Preston

“Originally a surname meaning 'priest's town.'”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls

#275US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

↓Falling

117.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 191600

How to pronounce Preston

PREST·un

/ˈprɛst.ən/ · stress on PREST · 2 syllables

“Originally a surname meaning 'priest's town.'”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Preston mean and where does it come from?

While predominantly a male name, Preston has also been adopted by some females as a unisex option. The name has English origins, linked to various places named Preston in the UK. Its historical bearing adds a classic vibe, and it has been increasingly popular as a first name in modern times. Preston

Cultural significance

Preston has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of originally a surname meaning 'priest's town.'.

Peak popularity

Reached #2862 in 1930 — currently #275 in the US.

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How else can you spell Preston?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Presten

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Preston?

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

Preston Grace

How popular is Preston right now?

Declining — down 20 spots — currently #275 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1930–2023#275 · Top 0.20%

1930

1955

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#275	1,230	▼ down 20 · -9% births
2022	#255	1,353	▼ down 14 · -8% births
2021	#241	1,472	▲ up 5796 · +7647% births
2020	#6037	19	▲ up 400
2015	#6437	19	▲ up 1444 · +27% births
2010	#7881	15	▼ down 736 · -6% births
2005	#7145	16	▼ down 2350 · -33% births
2000	#4795	24	▲ up 1858 · +85% births
1995	#6653	13	▲ up 1863 · +44% births
1990	#8516	9	▼ down 169 · +29% births
1985	#8347	7	▲ up 2083 · +40% births
1980	#10430	5	▼ down 4577
1955	#5853	5	▼ down 2991 · -50% births
1930	#2862	10	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Preston

Best Year2021Rank #241

Peak Count1,472

Average Rank#5409

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1930 - 202314 years

The story of Preston

Preston entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. More than 117,331 babies have been named Preston since 1916. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2862 in 1930 to #275 in 2023. Preston is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.

Names that peaked alongside Preston in 1930:

Mary Betty Dorothy Helen Margaret

Preston by decade

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

Decade	Births
1880s	458
1890s	514
1900s	739
1910s	3,068
1920s	4,250
1930s	3,450
1940s	4,513
1950s	5,182
1960s	4,808
1970s	5,539
1980s	10,325
1990s	17,195
2000s ★	30,484
2010s	25,149
2020s	1,657

What are good nicknames for Preston?

Common

PrePriePryEston

What names sound and feel like Preston?

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

Treston

American · a combination of

Creston

American · English

Kreston

American · follower of Christ

Prestan

American · From the priest's

Reston

American · from the rest

Peyton

American · from the farm

Weston

American · From the west

Prestin

American · from the priest's

Common questions about the name Preston

What does the name Preston mean?

Preston means "Originally a surname meaning 'priest's town.'" — a name rooted in American 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 Preston?

Preston is currently ranked #275 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 Preston?

Preston originates from American tradition. American 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 Preston?

Preston is a two-syllable name pronounced P R EH1 S T AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Preston more of a girl or boy name?

Preston is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.