Rico

“Rich; wealthy.”

Spanish origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#1628US 2023

107Births / yr

↑Rising

9.4kAll-time births

📅 Since 197000

How to pronounce Rico

REE·koh

/ˈriː.koʊ/ · stress on REE · 2 syllables

“Rich; wealthy.”

Spanish origin · Unisex name

What does Rico mean and where does it come from?

Rico is primarily known as a Spanish name meaning 'rich' or 'wealthy.' Although traditionally a male name, it has recently gained popularity as a feminine name in multicultural contexts, particularly in the United States. Rico is also used in a number of cultural references, including the famous cha

Cultural significance

Rico has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rich; wealthy..

Peak popularity

Reached #5519 in 1970 — currently #1628 in the US.

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How else can you spell Rico?

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

Ricoh

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Rico?

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

Rico Grace

How popular is Rico right now?

Rising — up 20 spots — currently #1628 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1970–2023#1628 · Top 1.2%

1970

1975

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1628	107	▲ up 20 · +2% births
2022	#1648	105	▼ down 202 · -16% births
2021	#1446	125	▲ up 4177 · +1150% births
1975	#5623	10	▼ down 104 · +11% births
1970	#5519	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Rico

Best Year2021Rank #1446

Peak Count125

Average Rank#3173

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1970 - 20235 years

The story of Rico

Rico is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 9,430 total births recorded, Rico remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5519 in 1970 to #1628 in 2023. Rico is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Rico in 1970:

Jennifer Lisa Kimberly Michelle Amy

Rico by decade

Rico peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	26
1920s	53
1930s	29
1940s	50
1950s	177
1960s	459
1970s ★	2,084
1980s	1,851
1990s	1,971
2000s	1,297
2010s	1,314
2020s	119

💎With 9,430 total births, Rico is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Rico?

Common

RicRicieRicy

Famous people named Rico

Rico (Spanish conquistador or explorer)

Rico bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.

Rico (Flamenco artist)

Rico carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.

Rico (Latin American historical figure)

Rico used this name across South and Central America as Spanish naming traditions spread.

Rico (Spanish royal)

Rico held this name in the Spanish Crown, giving it aristocratic resonance across the Hispanic world.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Rico?

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

Rica

Spanish · rich, delicious

Ricco

Italy · strong ruler

Nico

Italy · 胜利者 (Victorious, conqueror)

Japan · three children or

Rito

Spanish · Rito

Rilo

Spanish · little river

Common questions about the name Rico

What does the name Rico mean?

Rico means "Rich; wealthy." — 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 Rico?

Rico 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 Rico?

Rico 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 Rico?

Rico is a two-syllable name pronounced R IY1 K OW0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Rico a common or rare name?

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