Nels
boy name#4539 in 2025Nels entered the US charts in 1880, peaked at #306 in 1884, ranks #4539 today — a rare gem few children share.
Popularity 1880–2025
#4539
rank today
#306
peak (1884)
22
babies in 2025
rare
a rare gem few children share
Rank by decade
| Decade | Average rank |
|---|---|
| 1880s | #398 |
| 1890s | #448 |
| 1900s | #774 |
| 1910s | #866 |
| 1920s | #1138 |
| 1930s | #1205 |
| 1940s | #1175 |
| 1950s | #1110 |
| 1960s | #1344 |
| 1970s | #1779 |
| 1980s | #2266 |
| 1990s | #4329 |
| 2000s | #6482 |
| 2010s | #6393 |
| 2020s | #4948 |
Strongest states
Over the last decade, Nels has been most popular in MN.
Living bearers
About 1,900 people named Nels are estimated to be alive in the US today.
The typical Nels 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 Nels in 2025?
- Nels ranks #4539 among US boy names in 2025, with 22 babies given the name.
- When was the name Nels most popular?
- Nels peaked in 1884, reaching #306 among US boy names.
- Will my child share the name Nels with classmates?
- Nels will almost certainly be the only one in school.
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