Declining since 2020, #3,028 for girls today.
Popularity of Aalayah since 1994
Babies named Aalayah per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 49 |
| 2000s | 278 |
| 2010s | 599 |
| 2020s | 350 |
Meaning & origin
Aalayah is a modern respelling of Aaliyah that first appeared in U.S. records in 1994, reflecting the trend of creative phonetic spellings. Its rank of 3,028 in 2025 places it as a relatively uncommon choice, with a concentration in top states Florida and California, suggesting a cultural resonance in diverse urban areas. The name reached its peak in 2019, and has been falling in usage since 2020, following a trajectory that mirrors the ebb of many respelled names after a brief peak. The name's 1-in-29,764 frequency underscores its rarity, making it a distinctive option for parents seeking a melodic sound with contemporary flair.
Aalayah is a modern respelling of Aaliyah, which itself derives from the Arabic 'Aliyah' (عَالِيَة), meaning 'exalted' or 'sublime.' The name gained prominence in the United States after the rise of singer Aaliyah in the 1990s. The variant spelling with double 'a' emerged as part of a trend toward unique phonetic respellings, particularly in African American communities.
Where Aalayah is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ali, Liyah, Yaya
Sibling names for Aalayah
Names that share Aalayah's style, for a brother or sister.
