Camden

Meaning & origin

Camden entered the U.S. Social Security Administration records as early as 1915, but it remained rare for decades. The name surged in popularity during the 2000s and 2010s, mirroring the rise of similar surname-style names like Brayden and Carter. Camden reached its peak rank in 2013 and has since trended downward, reflecting a broader shift away from names that were extremely popular in the early 21st century. In 2025, the name ranked 205th, with an incidence of about 1 in 992 newborn boys. Top states for the name include North Dakota, New Hampshire, and South Dakota, indicating a stronger preference in the Midwest and Northern Plains. While Camden is sometimes used for girls, the vast majority of bearers are male, consistent with its origins as a surname adapting to a first name.

The name Camden is derived from a Scottish surname, itself from a place name in Scotland. The place name is believed to come from Gaelic elements meaning 'winding valley' or 'enclosed valley', though the exact meaning is debated. Camden gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, influenced by surnames used as given names.