Declining since 1997, #3,389 for girls today.
Popularity of Carli since 1957
Babies named Carli per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 6 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 351 |
| 1980s | 1,252 |
| 1990s | 3,034 |
| 2000s | 2,506 |
| 2010s | 1,399 |
| 2020s | 419 |
Meaning & origin
Carli first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 1957, but its most notable surge came during the 1990s, peaking in 1996. Since 1997, its use has been declining, reflecting a broader trend away from names ending in the 'ee' sound. The name is most commonly found in Florida and California, consistent with its fashionable modern feel. Though its rank has fallen to 3,389th in 2025, Carli remains a recognizable and straightforward choice for parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name.
Carli is a variant spelling of Carly, itself a feminine diminutive of Carl, which derives from the Old German word 'karl' meaning 'free man'. The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world as a modern, streamlined alternative to Carla or Caroline, with the 'i' ending adding a fashionable twist in the late 20th century.
Where Carli 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Carls
Sibling names for Carli
Names that share Carli's style, for a brother or sister.
