What does Hailey mean and where does it come from?
Hailey is a popular name in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its roots are in Old English, and it has been documented since the 19th century. Notable figures include Hailey Bieber (model) and Hailey Steinfeld (actress and singer).
Cultural significance
Hailey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the hay clearing or hay meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #19 in 2010 — currently #90 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Hailey?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Hailey?
Hailey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hailey Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hailey Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hailey Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hailey Claire
French influence · crisp
Hailey Jane
Literary · strong
Hailey Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hailey right now?
Declining — down 10 spots — currently #90 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #90 | 2,782 | ▼ down 10 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #80 | 3,002 | ▼ down 3 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #77 | 3,247 | ▲ up 4 · +4% births |
| 2020 | #81 | 3,129 | ▼ down 17 · -26% births |
| 2015 | #64 | 4,247 | ▼ down 45 · -39% births |
| 2010 | #19 | 7,019 | ▲ up 7 · -18% births |
| 2005 | #26 | 8,589 | ▲ up 9 · +10% births |
| 2000 | #35 | 7,830 | ▲ up 76 · +164% births |
| 1995 | #111 | 2,965 | ▲ up 182 · +214% births |
| 1990 | #293 | 945 | ▲ up 245 · +155% births |
| 1985 | #538 | 370 | ▲ up 949 · +357% births |
| 1980 | #1487 | 81 | ▲ up 1512 · +238% births |
| 1975 | #2999 | 24 | ▲ up 2545 · +167% births |
| 1970 | #5544 | 9 | — |
The story of Hailey
Hailey is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. Its peak popularity was #19 in 2010. More than 167,302 babies have been named Hailey since 1963. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5544 in 1970 to #90 in 2023. Hailey is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Hailey in 2010:
Hailey by decade
Hailey peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 12 | |
| 1960s | 25 | |
| 1970s | 397 | |
| 1980s | 3,610 | |
| 1990s | 30,348 | |
| 2000s ★ | 82,099 | |
| 2010s | 47,677 | |
| 2020s | 3,134 | |
What are good nicknames for Hailey?
Common
HaiHailHailieHailyIley
What names sound and feel like Hailey?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hailey also consider these
How is Hailey written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Hailey
What does the name Hailey mean?
Hailey means "From the hay clearing or hay meadow" — 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 Hailey?
Hailey is currently ranked #90 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 Hailey?
Hailey 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 Hailey?
Hailey is a two-syllable name pronounced HH AE1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hailey more of a girl or boy name?
Hailey is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.