Declining since 1990, #1,793 for boys today.
Popularity of Rico since 1915
Babies named Rico per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1991, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rico's real moment was 1976.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 26 |
| 1920s | 53 |
| 1930s | 29 |
| 1940s | 50 |
| 1950s | 177 |
| 1960s | 460 |
| 1970s | 2,049 |
| 1980s | 1,844 |
| 1990s | 1,972 |
| 2000s | 1,298 |
| 2010s | 1,323 |
| 2020s | 645 |
Meaning & origin
Rico entered U.S. naming records in 1915 and peaked in popularity in 1976, reflecting mid-century appeal. Since 1990, its usage has steadily declined, with a current rank of 1793 and an incidence of 1 in 19,192 births in 2025. The name is most common in states like Washington, Michigan, and Texas, often within Hispanic communities. Its roots in the Germanic 'ric' and Romance 'rico' give it a straightforward, positive meaning of wealth and power, making it a concise, strong choice.
Rico originated as a short form of names containing the Germanic element 'ric' meaning 'power, ruler,' such as Richard or Frederick. In Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese, 'rico' also means 'rich, wealthy,' reinforcing the name's association with prosperity. It has been used as a standalone given name in the United States since the early 20th century, particularly among Hispanic communities.
Where Rico 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.
Sibling names for Rico
Names that share Rico's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Nina, Sofia, Isabella, Lucia, Carmen, Lita, Serita, Catina, Joya, Rina, Cherita, Lenita, Rica, Vonetta, Cuca, Kanari, Letica, Marixa, Marqueta, Monita, Sonita, Tila, Charina, Chiquitta, Corita, Delita
Brothers: Marco, Diego, Leo, Mateo, Javier, Rigo, Rito, Chico, Kato, Primo, Costa, Delrico, Charvez, Larico, Mando
