Declining since 2000, #1,592 for girls today.
Popularity of Calista since 1894
Babies named Calista per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 31 |
| 1900s | 28 |
| 1910s | 128 |
| 1920s | 113 |
| 1930s | 83 |
| 1940s | 85 |
| 1950s | 88 |
| 1960s | 111 |
| 1970s | 220 |
| 1980s | 310 |
| 1990s | 1,056 |
| 2000s | 2,733 |
| 2010s | 1,764 |
| 2020s | 754 |
Meaning & origin
Calista is a name of Greek origin that has maintained a steady, though modest, presence in the United States. First recorded in 1894, it saw its peak popularity in 1999. As of 2025, the name ranks 1,592, with 1 in every 12,269 baby girls receiving the name. Its trajectory has been falling since the early 2000s. Calista is most frequently found in the top states of Washington, Ohio, and California. The name carries a lyrical elegance, often associated with beauty through its Greek roots, and has remained a distinctive choice for parents drawn to classic yet uncommon names.
Calista is a name of Greek origin, derived from 'kallistos' meaning 'most beautiful'. It may also be related to the Greek word 'kalux' meaning 'cup'. The name has been used in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, often in literary contexts.
Where Calista is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Calista” around the world
Where Calista lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
50
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Callie, Cali, Lissie
Sibling names for Calista
Names that share Calista's style, for a brother or sister.
