Rising since 1987, #1,452 for girls today.
Popularity of Hartley since 1892
Babies named Hartley per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 0 | 21 |
| 1900s | 0 | 26 |
| 1910s | 0 | 178 |
| 1920s | 0 | 270 |
| 1930s | 0 | 229 |
| 1940s | 0 | 187 |
| 1950s | 0 | 98 |
| 1960s | 0 | 74 |
| 1970s | 0 | 22 |
| 1980s | 13 | 27 |
| 1990s | 74 | 66 |
| 2000s | 169 | 69 |
| 2010s | 1,213 | 194 |
| 2020s | 750 | 147 |
Meaning & origin
Hartley has steadily risen in popularity since 1987, reaching its peak rank of 1452 in 2025. In that year, approximately 1 in 10,860 newborns were named Hartley, making it an uncommon but not rare choice. The name is most popular in the southern states, with Mississippi, Kentucky, and Alabama showing the highest usage. Originally a surname and place name, Hartley transitioned to a given name in the late 20th century and has gained traction, particularly for girls. Its gentle sound and nature-inspired meaning ("stag meadow") contribute to its appeal among modern parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and distinctive.
Hartley is an English surname-turned-given name derived from a place name meaning 'stag meadow' (Old English 'heorot' meaning 'stag' or 'hart' plus 'leah' meaning 'clearing' or 'meadow'). As a given name, it emerged in the late 20th century, initially more common for boys but now used for both sexes. Its popularity has risen steadily since the 1980s, particularly in the southern United States.
Where Hartley is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Hart, Harty, Lee
Variants: Hartleigh
Sibling names for Hartley
Names that share Hartley's style, for a brother or sister.
