Welcome to a friendly, research-backed page that helps you scan a curated list of baby names with ease. We blend SSA leader data — Olivia, Emma, Amelia, Charlotte, Mia, Sophia — with BabyCenter shifts, like Eliana and Aurora rising in popularity.

Expect clear inspiration and simple guidance so you can shortlist a favorite without stress. The list highlights familiar choices and fast-risers such as Ailany/Aylani, Elowyn, Elani, Solana, Honey, Wrenlee, and Lettie. Trends include vowel-rich endings, nature and celestial themes, and a dash of literary and pop-culture influence.

This intro sets up practical naming help: learn what’s steady, what’s gaining momentum, and why certain styles feel modern yet wearable. Use the list to find a name that fits your values, meaning, and family story.

Keep this page handy as your quick reference while you narrow options and build a shortlist you love.

How we chose the list: SSA data, BabyCenter rankings, and 2026 name trends

We merged government stats with real-time choices and trend forecasts to map what’s rising. Our goal was to balance measurable usage with cultural momentum so parents get useful guidance.

Sources we used

Primary data came from the SSA’s annual top 1,000 registry, which also flags fastest risers such as Ailany/Aylani, Elowyn, Solana, Honey, and Lettie.

User behavior was checked against BabyCenter’s 2025 rankings, where Olivia and Amelia remain leaders and Eliana and Aurora climbed into the top 10.

What “future” popularity means for U.S. families

Future popularity blends current charting with early signals. We layered Nameberry’s trend forecasts—Ancient Civilizations, Romantasy, Anime influences, and more—to spot styles likely to grow.

  • We favored names that appear across multiple sources rather than one-off spikes.
  • We weighted verified use (SSA), active parent picks (BabyCenter), and style momentum (Nameberry).
  • Think of popularity as a guide: it helps you pick a baby name that fits your taste and comfort with how common it might become this year.

Top 100 Nice Girl Names 2026

Here’s a quick, curated mix of classic picks and modern climbers to jumpstart your shortlist. The list blends long-loved options like Olivia and Emma with rising choices such as Elowyn and Solana so you can scan fast and save favorites.

Quick-scan list for busy parents

Below is a practical selection that pairs evergreen choices and stylish newcomers. Pronunciations and nicknames appear where helpful.

  • Olivia (olive tree) — nicknames: Liv, Livia
  • Emma — classic, easy to spell
  • Amelia — nick: Amy, Lia
  • Charlotte — timeless, crossover appeal
  • Sophia / Sofia — popular and graceful
  • Isabella (pledged to God) — Bella
  • Hazel (hazel tree) — nature vibe
  • Daphne (laurel tree) — literary touch
  • Aurora — sky-and-sun feel
  • Elowyn (EL-oh-win) — elm tree; note: Elowen variant
  • Elani (eh-LAH-nee) — light of the sun
  • Solana — sunshine, warm tone
  • Wrenlee — modern nature option
  • Lettie — sweet, vintage nickname
  • Imogen (IM-uh-jen) — maiden; classic literary
  • Lucy — light; friendly and short
  • Eloise, Violet, Isla, Maeve — Nameberry favorites
  • Ailany / Aylani — fast-moving SSA riser
  • Honey, Sabine, Leonie — under-the-radar gems

Spotlight picks with meaning and vibe

Olivia and Isabella connect to family and faith through deep meanings. Elani, Lucy, and Imogen offer light- and maiden-themed resonance.

Nature lovers may lean toward Hazel, Daphne, or Wrenlee. Want celestial warmth? Try Aurora or Solana.

Evergreen favorites still shining: Olivia, Emma, Amelia, Charlotte, Mia, Sophia

A few classic choices have proven steady through changing trends and still feel fresh today.

Why timeless names stay popular

These picks appear high on SSA lists year after year and show up on BabyCenter charts as steady leaders. That steady performance means your baby’s name will feel familiar to teachers, neighbors, and future colleagues.

Ease, spelling, and recognition

Simple spelling and clear sounds cut down on corrections. Parents often choose these names because they travel well across regions and ages.

  • Meaning matters: Olivia’s “olive tree” and Sophia’s “wisdom” add classic charm.
  • They pair smoothly with many surnames and middle-name styles, including vintage or modern options.
  • Recognizable names reduce mispronunciations and still allow nicknames—Liv, Emmy, Lia, Lottie, Mimi, Sophie.

Quick tip: If you love a popular baby choice but want less duplication, try a variant like Sofia or Emilia, or use a bold middle name for personality.

Fastest-rising girl names to watch in 2026

Certain names have climbed fast on registries, signaling clear momentum for the months ahead.

From Ailany and Aylani to Elowyn and Lettie: what’s fueling the surge

The SSA shows big jumps for Ailany (+754), Aylani (+441), Elani, Kailany, Wrenlee, Lettie, and several more. These gains point to real shifts in popularity rather than one-off spikes.

Meaning plays a role: Elani means “light of the sun,” Solana means “sunshine,” and Soraya suggests stars. That warm, nature-forward vibe appeals to many parents seeking an inviting, modern option.

The -ani/-any and -ie endings trend explained

The -ani/-any group (Ailany, Aylani, Ailani, Elani, Kailany) feels musical and upbeat. The -ie wave—Scottie, Lettie, Elodie, Marjorie—adds friendly charm with a vintage twist.

  • Sound matters: airy vowels and soft consonants make these choices easy to say and remember.
  • These names jumped in the latest SSA release, so expect to hear them more next year.
  • Pair a trending first with a classic middle to balance novelty and longevity.

