A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Crawford since 1880
Babies named Crawford per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1924, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Crawford's real moment was 1896.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 114 |
| 1890s | 118 |
| 1900s | 147 |
| 1910s | 551 |
| 1920s | 643 |
| 1930s | 459 |
| 1940s | 436 |
| 1950s | 405 |
| 1960s | 265 |
| 1970s | 148 |
| 1980s | 156 |
| 1990s | 179 |
| 2000s | 227 |
| 2010s | 512 |
| 2020s | 350 |
Meaning & origin
Crawford is a surname-turned-first-name that has been in consistent if modest use in the United States since 1880, the first year of Social Security data. Its peak year came early in 1896, and after a long decline, it has been on a gradual upward trajectory since 1992. In 2025, the name ranked 2,091, with approximately 1 in 24,401 boys receiving it. The name has seen notable usage in states like Alabama, Texas, and Georgia, reflecting a Southern affinity for surname-style first names. Crawford offers a sturdy, preppy feel without being overly common, appealing to parents seeking a distinguished but approachable option.
Crawford is derived from a place name in Scotland, specifically Crawford in Lanarkshire. The name combines Old English 'crāwe' (crow) and 'ford' (ford), denoting a ford frequented by crows. As a given name, it emerged in the 19th century, following the Victorian fashion for using surnames as first names. It has been in steady use in the United States since at least 1880.
Where Crawford is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Craw
Sibling names for Crawford
Names that share Crawford's style, for a brother or sister.
