A 1980s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Nguyen since 1975
Babies named Nguyen per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 7 | 37 |
| 1980s | 38 | 140 |
| 1990s | 48 | 125 |
| 2000s | 19 | 86 |
| 2010s | 5 | 68 |
| 2020s | 0 | 26 |
Meaning & origin
Nguyen entered U.S. records as a first name in 1975, and its popularity has fluctuated over time. It peaked in 1983, reflecting immigration patterns from Vietnam in the post-war years. While the name's rank in 2025 is 12,008, it remains a distinctive choice. Its trajectory has been rising since 2022, indicating renewed interest. The name is historically tied to the Vietnamese language and Chinese influence, and its top states have included California and Texas.
Nguyen is the most common Vietnamese surname, derived from the Chinese surname Ruan. It was adopted by many members of the Ly and Tran dynasties after political changes in the 13th century. The name has been carried by generations of Vietnamese people and spread through the Vietnamese diaspora.
Sibling names for Nguyen
Names that share Nguyen's style, for a brother or sister.
