Rising since 1998, #459 for boys today.
Popularity of Rocco since 1891
Babies named Rocco per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2009, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rocco's real moment was 2025.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 80 |
| 1900s | 203 |
| 1910s | 2,157 |
| 1920s | 3,316 |
| 1930s | 1,755 |
| 1940s | 1,523 |
| 1950s | 2,200 |
| 1960s | 1,785 |
| 1970s | 1,415 |
| 1980s | 1,368 |
| 1990s | 1,166 |
| 2000s | 4,411 |
| 2010s | 6,657 |
| 2020s | 3,643 |
Meaning & origin
Rocco has a long history rooted in Italian and Germanic traditions, derived from a word meaning 'rest'. In the United States, the name first appeared on record in 1891, but its popularity has seen significant growth, particularly in recent decades. As of 2025, Rocco ranks 459th, with a frequency of 1 in 2,516 newborns, a notable rise from its lower standing in the late 20th century. The name reached its peak year in 2025, reflecting a sustained upward trend that began in 1998. Geographically, Rocco is most popular in Hawaii, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, states with strong Italian-American communities. Its nickname Rocky adds a familiar, approachable feel, while the full name carries a classic, strong character.
Rocco is the Italian form of the Germanic name Rocho, derived from the element hrok 'rest, repose'. The name was popularized by Saint Roch, a 14th-century French pilgrim who was venerated as a protector against plague. It has been common in southern Italy, especially Sicily, and was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants.
Where Rocco 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.
“Rocco” around the world
Where Rocco lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Ireland
18
babies in 2025
New Zealand
21
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rocky, Roc
Sibling names for Rocco
Names that share Rocco's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Giovanna, Sofia, Lucia, Maria, Francesca, Gianna, Gina, Ladonna, Roma, Anitra, Ricci, Vincenza, Alessi, Chianti, Enza, Giavana, Giavonni, Jojo, Krizia, Modena, Rossi, Venecia, Veneta, Andretta, Armanie, Benelli, Beretta, Fiora, Marcheta, Marzella, Montina, Vendetta, Dolce, Gianah, Guila, Messina, Onda, Suzetta
Brothers: Matteo, Luca, Antonio, Giuseppe, Marco, Dino, Dominic, Leone, Geno, Sal, Tino, Amonte, Cordaro, Diangelo, Fortino, Giani, Karmello, Lando, Leovanni, Marico, Neri, Nicoli, Olando, Savino, Cinque, Corleone, Deluca, Franco, Giann, Liangelo, Liborio, Macari, Remo, Spero, Tyee, Dantonio, Amaro, Antino, Deanglo, Enzio, Giordan, Greco, Javanni, Karmine, Luchiano, Macio, Rocko, Roemello
Names like Rocco
Names whose popularity has moved with Rocco's over the last 50 years.
