Rising since 1995, #639 for girls today.
Popularity of Rhea since 1882
Babies named Rhea per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 117 |
| 1890s | 476 |
| 1900s | 542 |
| 1910s | 1,352 |
| 1920s | 1,567 |
| 1930s | 1,092 |
| 1940s | 1,137 |
| 1950s | 1,248 |
| 1960s | 1,055 |
| 1970s | 990 |
| 1980s | 1,244 |
| 1990s | 1,174 |
| 2000s | 2,042 |
| 2010s | 2,736 |
| 2020s | 2,965 |
Meaning & origin
Rhea has seen a notable rise in popularity over recent decades. First recorded in 1882, its current rank of 639 (2025) reflects a steady upward trajectory since 1995. The name peaked in 2023, with a frequency of 1 in 3,556 births. Rhea is most common in Oregon, Nevada, and Massachusetts, suggesting a modern, geographically diverse appeal. Its mythological roots lend depth, while its simple, melodic sound aligns with contemporary tastes for short, vowel-ending names.
Rhea is derived from the Greek name Ῥέα (Rhea), of uncertain meaning. It may be related to the Greek word ῥέω (rheo) meaning 'to flow,' or to ἔρα (era) meaning 'earth.' In Greek mythology, Rhea was the Titaness mother of Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia. The name was revived in the 18th and 19th centuries and has since become established in English-speaking countries.
Where Rhea is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Rhea” around the world
Where Rhea lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
20
babies in 2024
Ireland
#85
in 2025
New Zealand
11
babies in 2025
Quebec
10
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Sibling names for Rhea
Names that share Rhea's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Rhea
Names whose popularity has moved with Rhea's over the last 50 years.
