Barbara
girl name#968 in 2025Barbara entered the US charts in 1880, peaked at #2 in 1937, ranks #968 today — a steady, dependable choice.
Popularity 1880–2025
#968
rank today
#2
peak (1937)
264
babies in 2025
stable
a steady, dependable choice
Rank by decade
| Decade | Average rank |
|---|---|
| 1880s | #133 |
| 1890s | #153 |
| 1900s | #148 |
| 1910s | #88 |
| 1920s | #25 |
| 1930s | #3 |
| 1940s | #3 |
| 1950s | #7 |
| 1960s | #23 |
| 1970s | #80 |
| 1980s | #156 |
| 1990s | #331 |
| 2000s | #603 |
| 2010s | #845 |
| 2020s | #908 |
Strongest states
Over the last decade, Barbara has been most popular in TX, CA, PA.
Living bearers
About 865,000 people named Barbara are estimated to be alive in the US today.
The typical Barbara alive today was born around 1948, making them about 77 years old.
Estimated from official SSA birth records and life tables.
Names similar in popularity
Frequently asked questions
- How popular is the name Barbara in 2025?
- Barbara ranks #968 among US girl names in 2025, with 264 babies given the name.
- When was the name Barbara most popular?
- Barbara peaked in 1937, reaching #2 among US girl names.
- Will my child share the name Barbara with classmates?
- Barbara will almost certainly be the only one in school.
Torn between Barbara and another name?
Put them head to head — full stats, history and a verdict.
Start a name battle