Rising since 1998, #2,480 for boys today.
Popularity of Bauer since 1996
Babies named Bauer per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 15 |
| 2000s | 161 |
| 2010s | 395 |
| 2020s | 298 |
Meaning & origin
Bauer is a German surname turned given name that entered the U.S. charts in 1996, when it was first recorded. As of 2025, it ranks 2480th, with about 1 in 31631 boys receiving the name that year. It reached its peak popularity in 2019, and has been on a rising trajectory since 1998. The name is most common in Iowa and Minnesota, reflecting its German heritage. Bauer remains an uncommon choice, appealing to parents seeking a strong occupational surname with clear European roots. Its rarity and straightforward pronunciation make it a distinctive option that has slowly gained modest usage over the past few decades.
Bauer is a German occupational surname meaning 'farmer' or 'peasant', derived from Middle High German 'būwære' (builder, dweller). As a given name, it emerged in the late 20th century, following the trend of adopting surnames as first names. It remains rare in the United States, first recorded in 1996 and slowly rising in use.
Where Bauer is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Bauer
Names that share Bauer's style, for a brother or sister.
