A 1960s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Kimberley since 1941
Babies named Kimberley per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 190 |
| 1950s | 4,097 |
| 1960s | 16,261 |
| 1970s | 10,113 |
| 1980s | 3,788 |
| 1990s | 2,083 |
| 2000s | 906 |
| 2010s | 478 |
| 2020s | 127 |
Meaning & origin
Kimberley entered the U.S. naming scene in 1941, initially as a rare but recognizable choice. Its popularity soared in the mid-20th century, peaking in 1967 when it ranked among the top names for girls. After a period of decline, the name has shown signs of revival since 2022, gradually climbing back. Although no state has recorded Kimberley as a top favorite in recent years, its geographic spread remains broad. The name's connection to the diamond-mining town of Kimberley, South Africa, gives it a sparkling historical resonance, while its soft, friendly sound keeps it approachable.
Kimberley originates as an English surname and place name. The town of Kimberley in South Africa, famous for its diamond mines, gave rise to the given name after its founding in the late 19th century. The surname Kimberley likely comes from a Devon place name meaning 'Cyneburg's field' (from the Old English personal name Cyneburg, meaning 'royal fortress', and lēah 'wood, clearing'). The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world, particularly for girls, in the mid-20th century.
Where Kimberley 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.
“Kimberley” around the world
Where Kimberley lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
15
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kim, Kimmi, Lee, Kimmie
Variants: Kimberly
Sibling names for Kimberley
Names that share Kimberley's style, for a brother or sister.
