What does Mila mean and where does it come from?
Mila has Slavic origins, derived from 'milý', meaning 'gracious' or 'dear'. It has also gained popularity in Spanish-speaking countries, where it is associated with miracles. The name carries a warm and affectionate connotation. Mila has become a trendy name in recent years, with famous bearers, suc
Cultural significance
Mila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Slavic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of slavic.
Peak popularity
Reached #14 in 2018 — currently #28 in the US.
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Related Reading
Slavic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Mila?
Mila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Mila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Mila Claire
French influence · crisp
Mila Jane
Literary · strong
Mila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Mila right now?
Declining — down 10 spots — currently #28 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #28 | 5,913 | ▼ down 10 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #18 | 6,485 | ▲ up 8 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #26 | 6,336 | ▼ down 6 · -4% births |
| 2020 | #20 | 6,602 | ▲ up 33 · +40% births |
| 2015 | #53 | 4,730 | ▲ up 310 · +437% births |
| 2010 | #363 | 881 | ▲ up 658 · +270% births |
| 2005 | #1021 | 238 | ▲ up 1069 · +205% births |
| 2000 | #2090 | 78 | ▲ up 2941 · +311% births |
| 1995 | #5031 | 19 | ▼ down 496 · -10% births |
| 1990 | #4535 | 21 | ▼ down 798 · -5% births |
| 1985 | #3737 | 22 | ▲ up 266 · +16% births |
| 1980 | #4003 | 19 | ▼ down 1021 · -21% births |
| 1975 | #2982 | 24 | ▼ down 36 · +4% births |
| 1970 | #2946 | 23 | ▼ down 395 |
| 1965 | #2551 | 23 | — |
The story of Mila
Mila has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. Its peak popularity was #14 in 2018. A total of 55,379 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1136 in 1890 to #28 in 2023. Mila is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Mila in 2018:
Mila by decade
Mila peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 10 | |
| 1890s | 25 | |
| 1900s | 30 | |
| 1910s | 99 | |
| 1920s | 178 | |
| 1930s | 142 | |
| 1940s | 168 | |
| 1950s | 230 | |
| 1960s | 258 | |
| 1970s | 206 | |
| 1980s | 168 | |
| 1990s | 311 | |
| 2000s | 2,884 | |
| 2010s ★ | 44,058 | |
| 2020s | 6,612 | |
What are good nicknames for Mila?
What names sound and feel like Mila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mila also consider these
How is Mila written in other languages?
Macedonian), Міла
Ukrainian
Common questions about the name Mila
What does the name Mila mean?
Mila means "Slavic" — a name rooted in Slavic 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 Mila?
Mila is currently ranked #28 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 Mila?
Mila originates from Slavic tradition. Slavic 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 Mila?
Mila is a two-syllable name pronounced M AY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Mila more of a girl or boy name?
Mila is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.