Declining since 2017, #1,047 for girls today.
Popularity of Harlee since 1915
Babies named Harlee per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 0 | 22 |
| 1920s | 0 | 64 |
| 1930s | 0 | 20 |
| 1940s | 0 | 25 |
| 1950s | 6 | 5 |
| 1960s | 0 | 5 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 15 | 5 |
| 1990s | 887 | 65 |
| 2000s | 1,865 | 100 |
| 2010s | 3,410 | 115 |
| 2020s | 1,840 | 53 |
Meaning & origin
Harlee is a modern feminine name that emerged in the mid-20th century, first recorded in 1950. It gained traction as a distinct spelling of Harley, a surname-turned-first-name. The name experienced a surge in popularity during the 2010s, reaching its peak rank in 2017, after which it began a steady decline. In 2025, Harlee ranked 1047th, with roughly 1 in every 6,782 girls receiving the name. Geographically, it has been most common in Idaho, Mississippi, and Arkansas, reflecting a regional preference in the South and West. Despite its recent trajectory, Harlee remains a recognizable and straightforward choice, often chosen for its melodic sound and modern feel.
Harlee is a modern coinage, likely derived from the English surname Harley, which itself comes from Old English words meaning 'hare wood' or 'rocky meadow.' It emerged as a given name in the mid-20th century, gaining popularity as a feminine alternative to Harley. The name rose sharply in the 2010s, peaking in 2017.
Where Harlee is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls 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: Har, Lee
Sibling names for Harlee
Names that share Harlee's style, for a brother or sister.
