Rising since 1988, #345 for boys today.
Popularity of Wells since 1881
Babies named Wells per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 16 |
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 6 |
| 1910s | 172 |
| 1920s | 193 |
| 1930s | 119 |
| 1940s | 110 |
| 1950s | 90 |
| 1960s | 68 |
| 1970s | 87 |
| 1980s | 71 |
| 1990s | 103 |
| 2000s | 166 |
| 2010s | 1,473 |
| 2020s | 4,310 |
Meaning & origin
Wells is a surname-turned-first-name that has been climbing the popularity charts since the late 1980s. First recorded in 1881, it languished in obscurity for over a century before gaining momentum. By 2025, it reached its peak rank of 345th, with an incidence of 1 in 1,809 births. The name is particularly favored in states like North Dakota, New Hampshire, and Utah, reflecting a preference for preppy, surname-style names in those regions. Its rise mirrors a broader trend toward occupational and locational surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both traditional and fresh.
Wells is a surname transferred to first name use, derived from the Old English 'wellas' meaning 'springs' or 'wells'. It originally denoted someone who lived near a spring or a well. As a given name, it gained traction in the late 20th century, often chosen for its preppy, surname-as-first-name appeal.
Where Wells 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 Wells
Names that share Wells's style, for a brother or sister.
