“The name Raleigh derives from Old English origins”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 78% boys♀ 22% girls
#1652US 2023
126Births / yr
↑Rising
11.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 192300.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Raleigh
RAW·lee
/ˈrɔ.liː/ · stress on RAW · 2 syllables
“The name Raleigh derives from Old English origins”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Raleigh mean and where does it come from?
The name Raleigh derives from Old English origins. It can be a locational surname, originally denoting someone from the town of Raleigh in North Carolina, which was named after Sir Walter Raleigh, the English adventurer and writer. The name can be used as both a first name and a last name. It has ga
Cultural significance
Raleigh has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1377 in 2016 — currently #1652 in the US.
Rising fast — up 98 spots — currently #1652 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1970–2023#1652 · Top 1.2%
1970
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1652
126
▲ up 98 · +6% births
2022
#1750
119
▼ down 199 · -12% births
2021
#1551
136
▼ down 92 · -7% births
2020
#1459
146
▲ up 24 · -5% births
2015
#1483
154
▲ up 429 · +47% births
2010
#1912
105
▲ up 1298 · +119% births
2005
#3210
48
▲ up 1324 · +85% births
2000
#4534
26
▼ down 1035 · -16% births
1995
#3499
31
▲ up 624 · +29% births
1990
#4123
24
▲ up 2851 · +167% births
1985
#6974
9
▲ up 1064 · +80% births
1970
#8038
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Raleigh
2020Rank #1459
154
#3349
↗Rising
1970 - 202312 years
The story of Raleigh
Raleigh entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. A total of 11,417 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8038 in 1970 to #1652 in 2023. Raleigh is used for both genders: 22% female and 78% male.
Raleigh means "Old English" — 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 Raleigh?
Raleigh is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Raleigh?
Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
Raleigh is a two-syllable name pronounced R AO1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Raleigh a common or rare name?
Raleigh is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Raleigh
For a sister
Raleigh & Avery♡
Raleigh & Madison♡
Raleigh & Ivy♡
Raleigh & Willow♡
For a brother
Raleigh & Oliver♡
Raleigh & Elijah♡
Raleigh & Hudson♡
Raleigh & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1652
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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