Rising since 1998, #1,609 for boys today.
Popularity of Mars since 1923
Babies named Mars per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1920s | 0 | 18 |
| 1930s | 0 | 5 |
| 1940s | 0 | 5 |
| 1950s | 0 | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 | 5 |
| 1970s | 0 | 12 |
| 1980s | 0 | 12 |
| 1990s | 0 | 6 |
| 2000s | 0 | 72 |
| 2010s | 48 | 446 |
| 2020s | 154 | 739 |
Meaning & origin
Mars is one of the few Roman god names that has remained relatively uncommon as a given name. First recorded in the U.S. in 1923, it spent decades in obscurity before beginning a steady climb in the late 1990s. The name reached its peak rank in 2023, and as of 2025 it stands at rank 1,609, given to roughly 1 in 16,267 boys. Its rise likely reflects a broader trend toward celestial and mythological names. The top states for Mars in recent data are Missouri, Illinois, and California, suggesting a geographically scattered appeal rather than a regional concentration. The name is straightforward to spell and pronounce, and carries strong associations with the red planet and Roman mythology. While some may question its seriousness, Mars offers a concise, powerful option for parents seeking a name that is both ancient and modern.
Mars is the name of the Roman god of war, a central figure in Roman mythology. The name's etymology is debated; it may derive from the Latin 'mas' (male) or from an earlier Etruscan root. As a given name, it has seen limited but consistent use in the United States since the early 20th century, with a notable uptick in the 2020s possibly influenced by popular culture.
Where Mars is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Mars
Names that share Mars's style, for a brother or sister.
