William
boy name#9 in 2025William entered the US charts in 1880, peaked at #2 in 1880, ranks #9 today — a name gently stepping back from its peak.
Popularity 1880–2025
#9
rank today
#2
peak (1880)
10,545
babies in 2025
falling
a name gently stepping back from its peak
Rank by decade
| Decade | Average rank |
|---|---|
| 1880s | #2 |
| 1890s | #2 |
| 1900s | #2 |
| 1910s | #2 |
| 1920s | #3 |
| 1930s | #4 |
| 1940s | #4 |
| 1950s | #6 |
| 1960s | #7 |
| 1970s | #10 |
| 1980s | #15 |
| 1990s | #18 |
| 2000s | #9 |
| 2010s | #4 |
| 2020s | #8 |
Strongest states
Over the last decade, William has been most popular in TX, CA, FL.
Living bearers
About 2,248,000 people named William are estimated to be alive in the US today.
The typical William alive today was born around 1951, making them about 74 years old.
Estimated from official SSA birth records and life tables.
Names similar in popularity
Frequently asked questions
- How popular is the name William in 2025?
- William ranks #9 among US boy names in 2025, with 10,545 babies given the name.
- When was the name William most popular?
- William peaked in 1880, reaching #2 among US boy names.
- Will my child share the name William with classmates?
- Roughly 1 in 6 classrooms will have a William.
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