MallowbyNames

Valdez

val-DEZ · Of uncertain origin; possibly a Spanish habitational surname meaning 'from Valdés'.

Peak popularity
1976
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Valdez since 1957

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

714211960198020002020Most births 1974Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1950s10
1960s11
1970s107
1980s41
1990s52
2000s24
2010s13
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Valdez is a rare given name in the United States, first recorded in 1957. It saw its peak usage in 1976, after which it has remained extremely infrequent, with a stable trajectory in recent years. As a surname-turned-first-name, it carries a distinctly Spanish heritage and is most common in areas with strong Hispanic communities, though no single state dominates. The name's rarity gives it unique appeal, but its meaning remains debated; it likely refers to a valley dweller. For families with Valdez ancestry, the name offers a way to honor lineage without being derivative.

Valdez is a Spanish surname of debated origin. It may derive from the place name Valdés in Asturias, Spain, itself from Latin vallis 'valley'. As a given name, it is used primarily in the United States, often in honor of a surname or family tradition. Its use as a first name has been sparse but consistent since the mid-20th century.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Valdés

Sibling names for Valdez

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

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

V is for Valdez, our favorite little boy.

V is for Valdez…”

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

Make Valdez's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Valdez mean?
Valdez is of Spanish origin, likely a habitational surname meaning 'from Valdés', a place in Asturias.
How popular is the name Valdez?
Valdez has never ranked in the top 1,000 U.S. baby names. Its peak usage year was 1976, according to Social Security data.
Is Valdez a boy or girl name?
Valdez is primarily used for boys, though it is uncommon for either gender.