Rising since 1986, #587 for girls today.
Popularity of Chaya since 1947
Babies named Chaya per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 25 |
| 1950s | 207 |
| 1960s | 279 |
| 1970s | 783 |
| 1980s | 1,586 |
| 1990s | 2,209 |
| 2000s | 3,568 |
| 2010s | 4,122 |
| 2020s | 2,895 |
Meaning & origin
The name Chaya, rooted in Hebrew meaning 'life,' has been in use since at least 1947 in the United States. Its popularity has been on the rise, particularly since 1986, and it reached its peak rank of 587 in 2024. While still modest in usage, the name continues to gain favor, with approximately 1 in every 3221 newborns receiving it as of 2025. Geographically, Chaya is most common in states like New Jersey, New York, and Maryland, reflecting its strong ties to Jewish communities. The name's straightforward meaning and pleasant sound contribute to its enduring appeal.
Chaya derives from the Hebrew word chayyim (life), often interpreted as 'life' or 'living one.' In Jewish tradition, it is a name that affirms vitality and is sometimes given as a feminine form of Chaim. The name has been consistently used among Jewish communities for centuries.
Where Chaya 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.
“Chaya” around the world
Where Chaya lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Quebec
5
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Chay
Sibling names for Chaya
Names that share Chaya's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Chaya
Names whose popularity has moved with Chaya's over the last 50 years.
