Declining since 2020, #3,296 for girls today.
Popularity of Kahlia since 1976
Babies named Kahlia per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 21 |
| 1980s | 77 |
| 1990s | 159 |
| 2000s | 306 |
| 2010s | 447 |
| 2020s | 324 |
Meaning & origin
Kahlia is a modern, unconventional name that entered U.S. records in 1976. It peaked in usage in 2020, when it reached its highest rank, yet it remains quite rare, with only about 1 in 34,197 newborns receiving the name in 2025. Its trajectory has been falling since 2020, reflecting a brief spike in popularity during the early 2020s. The name is most common in Florida and California, suggesting a preference in multicultural coastal states. Kahlia likely appeals to parents seeking a melodic, distinctive name with multiple cultural touchpoints, whether inspired by Hawaiian serenity or Arabic endearment.
Kahlia is a name of mixed possible origins. It may be a modern American coinage influenced by popular suffix patterns, such as a feminine variant of Kahlil (from Arabic "khalil," meaning "beloved") or a borrowing of the Hawaiian name Kahlia, meaning "calm" or "serenity." The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1976 and gained modest popularity in the 2000s and 2010s. Its use remains relatively rare, with a peak in 2020.
Where Kahlia is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kah, Kahl, Lee
Sibling names for Kahlia
Names that share Kahlia's style, for a brother or sister.
