A 1970s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Rusty since 1927
Babies named Rusty per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1961, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rusty's real moment was 1979.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 8 |
| 1930s | 41 |
| 1940s | 458 |
| 1950s | 2,956 |
| 1960s | 4,242 |
| 1970s | 3,647 |
| 1980s | 3,768 |
| 1990s | 1,472 |
| 2000s | 598 |
| 2010s | 377 |
| 2020s | 235 |
Meaning & origin
Rusty first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1927, but gained steady traction through the mid-20th century. Its peak year was 1979, when the name ranked highest in popularity. After a long decline, Rusty has been slowly rising again since 2019, currently at rank 2363 (2025). The name is most common in Florida and California, often evoking a friendly, casual image. Though originally a nickname, Rusty stands on its own as a given name, carrying a down-to-earth charm that has kept it in occasional use for nearly a century.
Rusty originated as a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion, referring to the color of rust. It has been used as a given name since the early 20th century, particularly in the United States. The name peaked in popularity during the 1970s and has seen a modest revival in recent years.
Where Rusty 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 Rusty
Names that share Rusty's style, for a brother or sister.
