What does Kayla mean and where does it come from?
Kayla is a name that has gained popularity particularly in the United States since the 1980s. It is often considered a variation of the Hebrew name 'Mikaylah,' meaning 'who is like God.' The name can also be associated with the Irish 'Caela,' which means 'slender.' The name is recognized for its uni
Cultural significance
Kayla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #11 in 1995 — currently #324 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kayla?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kayla?
Kayla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kayla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kayla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kayla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kayla Claire
French influence · crisp
Kayla Jane
Literary · strong
Kayla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kayla right now?
Declining — down 44 spots — currently #324 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #324 | 952 | ▼ down 44 · -16% births |
| 2022 | #280 | 1,132 | ▼ down 26 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #254 | 1,216 | ▼ down 37 · -8% births |
| 2020 | #217 | 1,326 | ▼ down 102 · -52% births |
| 2015 | #115 | 2,736 | ▼ down 66 · -46% births |
| 2010 | #49 | 5,055 | ▼ down 24 · -41% births |
| 2005 | #25 | 8,616 | ▼ down 12 · -35% births |
| 2000 | #13 | 13,312 | ▼ down 2 · -17% births |
| 1995 | #11 | 16,086 | ▲ up 3 · -8% births |
| 1990 | #14 | 17,538 | ▲ up 94 · +573% births |
| 1985 | #108 | 2,607 | ▲ up 484 · +733% births |
| 1980 | #592 | 313 | ▲ up 179 · +70% births |
| 1975 | #771 | 184 | ▲ up 83 · +16% births |
| 1970 | #854 | 158 | ▼ down 33 · +7% births |
| 1965 | #821 | 147 | — |
The story of Kayla
Kayla entered American naming records in 1933 and has been in use for over 91 years. Its peak popularity was #11 in 1995. More than 341,929 babies have been named Kayla since 1933. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4805 in 1935 to #324 in 2023. Kayla is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kayla in 1995:
Kayla by decade
Kayla peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 35 | |
| 1940s | 161 | |
| 1950s | 700 | |
| 1960s | 1,488 | |
| 1970s | 1,942 | |
| 1980s | 55,441 | |
| 1990s ★ | 156,112 | |
| 2000s | 94,484 | |
| 2010s | 30,240 | |
| 2020s | 1,326 | |
What are good nicknames for Kayla?
What names sound and feel like Kayla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kayla also consider these
Common questions about the name Kayla
What does the name Kayla mean?
Kayla means "Hebrew" — 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 Kayla?
Kayla is currently ranked #324 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kayla?
Kayla 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 Kayla?
Kayla is a two-syllable name pronounced K EY1 L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kayla more of a girl or boy name?
Kayla is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.