Declining since 1985, #5,861 for boys today.
Popularity of Erich since 1894
Babies named Erich per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 31 |
| 1900s | 22 |
| 1910s | 180 |
| 1920s | 218 |
| 1930s | 253 |
| 1940s | 365 |
| 1950s | 800 |
| 1960s | 1,946 |
| 1970s | 2,643 |
| 1980s | 2,360 |
| 1990s | 1,673 |
| 2000s | 758 |
| 2010s | 322 |
| 2020s | 103 |
Meaning & origin
Erich is the classic German form of Eric, a name with deep roots in Old Norse and Germanic tradition. In the United States, it first appeared in records in 1894, but its usage peaked in 1971, when it reached its highest rank. Since 1985, however, its popularity has been in steady decline, reflecting a broader shift away from traditional German names in favor of more modern or varied choices. Despite its falling trajectory, with only about 1 in 113,872 American boys given the name in 2025, Erich retains a strong, straightforward sound and a timeless feel. The name is most commonly used in states with significant German American heritage, though its distribution is widespread. Erich offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Eric, maintaining the same strong meaning of 'ever ruler' while carrying a unique cultural flavor.
Erich is the German form of Eric, derived from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, from ei 'ever' and ríkr 'ruler'. It has been used in Germany and Scandinavia for centuries, and was borne by several medieval kings. In the United States, it has been used as an alternate spelling of Eric.
Where Erich 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: Rick, Ricky
Sibling names for Erich
Names that share Erich's style, for a brother or sister.
