“Steep ford” — Associated with the town of Stafford in England
England origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#7235US 2023
12Births / yr
↓Falling
2.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 188200.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Stafford
STAF·erd
/ˈstæf.ɝd/ · stress on STAF · 2 syllables
“Steep ford”
Associated with the town of Stafford in England · England origin
What does Stafford mean and where does it come from?
Stafford is of Old English origin and historically has been used as both a first name and surname. The name is associated with the town of Stafford in England, which has roots dating back to the 8th century. First recorded use is seen in medieval times. The use of Stafford as a first name can indica
Cultural significance
Stafford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of steep ford.
Falling — down 1832 spots — currently #7235 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1905–2023#7235 · Top 5.3%
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#7235
12
▼ down 1832 · -33% births
2022
#5403
18
▲ up 898 · +29% births
2021
#6301
14
▼ down 346
2020
#5955
14
▲ up 40
2015
#5995
14
▲ up 1599 · +40% births
2010
#7594
10
▼ down 3195 · -41% births
2000
#4399
17
▼ down 835 · -6% births
1995
#3564
18
▼ down 386 · -5% births
1990
#3178
19
▼ down 452 · +6% births
1985
#2726
18
▲ up 723 · +50% births
1980
#3449
12
▼ down 1687 · -57% births
1975
#1762
28
▼ down 496 · -35% births
1970
#1266
43
▼ down 94 · +2% births
1965
#1172
42
▲ up 28 · -2% births
1960
#1200
43
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Stafford
1935Rank #983
43
#2892
↘Falling
1905 - 202326 years
The story of Stafford
Stafford has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 2,762 total births recorded, Stafford remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1176 in 1905, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #7235 in 2023.
Stafford means "Steep ford" — a name rooted in England 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 Stafford?
Stafford is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Stafford have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Stafford?
Stafford originates from England tradition. England 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 Stafford?
Stafford is a two-syllable name pronounced S T AE1 F ER0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Stafford trending right now?
Stafford is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Stafford
For a sister
Stafford & Grace♡
Stafford & Lucy♡
Stafford & Margaret♡
Stafford & Edwin♡
For a brother
Stafford & Edwin♡
Stafford & Edgar♡
Stafford & Louisa♡
Stafford & Hansford♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#7235
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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