Declining since 1989, #778 for boys today.
Popularity of Corey since 1919
Babies named Corey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 5 |
| 1920s | 21 |
| 1930s | 15 |
| 1940s | 223 |
| 1950s | 1,856 |
| 1960s | 9,968 |
| 1970s | 41,000 |
| 1980s | 53,598 |
| 1990s | 50,223 |
| 2000s | 17,468 |
| 2010s | 7,990 |
| 2020s | 2,653 |
Meaning & origin
Corey first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1919, but its use surged in the mid-20th century, peaking in 1989 when it was most frequently chosen. By 2025, the name had fallen to rank 778, with about 1 in 5,223 boys receiving it, reflecting a steady decline since its 1989 peak. The name has been especially favored in southern states, with Louisiana, South Carolina, and Mississippi among the top locations. Its uncertain etymology may derive from Irish or Old Norse roots, contributing to its widespread appeal during the 1980s and 1990s.
Corey may derive from the Irish surname Ó Comhraidhe, meaning 'descendant of Comhraidhe,' a personal name of uncertain meaning. Alternatively, it could be from the Old Norse name Kori or an Anglicization of a Gaelic surname. The name gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century, especially in the 1980s.
Where Corey is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Corey” around the world
Where Corey lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Ireland
7
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cor
Sibling names for Corey
Names that share Corey's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Erin, Megan, Caitlin, Brittany, Shannon, Robyn, Taryn, Tracy, Corrie, Corrine, Karey, Kary, Dori, Jeanelle, Shanel, Torrie, Andee, Corianne, Correne, Korrie, Shaundra, Tykeria, Cotina, Junelle, Kerie, Sharonica, Tonee, Chelly, Danique, Rickell, Taci
Brothers: Ryan, Kevin, Sean, Brian, Dylan, Coty, Jestin, Kirby, Terrel, Levelle, Sharrod, Cortavius, Derec, Yarnell
Names like Corey
Names whose popularity has moved with Corey's over the last 50 years.
