Dakota

“Allies; friends”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 71% boys♀ 29% girls

#262US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

123.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 191500.1% of births at peak

How to pronounce Dakota

duk·OH·tuh

/dək.ˈoʊ.tə/ · stress on OH · 3 syllables

“Allies; friends”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Dakota mean and where does it come from?

Dakota is derived from the Siouan language and means 'friends' or 'allies.' It is used as both a feminine and masculine name but is more commonly given to females. The name gained popularity in the United States in the late 20th century, partly due to a movement toward names that reflect Native Amer

Cultural significance

Dakota has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of allies; friends.

Peak popularity

Reached #190 in 2006 — currently #262 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Dakota?

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

Dakota Grace

How popular is Dakota right now?

Holding steady — currently #262 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#262 · Top 0.19%

1960

1965

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#262	1,189	▼ down 4 · -2% births
2022	#258	1,209	▲ up 12 · +4% births
2021	#270	1,162	▼ down 9
2020	#261	1,158	▼ down 19 · -13% births
2015	#242	1,332	▲ up 44 · +17% births
2010	#286	1,142	▼ down 61 · -25% births
2005	#225	1,513	▲ up 71 · +39% births
2000	#296	1,086	▼ down 44 · -3% births
1995	#252	1,125	▲ up 345 · +196% births
1990	#597	380	▲ up 1219 · +513% births
1985	#1816	62	▲ up 1615 · +158% births
1980	#3431	24	▲ up 1487 · +100% births
1975	#4918	12	▼ down 330 · +33% births
1965	#4588	9	▼ down 1004 · -31% births
1960	#3584	13	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dakota

Best Year2005Rank #225

Peak Count1,513

Average Rank#1543

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 202316 years

The story of Dakota

Dakota entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. More than 123,586 babies have been named Dakota since 1915. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3396 in 1915 to #262 in 2023. Dakota is used for both genders: 29% female and 71% male.

Names that peaked alongside Dakota in 2006:

Emily Emma Madison Isabella Ava

Dakota by decade

Dakota peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	8
1920s	6
1950s	31
1960s	74
1970s	286
1980s	3,022
1990s ★	55,797
2000s	40,547
2010s	21,752
2020s	2,063

What are good nicknames for Dakota?

Common

DakDakieDakyOta

What names sound and feel like Dakota?

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

Dakkota

American · Allies, friends

American · A variation of

Dakita

American · A variation of

Takota

American · Friend

Lakota

American · A beloved name

Jakota

American · allies or friends

Common questions about the name Dakota

What does the name Dakota mean?

Dakota means "Allies; friends" — 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 Dakota?

Dakota is currently ranked #262 in the United States 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 Dakota?

Dakota 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 Dakota?

Dakota is a three-syllable name pronounced D AH0 K OW1 T AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

What sibling names go well with Dakota?

Dakota 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.