What does Isla mean and where does it come from?
Isla is a name of Scottish origin that refers to the word for 'island' in Scottish Gaelic. It has gained significant popularity in English-speaking countries in the 21st century, particularly in the UK and the US. The name is often associated with the beautiful Isle of Islay in Scotland, known for i
Cultural significance
Isla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of island.
Peak popularity
Reached #28 in 2025 — currently #28 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Isla?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Isla?
Isla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Isla Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Isla Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Isla Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Isla Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Isla Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Isla Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Isla right now?
Rising — up 7 spots — currently #28 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #28 | 6,012 | ▲ up 7 · +12% births |
| 2024 | #35 | 5,382 | ▼ down 2 |
| 2023 | #33 | 5,381 | ▲ up 3 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #36 | 5,284 | ▼ down 2 · -5% births |
| 2021 | #34 | 5,540 | ▲ up 10 · +22% births |
| 2020 | #44 | 4,538 | ▲ up 98 · +100% births |
| 2015 | #142 | 2,272 | ▲ up 155 · +107% births |
| 2010 | #297 | 1,098 | ▲ up 2671 · +1933% births |
| 2005 | #2968 | 54 | ▲ up 565 · +46% births |
| 2000 | #3533 | 37 | ▲ up 2165 · +131% births |
| 1995 | #5698 | 16 | ▲ up 2837 · +78% births |
| 1990 | #8535 | 9 | ▼ down 2474 · -18% births |
| 1985 | #6061 | 11 | ▲ up 547 · +120% births |
| 1965 | #6608 | 5 | ▼ down 2904 · -44% births |
| 1950 | #3704 | 9 | — |
The story of Isla
Isla has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. Its peak popularity was #44 in 2020. A total of 30,575 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #933 in 1890 to #33 in 2023. Isla is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Isla in 2025:
Isla by decade
Isla peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 23 | |
| 1890s | 74 | |
| 1900s | 112 | |
| 1910s | 244 | |
| 1920s | 269 | |
| 1930s | 182 | |
| 1940s | 95 | |
| 1950s | 33 | |
| 1960s | 20 | |
| 1970s | 26 | |
| 1980s | 55 | |
| 1990s | 142 | |
| 2000s | 1,925 | |
| 2010s ★ | 22,831 | |
| 2020s | 15,945 | |
What names sound and feel like Isla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Isla also consider these
What are the boy versions of Isla?
Common questions about the name Isla
What does the name Isla mean?
Isla means "Island" — a name rooted in English 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 Isla?
Isla is currently ranked #33 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Isla have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Isla?
Isla originates from English tradition. English 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 Isla?
Isla is a two-syllable name pronounced EE-luh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Isla trending right now?
Isla is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.