What does Shasta mean and where does it come from?
Shasta is derived from Mount Shasta in California, a prominent volcanic peak in the Cascade Range. The name gained popularity in the 1970s, possibly due in part to its connections to nature and the outdoors. It can also refer to a type of sparkling water, adding an element of refreshment to its conn
Cultural significance
Shasta has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name of a mountain; sparkling water.
Peak popularity
Reached #699 in 1978 — currently #16904 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Shasta?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Shasta?
Shasta works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Shasta Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Shasta Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Shasta Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Shasta Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Shasta Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Shasta Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Shasta right now?
Falling — down 7437 spots — currently #16904 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #16904 | 5 | ▼ down 7437 · -55% births |
| 2024 | #9467 | 11 | ▲ up 2554 · +38% births |
| 2023 | #12021 | 8 | ▲ up 60 |
| 2022 | #12081 | 8 | ▲ up 1188 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #13269 | 7 | ▲ up 1948 · +40% births |
| 2020 | #15217 | 5 | ▼ down 7570 · -67% births |
| 2015 | #7647 | 15 | ▼ down 83 · -6% births |
| 2010 | #7564 | 16 | ▼ down 3281 · -50% births |
| 2005 | #4283 | 32 | ▼ down 1417 · -36% births |
| 2000 | #2866 | 50 | ▼ down 734 · -21% births |
| 1995 | #2132 | 63 | ▼ down 872 · -52% births |
| 1990 | #1260 | 130 | ▼ down 353 · -25% births |
| 1985 | #907 | 174 | ▼ down 154 · -21% births |
| 1980 | #753 | 220 | ▲ up 569 · +165% births |
| 1975 | #1322 | 83 | — |
The story of Shasta
Shasta entered American naming records in 1926 and has been in use for over 98 years. With 4,293 total births recorded, Shasta remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5754 in 1950, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12021 in 2023. Shasta is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Shasta in 1978:
Shasta by decade
Shasta peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 8 | |
| 1950s | 93 | |
| 1960s | 102 | |
| 1970s | 1,124 | |
| 1980s ★ | 1,795 | |
| 1990s | 764 | |
| 2000s | 277 | |
| 2010s | 120 | |
| 2020s | 21 | |
💎With 4,293 total births, Shasta is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Shasta?
What names sound and feel like Shasta?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Shasta also consider these
Common questions about the name Shasta
What does the name Shasta mean?
Shasta means "The name of a mountain; sparkling water" — 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 Shasta?
Shasta 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 Shasta?
Shasta 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 Shasta?
Shasta is a two-syllable name pronounced SHAST-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Shasta a common or rare name?
Shasta is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.