Declining since 1987, #4,546 for girls today.
Popularity of Rochelle since 1900
Babies named Rochelle per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 50 |
| 1910s | 278 |
| 1920s | 420 |
| 1930s | 2,307 |
| 1940s | 4,525 |
| 1950s | 6,885 |
| 1960s | 9,885 |
| 1970s | 9,082 |
| 1980s | 7,294 |
| 1990s | 4,249 |
| 2000s | 1,293 |
| 2010s | 521 |
| 2020s | 205 |
Meaning & origin
Rochelle is a French-derived name that peaked in popularity during the 1960s, ranking highest in 1969. Since 1987, its usage has been steadily declining, and as of 2025 it ranks 4,546th, with just 1 in 53,576 newborn girls receiving the name. The name has never been extremely common, but it held a modest presence mid-century. While not currently associated with any particular U.S. state, the name Rochelle carries a soft, vintage charm reminiscent of other mid-20th-century favorites like Jeanette and Colleen. Its rise and fall mirror broader naming trends of the era, making it a recognizable but uncommon choice for parents today seeking a classic yet underused option.
Rochelle is derived from the French place name La Rochelle, a port city on the Atlantic coast. The name itself comes from the Occitan word 'rochela', meaning 'little rock'. It began to be used as a given name in the English-speaking world in the late 19th century, likely influenced by the French surname or the city's prominence.
Where Rochelle 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rochel, Rocky, Shelli
Sibling names for Rochelle
Names that share Rochelle's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Colleen, Jeanette, Kathleen, Christina, Danielle, Rashelle, Renea, Delisha, Diondra, Latisa, Marchell, Paulett, Ranelle, Ruchy, Sharelle, Chandelle, Darnita, Junelle, Nechelle, Raenell, Rayshell, Shalinda, Shauntelle, Shelene, Franchelle, Lichelle, Rashauna, Richel, Richell, Ronae, Ronnita, Shawnya, Tynetta
Brothers: Laurence, Clifford, Patrick, Brian, Kevin, Cardell, Darcell, Demichael, Raymone, Cleavon, Levelle, Dannell, Javelle
Names like Rochelle
Names whose popularity has moved with Rochelle's over the last 50 years.
