carla is of both Italian and Spanish origins, derived from the name 'Charles', which itself has Germanic roots meaning 'free man'. It has been a popular name across various cultures since the 19th century, particularly in Europe and later in Latin America. The name is associated with strong and inde
Cultural significance
Carla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italian-speaking communities, where it reflects values of free man.
Holding steady — currently #511 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1890–2023#511 · Top 0.38%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#511
1,689
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#516
1,669
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#521
1,639
▲ up 498 · +572% births
2020
#1019
244
▼ down 143 · -23% births
2015
#876
317
▼ down 122 · -13% births
2010
#754
366
▼ down 245 · -37% births
2005
#509
584
▼ down 105 · -17% births
2000
#404
706
▼ down 60 · -8% births
1995
#344
764
▼ down 81 · -30% births
1990
#263
1,092
▼ down 69 · -22% births
1985
#194
1,395
▼ down 42 · -24% births
1980
#152
1,832
▼ down 30 · -21% births
1975
#122
2,315
▼ down 28 · -45% births
1970
#94
4,214
▼ down 18 · -12% births
1965
#76
4,781
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Carla
1965Rank #76
4,781
#668
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Carla
Carla has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. Its peak popularity was #76 in 1965. More than 149,525 babies have been named Carla since 1890. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1490 in 1890 to #511 in 2023. Carla is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Carla means "free man" — a name rooted in Italian 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 Carla?
Carla is currently ranked #511 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 Carla?
Carla originates from Italian tradition. Italian 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 Carla?
Carla is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R L AA0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Carla more of a girl or boy name?
Carla is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Carla
For a sister
Carla & Antonio♡
Carla & Dante♡
Carla & Gerardina♡
Carla & Mia♡
For a brother
Carla & Antonio♡
Carla & Dante♡
Carla & Mondo♡
Carla & Luca♡
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