Declining since 2020, #2,480 for boys today.
Popularity of Niles since 1897
Babies named Niles per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1998, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Niles's real moment was 1913.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 183 |
| 1920s | 282 |
| 1930s | 308 |
| 1940s | 434 |
| 1950s | 390 |
| 1960s | 272 |
| 1970s | 317 |
| 1980s | 423 |
| 1990s | 558 |
| 2000s | 451 |
| 2010s | 488 |
| 2020s | 339 |
Meaning & origin
Niles is a name with Irish and Scottish roots, originally a surname meaning "son of Neil" or "champion". First recorded in U.S. data in 1897, it reached its peak popularity in 1913, when it ranked highest among years. Since 2020, its usage has been declining, but it remains a recognizable choice. As of 2025, about 1 in 31,631 newborn boys are named Niles, and it is most common in Washington state. The name carries a classic, understated feel, blending heritage with a touch of vintage charm.
Niles is an English surname derived from the Irish and Scottish Gaelic name Niall, which means "champion" or "cloud". The surname emerged as a patronymic, meaning "son of Neil". It has been used as a given name since the 19th century, particularly in the United States. The name is also associated with the city of Niles, Ohio, which was named after a politician.
Where Niles is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nile
Sibling names for Niles
Names that share Niles's style, for a brother or sister.
