What does Rica mean and where does it come from?
Originating from Spanish-speaking countries, Rica comes from the adjective meaning 'rich' or 'delicious', often used in the context of food. In Hawaiian, it suggests tranquility or calmness. The name can also be seen as a diminutive of names like Enrica and Frederica. Its use as a given name has bec
Cultural significance
Rica has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rich, delicious.
Peak popularity
Reached #2870 in 1914 — currently #826 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Rica?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Rica?
Rica works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Rica Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Rica Rose
Floral · soft ending
Rica Claire
French influence · crisp
Rica Jane
Literary · strong
Rica Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Rica right now?
Holding steady — currently #826 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #826 | 1,374 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #831 | 1,354 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #836 | 1,324 | ▲ up 14240 · +21967% births |
| 2010 | #15076 | 6 | ▼ down 3162 · -25% births |
| 2005 | #11914 | 8 | ▼ down 2677 · -20% births |
| 2000 | #9237 | 10 | ▼ down 1082 |
| 1995 | #8155 | 10 | ▼ down 2821 · -41% births |
| 1990 | #5334 | 17 | ▲ up 80 · +31% births |
| 1985 | #5414 | 13 | ▼ down 1036 · -24% births |
| 1980 | #4378 | 17 | ▲ up 2220 · +113% births |
| 1975 | #6598 | 8 | ▼ down 1088 · -11% births |
| 1970 | #5510 | 9 | ▼ down 582 · +50% births |
| 1950 | #4928 | 6 | — |
The story of Rica
Rica entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 520 total births recorded, Rica remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4928 in 1950 to #826 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Rica in 1914:
Rica by decade
Rica peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 8 | |
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1950s | 39 | |
| 1960s | 31 | |
| 1970s | 122 | |
| 1980s ★ | 140 | |
| 1990s | 126 | |
| 2000s | 33 | |
| 2010s | 11 | |
💎Rica has only 520 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Rica?
Famous people named Rica
R(
Rica (Flamenco artist)
Rica carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
R(
Rica (Latin American historical figure)
Rica used this name across South and Central America as Spanish naming traditions spread.
R(
Rica (Spanish royal)
Rica held this name in the Spanish Crown, giving it aristocratic resonance across the Hispanic world.
R(
Rica (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Rica bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Rica?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Rica also consider these
How is Rica written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Rica?
Common questions about the name Rica
What does the name Rica mean?
Rica means "rich, delicious" — a name rooted in Spanish 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 Rica?
Rica is currently ranked #826 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Rica?
Rica originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish 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 Rica?
Rica is a two-syllable name pronounced R IY1 K AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Rica a common or rare name?
Rica is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.