Rising since 1985, #387 for girls today.
Popularity of Kalani since 1959
Babies named Kalani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s | 0 | 5 |
| 1960s | 16 | 41 |
| 1970s | 71 | 153 |
| 1980s | 167 | 211 |
| 1990s | 368 | 307 |
| 2000s | 1,132 | 670 |
| 2010s | 3,403 | 636 |
| 2020s | 5,121 | 214 |
Meaning & origin
Kalani entered U.S. popularity charts in 1963, initially a rare Hawaiian import. It has been steadily rising since 1985, with a sharp ascent in the 2010s culminating in its peak rank of 212 in 2021. By 2025 it had settled at rank 387, given to roughly 1 in 2,009 girls. The name is especially favored in the District of Columbia, Mississippi, and Louisiana, reflecting its appeal in both urban and culturally diverse regions. Its melodic three-syllable structure and Hawaiian origin make it a popular choice among parents seeking a name with a tropical feel and spiritual resonance, meaning 'the heavens.'
Kalani is a Hawaiian name meaning 'the heavens' or 'the sky,' often used in traditional naming as a title for chiefs. It has been used both as a given name and a surname in Hawaii, and has gained broader popularity in the United States since the late 20th century.
Where Kalani 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: Kala, Lani
Sibling names for Kalani
Names that share Kalani's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Leilani, Malia, Kai, Nani, Alani, Alanni, Anaia, Aolani, Aolanis, Maelani, Mele, Aalani, Jakyia, Jashayla, Kailoni, Kalaysia, Kamea, Lanika, Mahogani, Mialani, Yalani, Zarayah, Jadae, Ailanni, Cahlani, Halani, Laloni, Leilanii, Leinani, Malaka, Myrikal, Naloni, Sacheen, Shalika, Yulani
Brothers: Koa, Keanu, Ikaika, Makana, Kanoa, Kainalu, Avonte, Alakay, Jacier, Leilan
Names like Kalani
Names whose popularity has moved with Kalani's over the last 50 years.
