Declining since 2022, #3,036 for boys today.
Popularity of Koi since 1995
Babies named Koi per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 5 | 33 |
| 2000s | 87 | 157 |
| 2010s | 224 | 315 |
| 2020s | 353 | 308 |
Meaning & origin
Koi entered the U.S. naming landscape relatively recently, first appearing on the Social Security Administration's records in 1995. Over the past three decades, its usage has grown modestly but steadily, reaching a peak rank of 3,036 in 2022. As of 2025, Koi ranks 3,036th nationally, with about 1 in 42,702 babies receiving the name. The name has experienced a slight decline in popularity since its 2022 peak, but it remains a distinctive choice, particularly in Georgia, which leads among top states for the name. As a word name tied to the Japanese ornamental fish, Koi carries connotations of beauty, grace, and tranquility, appealing to parents seeking a short, nature-inspired name with cross-cultural resonance.
Koi is a Japanese word meaning 'carp', specifically the decorative fish bred for their vibrant colors and patterns. The name has been adopted as a given name in English-speaking countries since the late 20th century, likely influenced by the popularity of Japanese culture and the aesthetic appeal of the fish.
Where Koi is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Koi
Names that share Koi's style, for a brother or sister.
