What does Sofia mean and where does it come from?
The name Sofia originates from the Greek word 'sophia' which means wisdom. It is popular across many countries, being borne by several royal figures, including Sofia of Sweden and Sofia, Duchess of York. The name's popularity surged during the Middle Ages and has consistently remained a top choice a
Cultural significance
Sofia has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #9 in 2025 — currently #9 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Sofia?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Sofia?
Sofia works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sofia Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Sofia Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Sofia Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Sofia Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Sofia Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Sofia Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Sofia right now?
Holding steady — currently #9 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #9 | 8,252 | ▲ up 1 · +2% births |
| 2024 | #10 | 8,113 | ▲ up 2 · +6% births |
| 2023 | #12 | 7,665 | ▲ up 1 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #13 | 7,280 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #18 | 6,980 | ▼ down 1 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #17 | 6,926 | ▼ down 3 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #14 | 9,690 | ▲ up 14 · +53% births |
| 2010 | #28 | 6,327 | ▲ up 24 · +23% births |
| 2005 | #52 | 5,161 | ▲ up 109 · +147% births |
| 2000 | #161 | 2,093 | ▲ up 267 · +245% births |
| 1995 | #428 | 607 | ▲ up 217 · +74% births |
| 1990 | #645 | 348 | ▲ up 38 · +32% births |
| 1985 | #683 | 264 | ▲ up 138 · +38% births |
| 1980 | #821 | 191 | ▲ up 44 · +23% births |
| 1975 | #865 | 155 | — |
The story of Sofia
Sofia has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. Its peak popularity was #12 in 2014. More than 148,356 babies have been named Sofia since 1881. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1048 in 1890 to #12 in 2023. Sofia is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Sofia in 2025:
Sofia by decade
Sofia peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 45 | |
| 1890s | 113 | |
| 1900s | 166 | |
| 1910s | 429 | |
| 1920s | 628 | |
| 1930s | 454 | |
| 1940s | 380 | |
| 1950s | 515 | |
| 1960s | 898 | |
| 1970s | 1,578 | |
| 1980s | 2,640 | |
| 1990s | 7,829 | |
| 2000s | 43,410 | |
| 2010s ★ | 82,337 | |
| 2020s | 23,313 | |
What are good nicknames for Sofia?
What names sound and feel like Sofia?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sofia also consider these
How is Sofia written in other languages?
Bulgarian), Софія
Ukrainian
Common questions about the name Sofia
What does the name Sofia mean?
Sofia means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Sofia?
Sofia is currently ranked #12 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Sofia?
Sofia originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Sofia more of a girl or boy name?
Sofia is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Sofia?
Sofia naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.