What does Nola mean and where does it come from?
Nola has its origins in Ireland and can be traced back to the Irish name Fionnuala. It is often associated with a city in Louisiana, making it especially popular in the United States. Nola has become more prevalent as a standalone name in recent years. Notable people named Nola include Nola Ochs, a
Cultural significance
Nola has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of famous; from the place of the fair; known.
Peak popularity
Reached #253 in 1894 — currently #740 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Nola?
Nola works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Nola Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Nola Rose
Floral · soft ending
Nola Claire
French influence · crisp
Nola Jane
Literary · strong
Nola Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Nola right now?
Falling — down 113 spots — currently #740 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #740 | 380 | ▼ down 113 · -19% births |
| 2022 | #627 | 472 | ▼ down 32 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #595 | 503 | ▼ down 42 · -6% births |
| 2020 | #553 | 533 | ▲ up 213 · +45% births |
| 2015 | #766 | 368 | ▲ up 91 · +18% births |
| 2010 | #857 | 313 | ▲ up 998 · +201% births |
| 2005 | #1855 | 104 | ▲ up 998 · +108% births |
| 2000 | #2853 | 50 | ▲ up 814 · +72% births |
| 1995 | #3667 | 29 | ▲ up 451 · +21% births |
| 1990 | #4118 | 24 | ▼ down 1369 · -29% births |
| 1985 | #2749 | 34 | ▼ down 256 · -11% births |
| 1980 | #2493 | 38 | ▼ down 358 · -5% births |
| 1975 | #2135 | 40 | ▼ down 628 · -39% births |
| 1970 | #1507 | 66 | ▼ down 418 · -28% births |
| 1965 | #1089 | 92 | — |
The story of Nola
Nola has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 24,199 babies have received this name. Once ranked #340 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #740 in 2023. Nola is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Nola in 1894:
Nola by decade
Nola peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 424 | |
| 1890s | 929 | |
| 1900s | 1,334 | |
| 1910s | 2,630 | |
| 1920s | 3,172 | |
| 1930s | 3,001 | |
| 1940s | 2,475 | |
| 1950s | 2,183 | |
| 1960s | 1,130 | |
| 1970s | 516 | |
| 1980s | 420 | |
| 1990s | 305 | |
| 2000s | 1,460 | |
| 2010s ★ | 3,687 | |
| 2020s | 533 | |
What are good nicknames for Nola?
What names sound and feel like Nola?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Nola also consider these
How is Nola written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Nola
What does the name Nola mean?
Nola means "Famous; from the place of the fair; known" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Nola?
Nola is currently ranked #740 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 Nola?
Nola originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 Nola?
Nola is a two-syllable name pronounced N OW1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Nola more of a girl or boy name?
Nola is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.