A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Eldon since 1881
Babies named Eldon per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 60 |
| 1890s | 117 |
| 1900s | 295 |
| 1910s | 3,121 |
| 1920s | 5,947 |
| 1930s | 5,282 |
| 1940s | 4,039 |
| 1950s | 2,523 |
| 1960s | 1,370 |
| 1970s | 924 |
| 1980s | 582 |
| 1990s | 438 |
| 2000s | 456 |
| 2010s | 578 |
| 2020s | 370 |
Meaning & origin
Eldon is a name with English roots, originally a surname tied to place names. Its recorded use as a given name dates to 1881, and it saw peak popularity in 1926. After decades of decline, it has been on a rising trajectory since 2002, suggesting a modest revival. The name has been most common in Washington, Illinois, and California, reflecting a broad but sparse distribution. With a current rank of 2,304 and an incidence of 1 in 28,468 boys in 2025, Eldon remains an uncommon choice with a vintage feel.
Eldon originated as an English surname taken from place names such as Eldon in County Durham. The place name likely derives from the Old English feminine personal name Ella combined with 'dun', meaning 'hill', or from 'eald' meaning 'old' and 'dun', hence 'old hill'. As a given name, it came into use in the 19th century, particularly in the United States and Canada.
Where Eldon 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Eli, Don, Eldy
Sibling names for Eldon
Names that share Eldon's style, for a brother or sister.
