Rising since 1986, #325 for boys today.
Popularity of Niko since 1962
Babies named Niko per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 21 |
| 1970s | 86 |
| 1980s | 313 |
| 1990s | 1,510 |
| 2000s | 1,922 |
| 2010s | 4,455 |
| 2020s | 6,322 |
Meaning & origin
Niko is a concise, energetic name that has steadily climbed the popularity charts. First recorded in the U.S. in 1962, it reached its peak rank in 2022 and continues to rise, especially since 1986. Currently ranked 325th (2025), with a one-in-1,633 birth rate, Niko is particularly favored in states like Alaska, Delaware, and New Mexico. Its style aligns with other short, vowel-ending names such as Milo, Luca, and Finn, appealing to parents seeking a modern yet grounded choice.
Niko originates as a diminutive or independent form of Nikolaos (Greek Νικόλαος), from nike 'victory' and laos 'people'. It has been used across Europe, especially in Finland, Croatia, and Germany, and gained traction in the United States as a trendy shorter alternative to Nicholas.
Where Niko is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Niko” around the world
Where Niko lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Ireland
5
babies in 2025
New Zealand
38
babies in 2025
Quebec
9
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nikki, Koko
Sibling names for Niko
Names that share Niko's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Niko
Names whose popularity has moved with Niko's over the last 50 years.
