Declining since 2016, #2,822 for girls today.
Popularity of Kensington since 1997
Babies named Kensington per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 45 | 0 |
| 2000s | 399 | 18 |
| 2010s | 2,001 | 106 |
| 2020s | 505 | 38 |
Meaning & origin
Kensington entered U.S. baby name data in 1997, reflecting a broader trend of adopting upscale British placenames as first names. It peaked in 2015 with its highest rank ever, then began a steady decline starting in 2016. By 2025 it ranked 2822, with roughly 1 in 26,788 newborns given the name. Its strongest usage has been in Tennessee, Virginia, and California. The name carries a modern, feminine feel, often shortened to Kenzi or Kensie. Though still uncommon, it remains a familiar choice among parents drawn to place-inspired names with a touch of elegance.
Kensington originates as a place name in London, derived from Old English 'Cynesige' (a personal name) plus 'tun', meaning 'estate or settlement'. The name gained use as a given name in the late 1990s, following a trend of using prestigious British placenames and surnames as first names. It rose in popularity in the 2000s and 2010s, especially in the United States.
Where Kensington is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ken, Kenzi, Kensi, Sington
Sibling names for Kensington
Names that share Kensington's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Charlotte, Parker, Rowan, Saylor, Violet, Anniston, Berkley, Karrington, Kollyns, Kynslee, Anistyn, Bentleigh, Berkleigh, Brittyn, Courtlynn, Kerrington, Kherington, Kinzleigh, Lynleigh, Mckinleigh, Anberlin, Aubreana, Austynn, Avereigh, Averyanna, Kendalyn, Lovelyn, Makinsey, Mattingly, Mckinsley, Timberlyn, Aunisty, Baxley, Delayni, Jakenzie, Kingsleigh, Knoxley, Lakenzie, Makenleigh, Paisely
Brothers: Harrison, Preston, Declan, Graham, Maddox, Arlington, Gentry, Maxton, Arrington, Bryston, Castle, Kenson, Kingsten, Kingstyn, Kyngston, Beckem, Brockton, Dexton, Harrington, Huntington, Bankston, Branston, Brextyn, Draycen, Jettsen, Kincade, Knoxton, Prynceton, Stetsyn
