📅 Since 1910🏆 15 years in top 1000.88% of births at peak
How to pronounce Chelsea
CHELS·ee
/ˈtʃɛls.iː/ · stress on CHELS · 2 syllables
“Port for chalk”
United Kingdom origin · Unisex name
What does Chelsea mean and where does it come from?
Chelsea is derived from an Old English place name from 'Cealc-hyð', meaning 'port for chalk' or 'landing place for chalk'. The name gained popularity as a given name in the mid-20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Chelsea has been widely used in the United States since the 1970s
Cultural significance
Chelsea has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of port for chalk.
Peak popularity
Reached #15 in 1992 — currently #628 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Holding steady — currently #628 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#628 · Top 0.46%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#628
1,572
▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022
#633
1,552
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#638
1,522
▲ up 8 · +243% births
2020
#646
444
▼ down 338 · -58% births
2015
#308
1,055
▼ down 86 · -26% births
2010
#222
1,417
▼ down 22 · -18% births
2005
#200
1,734
▼ down 60 · -27% births
2000
#140
2,380
▼ down 93 · -65% births
1995
#47
6,760
▼ down 23 · -47% births
1990
#24
12,782
▲ up 51 · +254% births
1985
#75
3,614
▲ up 337 · +569% births
1980
#412
540
▲ up 100 · +55% births
1975
#512
349
▲ up 181 · +54% births
1970
#693
226
▲ up 4706 · +3129% births
1965
#5399
7
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Chelsea
1990Rank #24
12,782
#1827
↗Rising
1910 - 202322 years
The story of Chelsea
Chelsea entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. Its peak popularity was #15 in 1992. More than 161,334 babies have been named Chelsea since 1910. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2716 in 1910 to #628 in 2023. Chelsea is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Chelsea means "Port for chalk" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Chelsea?
Chelsea is currently ranked #628 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 Chelsea?
Chelsea originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 Chelsea?
Chelsea is a two-syllable name pronounced CH EH1 L S IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Chelsea more of a girl or boy name?
Chelsea 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 Chelsea
For a sister
Chelsea & Ashley♡
Chelsea & Toyah♡
Chelsea & Jessica♡
Chelsea & Trevor♡
For a brother
Chelsea & Edwind♡
Chelsea & Richardjames♡
Chelsea & Talbott♡
Chelsea & Adderly♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#628
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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