Declining since 2016, #2,676 for boys today.
Popularity of Riker since 1991
Babies named Riker per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 72 |
| 2000s | 116 |
| 2010s | 641 |
| 2020s | 429 |
Meaning & origin
Riker is a modern given name that first appeared on the U.S. Social Security Administration's baby name list in 1991. It climbed in popularity, reaching its peak rank of 2,676th in 2016, the same year it was most popular. Since 2016, its trajectory has been falling. As of 2025, about 1 in every 35,585 boys is named Riker. The name is most frequently given in Texas. Its rise is largely attributed to the character Commander William T. Riker from the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation, which aired from 1987 to 1994. The surname Riker has Dutch origins, possibly from a place name meaning rich or powerful. The name is rare but has carved out a distinctive niche, appealing to fans of the franchise and those seeking a strong, uncommon name.
Riker first emerged as a given name in the United States in the late 20th century, likely inspired by the surname of the fictional character Commander William T. Riker from the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994). The surname itself is of Dutch origin, possibly from a place name meaning "rich" or "powerful." The name gained modest popularity in the 1990s and peaked in 2016.
Where Riker is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Riker
Names that share Riker's style, for a brother or sister.
