Carter
boy name#45 in 2025Carter entered the US charts in 1881, peaked at #24 in 2015, ranks #45 today — a name gently stepping back from its peak.
Popularity 1881–2025
#45
rank today
#24
peak (2015)
6,024
babies in 2025
falling
a name gently stepping back from its peak
Rank by decade
| Decade | Average rank |
|---|---|
| 1880s | #528 |
| 1890s | #565 |
| 1900s | #533 |
| 1910s | #617 |
| 1920s | #686 |
| 1930s | #651 |
| 1940s | #549 |
| 1950s | #578 |
| 1960s | #661 |
| 1970s | #747 |
| 1980s | #735 |
| 1990s | #344 |
| 2000s | #91 |
| 2010s | #31 |
| 2020s | #43 |
Strongest states
Over the last decade, Carter has been most popular in TX, CA, FL.
Living bearers
About 201,000 people named Carter are estimated to be alive in the US today.
The typical Carter is a kid of about 12 — this name's wave is very recent.
Estimated from official SSA birth records and life tables.
Names similar in popularity
Frequently asked questions
- How popular is the name Carter in 2025?
- Carter ranks #45 among US boy names in 2025, with 6,024 babies given the name.
- When was the name Carter most popular?
- Carter peaked in 2015, reaching #24 among US boy names.
- Will my child share the name Carter with classmates?
- Carter will almost certainly be the only one in school.
Torn between Carter and another name?
Put them head to head — full stats, history and a verdict.
Start a name battle