Rising since 2002, #499 for boys today.
Popularity of Royce since 1892
Babies named Royce per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 0 | 43 |
| 1900s | 0 | 77 |
| 1910s | 40 | 822 |
| 1920s | 185 | 2,252 |
| 1930s | 232 | 3,113 |
| 1940s | 427 | 3,456 |
| 1950s | 387 | 3,492 |
| 1960s | 217 | 2,451 |
| 1970s | 115 | 1,809 |
| 1980s | 83 | 1,937 |
| 1990s | 57 | 1,820 |
| 2000s | 39 | 1,806 |
| 2010s | 489 | 5,783 |
| 2020s | 237 | 4,293 |
Meaning & origin
Royce ranks 499th in 2025, with approximately 1 in 2,819 boys receiving the name. It reached its peak rank of 499 in 2021, showing a gradual upward trend since 2002. The name is most common in South Dakota, Montana, and Iowa. Originally a surname of Norman derivation, Royce has transitioned into a distinctive first name with a crisp, strong sound. Its association with luxury automobiles (Rolls-Royce) adds a layer of sophistication, though the etymology ties back to the Old French for 'king' or 'red-haired.' Modern parents often choose Royce for its blend of classic surname style and contemporary appeal.
Royce originated as an English surname derived from the Norman French personal name Royse or Rois, a diminutive of *Roi* meaning 'king'. The name was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gradually transitioned to a given name. Its use as a first name became established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, partly influenced by the surname Royce (as in Rolls-Royce).
Where Royce 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Roy
Sibling names for Royce
Names that share Royce's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Royce
Names whose popularity has moved with Royce's over the last 50 years.
