A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Carmella since 1891
Babies named Carmella per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 107 |
| 1900s | 444 |
| 1910s | 2,863 |
| 1920s | 4,761 |
| 1930s | 2,392 |
| 1940s | 1,541 |
| 1950s | 1,465 |
| 1960s | 1,408 |
| 1970s | 879 |
| 1980s | 690 |
| 1990s | 456 |
| 2000s | 1,111 |
| 2010s | 1,553 |
| 2020s | 983 |
Meaning & origin
Carmella is a name with deep Italian Catholic roots, having peaked in popularity in the United States in 1922 when it ranked at its highest. After declining over the mid-20th century, it has been on a slow rise since 1994. In 2025, it ranked 1,285th with about 1 in 9,237 baby girls receiving the name. The name is most common in states with strong Italian-American communities, such as Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, reflecting its enduring ethnic heritage. Its melodic sound and association with the Virgin Mary under the title Our Lady of Mount Carmel give it a classic, dignified feel.
Carmella is an Italian form of Carmela, itself derived from the Hebrew name Carmel, referring to Mount Carmel in Israel. The name's meaning is uncertain, often interpreted as 'garden' or 'vineyard of God.' It became popular among Italian Catholics due to the devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The name arrived in the United States with Italian immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Where Carmella 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: Carma, Mella, Cammie, Ella
Sibling names for Carmella
Names that share Carmella's style, for a brother or sister.
