Rising since 1986, #78 for boys today.
Popularity of Walker since 1880
Babies named Walker per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 266 |
| 1890s | 294 |
| 1900s | 242 |
| 1910s | 823 |
| 1920s | 1,080 |
| 1930s | 710 |
| 1940s | 720 |
| 1950s | 580 |
| 1960s | 394 |
| 1970s | 547 |
| 1980s | 836 |
| 1990s | 3,712 |
| 2000s | 6,419 |
| 2010s | 10,057 |
| 2020s | 21,234 |
Meaning & origin
Walker is an occupational surname turned given name, rooted in the English cloth trade. The name has seen a steady rise in popularity since 1986, reaching its peak rank of 78 in 2025. In recent years, approximately 1 in 406 boys are named Walker, with strongest usage in Vermont, Montana, and North Dakota. The surname tradition and the strong, straightforward sound appeal to modern parents seeking a name that is both classic and fresh. Its trajectory shows no sign of slowing, making it a solid choice for those who favor surname-style names.
Walker is an occupational surname derived from Middle English 'walkere', meaning 'one who walks' or more specifically, a fuller of cloth who trod on raw wool to clean and thicken it. As a given name, it came into use in the late 20th century, following the trend of surname-as-first-name. The popularity was notably boosted by the character Walker, Texas Ranger, a television show that aired from 1993 to 2001.
Where Walker 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: Walk
Sibling names for Walker
Names that share Walker's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Walker
Names whose popularity has moved with Walker's over the last 50 years.
