Rising since 1985, #217 for boys today.
Popularity of Baker since 1895
Babies named Baker per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 0 | 11 |
| 1900s | 0 | 10 |
| 1910s | 0 | 84 |
| 1920s | 0 | 122 |
| 1930s | 0 | 56 |
| 1940s | 0 | 69 |
| 1950s | 0 | 37 |
| 1960s | 0 | 13 |
| 1970s | 0 | 28 |
| 1980s | 0 | 73 |
| 1990s | 0 | 193 |
| 2000s | 18 | 415 |
| 2010s | 160 | 1,656 |
| 2020s | 570 | 5,467 |
Meaning & origin
Baker first appeared as a given name in the United States in 1895, but it has seen a steady rise in popularity since 1985. In 2025, it reached its peak rank of 217, with approximately 1 in every 1,042 male newborns being named Baker. The name is most popular in North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, reflecting a regional preference for occupational and surname-names. Its straightforward meaning and modern feel make it a strong choice for parents seeking a name that is both familiar and distinctive.
Baker is an occupational surname of Old English origin, derived from the word 'bæcere' meaning 'baker'. It was first used as a given name in the late 19th century, reflecting the fashion for surname-names that began in the early modern period and gained popularity in the United States.
Where Baker is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bake, Baks
Sibling names for Baker
Names that share Baker's style, for a brother or sister.
