A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Fulton since 1884
Babies named Fulton per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2024, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Fulton's real moment was 1887.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 16 |
| 1890s | 17 |
| 1900s | 68 |
| 1910s | 303 |
| 1920s | 359 |
| 1930s | 230 |
| 1940s | 296 |
| 1950s | 273 |
| 1960s | 155 |
| 1970s | 90 |
| 1980s | 70 |
| 1990s | 102 |
| 2000s | 130 |
| 2010s | 381 |
| 2020s | 392 |
Meaning & origin
Fulton is an English surname turned given name, with a peak historical popularity in 1887 when it ranked most highly. After a long decline, it has been slowly rising again since 1985, reflecting a broader revival of 19th-century-style names. Its highest concentration of use in recent years has been in Minnesota, Texas, and California. With about 1 in every 25,494 newborns receiving the name in 2025, Fulton remains a rare but recognizable choice, carrying a sturdy, vintage feel.
Fulton is an English surname derived from a place name, likely meaning 'foul town' or 'bird hill' from Old English 'fugol' (bird) and 'tūn' (enclosure, settlement). Alternatively, it may come from 'fūl' (foul, muddy) plus 'tūn'. As a given name, it emerged in the 19th century, partly in honor of American inventor Robert Fulton.
Where Fulton is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Fultie
Sibling names for Fulton
Names that share Fulton's style, for a brother or sister.
