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.
Peak popularity
Reached #76 in 1965 — currently #511 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Italian-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Carla?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Carla?
Carla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Carla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Carla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Carla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Carla Claire
French influence · crisp
Carla Jane
Literary · strong
Carla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Carla right now?
Holding steady — currently #511 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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.
Names that peaked alongside Carla in 1965:
Carla by decade
Carla peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 54 | |
| 1910s | 171 | |
| 1920s | 550 | |
| 1930s | 2,262 | |
| 1940s | 9,497 | |
| 1950s | 29,486 | |
| 1960s ★ | 48,015 | |
| 1970s | 26,945 | |
| 1980s | 14,554 | |
| 1990s | 8,433 | |
| 2000s | 6,160 | |
| 2010s | 3,143 | |
| 2020s | 244 | |
What are good nicknames for Carla?
DANISH
CarolineCharlotteInaKarolinaKarolineLinaLineLotte
What names sound and feel like Carla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Carla also consider these
How is Carla written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Carla
What does the name Carla mean?
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.