Gender-neutral baby names are having a moment, and it looks like the trend is only accelerating in 2024.
Table of Contents
Short Summary:
- Gender-neutral baby names are gaining popularity since the 1990s.
- They made up 17% of baby names in 2023, and the trend shows no signs of slowing.
- Names like Dylan, Avery, and Logan top the list of the most popular unisex names for 2024.
The times, they are a-changin’. Once a rare phenomenon, gender-neutral baby names are now skyrocketing in popularity. Recent data from Names.org confirms this trend, with 17% of babies in 2023 sporting unisex names. Why? Because modern parents are breaking free from traditional gender norms. Let’s dive into the deets.
Names.org Predicts the Top Unisex Names for 2024
Get ready to hear more about little Dylans, Averys, and Logans. According to Names.org, these names are expected to be the hottest gender-neutral picks for 2024:
- Dylan
- Avery
- Logan
- Carter
- Riley
- Parker
- Rowan
- Cameron
- Angel
- Kai
The rise isn’t localized to a specific region either. Once more common in the Southeast, gender-neutral names have now spread their charm to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. As Names.org puts it, “the maps show how dramatically usage has increased across the entire country.”
“More recently, the maps show how dramatically usage has increased across the entire country,” notes Names.org, highlighting that gender-neutral names are not confined to any one region anymore.
So, if you’re wondering where the trend is heating up the most, Louisiana is your answer with 17.5% of babies receiving unisex names. On the flip side, Rhode Island sits at the bottom with a mere 9.1%.
Just How Common Are These Names?
Interestingly, the data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t capture the full picture. The SSA only records given names, not nicknames. Names.org suggests that gender-neutral names might be even more ubiquitous in daily life.
“Gender-neutral names are even more common in everyday life than the Social Security data would suggest,” the website notes. “For example, the nickname ‘Charlie’ is used for both ‘Charles’ and ‘Charlotte,’ making it more prevalent than SSA data shows.”
Other notable examples include “Alex” for both “Alexander” and “Alexandra,” along with “Chris” for “Christopher,” “Christian,” “Christine,” or “Christina.” When you think about it, these names are everywhere!
A Glimpse into the Past and Future
Gender-neutral names are not a novel concept. According to Names.org, the trend dates back to the late 1800s, when about 3-4% of names were gender-neutral. Now, those numbers have seen a massive jump.
If you’re curious about the all-time most popular gender-neutral names, look no further than Willie, Kelly, and Jordan. Quite a blend, right?
Influences from Pop Culture
Gender-neutral names aren’t the only ones catching eyes these days. If you’re in the throes of baby naming, you might want to consider influences from sports, film, and even Netflix.
Take Caitlin, for example. Despite peaking in 1988, it’s making a comeback, likely thanks to basketball superstar Caitlin Clark. The name Zendaya is also on the rise, fueled by the actress’s role in “Dune: Part Two.” Speaking of the Bridgerton effect, names like Anthony, Eloise, Francesca, and Gregory have seen a significant uptick since the series’ release. Suddenly, your baby name brainstorming session doubles as a Netflix binge-watching marathon.
Discussion Boards Are Buzzing
Don’t just take our word for it; parents are taking to forums to share their gender-neutral baby name dilemmas. One user confessed they stuck with gender-neutral names for all five of their kids and are considering “Noah” for their sixth. They love the name but are worried about its popularity.
So, if you’re still agonizing over the perfect name, know that you’re not alone. And yes, “Noah” can work wonderfully for a girl too, especially when paired with a middle name like Ellie or Atlas for extra jazz.
“I named four kids, three girls and one boy, without realizing they could work for either gender. So, for kid five, I just named them Sawyer regardless of gender. Now, I’m considering Noah for baby number six,” shares an enthusiastic parent on a forum.
Conclusion
The era of pinks for girls and blues for boys is fading. Gender-neutral names are not just a trend; they’re a statement. They represent a shift toward more inclusive parenting styles, and it’s beautiful to see. If you’re expecting a bundle of joy, don’t be afraid to go the unisex route. Your future Dylan, Avery, or Logan will thank you.
So, what’s it going to be? Are you ready to join the ranks of modern parents redefining baby naming conventions? The baby name game has never been so exciting — or so inclusive.