MallowbyNames

Ukiah

yoo-KYE-uh · Of uncertain origin; possibly derived from the name of the city Ukiah in California, which is of Pomo Native American origin meaning 'deep valley' or 'southern place.'

2025 rank (boys)
#7,679
Babies named in 2025
10
Peak popularity
2003
2025 frequency
1 in 170,808 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady, #7,679 for boys today.

Popularity of Ukiah since 2001

Babies named Ukiah per year in U.S. Social Security records.

591420102020Most births 2003Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s51
2010s43
2020s34

Meaning & origin

Ukiah is a rare modern name that first entered U.S. birth records in 2001, inspired by the California city of the same name. Its peak year was 2003, after which usage has remained stable but low. In 2025, it ranked 7,679 with a frequency of 1 in 170,808 births, reflecting its status as an uncommon choice. The name's origin is tied to the Pomo Native American word for 'deep valley,' giving it a geographical and cultural resonance. Though it has not broken into the top baby name lists, its unique sound and connection to the landscape of Northern California may appeal to parents seeking an distinctive name with a subtle natural meaning.

Ukiah first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2001, likely inspired by the city of Ukiah in Mendocino County, California, or by similar-sounding invented names. The city name itself is believed to derive from the Pomo word 'yokaia,' likely meaning 'deep valley' or referring to the location of a southern Pomo village. As a given name, it remains rare and is used almost exclusively for boys.

Sibling names for Ukiah

Names that share Ukiah's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Maya, Kira, Selah, Riley, Sierra

Brothers: Kai, Ezra, Micah, Jasper, Ryder

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

U is for Ukiah, our favorite little boy.

U is for Ukiah…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Ukiah's letter becomes Ukiah's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Ukiah's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Ukiah mean?
The name Ukiah is of uncertain origin; it may derive from the city name in California, which comes from the Pomo language and possibly means 'deep valley' or 'southern place.'
How popular is the name Ukiah?
Ukiah is very rare. In 2025 it ranked 7,679 in the U.S., with about 1 in 170,808 boys given that name.
Is Ukiah a boy or girl name?
Ukiah is used almost exclusively for boys, though it could be considered gender-neutral.