A 1900s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Helia since 1898
Babies named Helia per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Helia's real moment was 1904.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 6 |
| 1900s | 7 |
| 1910s | 11 |
| 1920s | 21 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 12 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 26 |
| 2010s | 43 |
| 2020s | 83 |
Meaning & origin
Helia is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1898. It peaked in popularity in 1904 and, after a long period of disuse, began a steady climb in 2007 that continues through 2025, suggesting a modern revival. Currently, it ranks 5,917th, with an incidence of 1 in 80,363 newborns. The name is most common in California, reflecting possible influences from Spanish-speaking communities. While its exact origin is uncertain, it is most often linked to the Greek sun god Helios, giving it a warm, radiant feel. Helia fits alongside other revived Victorian-era names and offers a distinctive alternative to more common names like Amelia or Olivia.
Helia is likely a feminine elaboration of Helios, the Greek god of the sun. The name has been used sparingly in English-speaking countries since the late 19th century, with occasional revivals. Its exact derivation is debated, as it may also be a short form of names like Cornelia or Ophelia.
Where Helia is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Helia” around the world
Where Helia lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
45
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lee, Lea, Ellie, Hel
Sibling names for Helia
Names that share Helia's style, for a brother or sister.
