Milford

“Mill ford; a ford at a mill”

English origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#1806US 2023

394Births / yr

→Stable

8.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 192300

How to pronounce Milford

MILF·erd

/ˈmɪlf.ɝd/ · stress on MILF · 2 syllables

“Mill ford; a ford at a mill”

English origin · Unisex name

What does Milford mean and where does it come from?

Milford is predominantly a masculine name historically but has seen usage as a female name. It originates from Old English, combining elements meaning 'mill' and 'ford'. Usage of Milford can be found in place names across England and the USA. It has become increasingly rare as a personal name.

Cultural significance

Milford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of mill ford; a ford at a mill.

Peak popularity

Reached #3776 in 1935 — currently #1806 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Milford?

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

Milford Grace

How popular is Milford right now?

Holding steady — currently #1806 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1935–2023#1806 · Top 1.3%

1935

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1806	394	▲ up 5 · +5% births
2022	#1811	374	▲ up 5 · +9% births
2021	#1816	344	▲ up 1960 · +5633% births
1935	#3776	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Milford

Best Year2023Rank #1806

Peak Count394

Average Rank#2302

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1935 - 20234 years

The story of Milford

Milford entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. With 8,205 total births recorded, Milford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3776 in 1935 to #1806 in 2023. Milford is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Milford in 1935:

Mary Shirley Barbara Betty Patricia

Milford by decade

Milford peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	93
1890s	133
1900s	226
1910s	1,487
1920s ★	2,179
1930s	1,478
1940s	1,131
1950s	701
1960s	414
1970s	211
1980s	111
1990s	35
2000s	6

💎With 8,205 total births, Milford is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Milford?

Common

MilMiIlford

What names sound and feel like Milford?

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

Wilford

English · desiring peace

Millard

English · English

Millerd

English · one who grinds

Gilford

England · A gift from

Milferd

American · English

Tilford

United Kingdom · Ford by the

Monford

English · Old English

Mulford

United Kingdom · from the mill

Common questions about the name Milford

What does the name Milford mean?

Milford means "Mill ford; a ford at a mill" — 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 Milford?

Milford is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Milford?

Milford 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 Milford?

Milford is a two-syllable name pronounced M IH1 L F ER0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Milford a common or rare name?

Milford is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.