Holding steady.
Popularity of Yakima since 1971
Babies named Yakima per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 103 |
| 1980s | 96 |
| 1990s | 51 |
| 2000s | 11 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Yakima first entered U.S. birth records in 1971, reaching its peak year of usage in 1978 before settling into a stable but rare trajectory. It has never ranked among the top 1000 names, reflecting its niche appeal. The name, while uncommon, carries a strong geographic and cultural association with the Yakama Nation and the Yakima Valley in Washington. Although no single state stood out enough to record as a top state, the name has seen scattered use across the country. Its origin is rooted in the indigenous place name, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with natural and cultural resonance.
Yakima is a place name and tribal name of the Yakama (formerly Yakima) people of the Pacific Northwest. Its use as a given name is a modern adoption, likely inspired by the river, city, or tribe name. It has seen sporadic usage in the United States since the 1970s, primarily for girls.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Yaki
Variants: Yakama
Sibling names for Yakima
Names that share Yakima's style, for a brother or sister.

