Nelson
boy name#824 in 2025Nelson entered the US charts in 1880, peaked at #134 in 1882, ranks #824 today — a name gently stepping back from its peak.
Popularity 1880–2025
#824
rank today
#134
peak (1882)
300
babies in 2025
falling
a name gently stepping back from its peak
Rank by decade
| Decade | Average rank |
|---|---|
| 1880s | #160 |
| 1890s | #167 |
| 1900s | #178 |
| 1910s | #183 |
| 1920s | #197 |
| 1930s | #200 |
| 1940s | #207 |
| 1950s | #237 |
| 1960s | #259 |
| 1970s | #285 |
| 1980s | #299 |
| 1990s | #351 |
| 2000s | #447 |
| 2010s | #611 |
| 2020s | #765 |
Strongest states
Over the last decade, Nelson has been most popular in CA, TX, NY.
Living bearers
About 50,500 people named Nelson are estimated to be alive in the US today.
The typical Nelson alive today was born around 1960, making them about 65 years old.
Estimated from official SSA birth records and life tables.
Names similar in popularity
Frequently asked questions
- How popular is the name Nelson in 2025?
- Nelson ranks #824 among US boy names in 2025, with 300 babies given the name.
- When was the name Nelson most popular?
- Nelson peaked in 1882, reaching #134 among US boy names.
- Will my child share the name Nelson with classmates?
- Nelson will almost certainly be the only one in school.
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