Nature-inspired names: land, sky, and everything in between

Nature offers a rich palette of naming ideas, from shaded groves to wide-open skies. Use this short guide to explore picks that feel organic, bright, or slightly adventurous.

Tree and flower charm

Hazel, Daphne, Violet, and Wrenlee bring calm, grounded energy. These choices lean into botanical and avian imagery that reads as warm and familiar.

  • Hazel — evokes the hazel tree and a vintage vibe.
  • Daphne — laurel associations with myth and grace.
  • Violet — floral color and soft sound for a gentle feel.
  • Wrenlee — SSA riser with a songbird-inspired twist.

Skyward choices

Look to the heavens for options that feel luminous and modern. Solana, Nova, Eclipse, and Aurora suggest warmth, renewal, and cosmic charm.

  • Solana — literally “sunshine,” a warm, bright light.
  • Nova — crisp, star-like energy that reads contemporary.
  • Eclipse — bold and poetic; a dramatic celestial motif.
  • Aurora — dawn imagery and steady SSA popularity.

Quick tips: Consider seasonal ties or an island memory (Isla) to add personal context. Pair a nature-first name with a classic middle to balance uniqueness and ease. This small list highlights meanings you can use for nursery themes and lasting keepsakes.

Pop culture power: Disney royalty and Bridgerton-era gems

Beloved characters can turn a once-rare name into a widely chosen favorite almost overnight. This happens with both animated icons and period dramas, and it clearly shapes what parents consider for their baby.

Disney darlings on the charts hold steady appeal across the U.S. SSA ranks show Aurora at No. 16, Jasmine No. 199, Ariel No. 299, Raya No. 363, Briar No. 521, Tiana No. 611, and Nala No. 752.

Regency revival from shows like Bridgerton lifts elegant, vintage picks. Eloise (No. 64), Phoebe (No. 183), Daphne (No. 192), and Francesca (No. 314) feel romantic yet usable. Hyacinth and Philippa are gathering interest, too.

  • Pop culture fuels baby girl choices: Disney names and Bridgerton-era options bring personality and story into a name.
  • Pairing idea: If you love Isla (island), use it with a Disney or Regency middle for a storybook combo.
  • Practical tip: Double-check spelling and pronunciation for classroom ease—well-known options help reduce corrections.

Names inspired by favorite tales often feel full of life and give your child a touchpoint she can enjoy. For subtlety, try adjacent picks like Briar, Phoebe, or Hyacinth instead of the most obvious choice.

Gender-neutral and unisex names gaining ground

Gender-neutral choices are reshaping how families think about baby names, offering flexible options that travel well across school, work, and life.

Modern picks to consider

Arrow, Cypress, Jupiter, Merritt, River, and Rowan are getting attention from Nameberry and other trend trackers. These options blend nature, surname-style structure, and bold imagery.

Neutral-to-masculine vibes for girls

The SSA shows neutral-to-masculine energy in rising picks like Billie and Scottie. Multiple Charlie spellings (Charlee, Charli, Charley, Charleigh) also appear across registries, giving parents flexible choices with built-in nicknames.

  • Flexible style: River, Rowan, Cypress, and Merritt suit siblings who share a modern, unisex aesthetic.
  • Bold but wearable: Arrow and Jupiter offer striking imagery while remaining easy to say.
  • Spunky options: Billie, Scottie, and Charlie variants bring a cool, casual vibe for a baby girl who loves activity and play.
  • Pairing tips: Use a delicate middle (Arrow Eloise) or a classic anchor (Rowan Claire) to balance novelty and tradition.
  • Regional check: Some neutral choices skew toward boys in parts of the U.S.; decide if that matters for your family.

Quick note: Unisex names give long-term versatility—your child can shape pronunciation, nicknames, and identity over time. Think initials and surname flow before you decide to keep the full name balanced and crisp.

Big trends shaping baby girl names in 2026

Across style camps, new impulses—from ancient classics to sleek vowel plays—are steering parental choice. Below are the most visible currents and a few example picks to spark your inspiration.

Ancient Civilizations

Marcella, Aurelian, Isidore, Olympia — these choices feel weighty and historical. They suit families who want a cultured name with clear roots.

Showgirl sparkle

Honey, Ophelia, Tallulah, Vivienne, Farrah bring glamor and vivid personality. Use one if you love maximalist flair with substance.

Soulful simplicity

Dove, Olive, Selah, Sunday, Vera favor calm meanings and everyday grace. These names read gentle and lasting.

Romantasy aura

Elowen, Isolde, Sabine, Cordelia sound storybook-lyrical. They pair well with vintage middles for a timeless feel.

Vowel hiatus names

Elio, Leonie, Noa, Soleia emphasize flowing vowel sequences. The result is breezy and internationally friendly.

Number Names & regional styles

Una, Seven, Octavia, Prima add symbolic meaning or birth-order nods. Meanwhile, Dottie, Lettie, Romee reflect a West-coast and Utah revival vibe.

Anime and Brit Lit influences

Rumi, Mira, Renji, Yumi and Darcy, Estella, Bronte, Zadie show how media and literature broaden taste. These picks balance modern edge and classic charm.

  • Use this short list to map which aesthetic—historic, glittery, soulful, romantic, vowel-forward, numeric, regional, anime, or literary—fits your family.

Meanings that resonate: light, life, nature, joy, and strength

Choosing a name for its meaning gives it staying power beyond trend cycles. Many families pick a first word that reflects a value or memory they hope to pass on.

Common meanings to know: Isabella means “pledged to God,” Olivia ties to the olive tree, Lucy means “light,” Imogen is often read as “maiden,” and Aurora suggests dawn and new life.

Rising picks add lively nuance. Elani carries “light of the sun,” Solana means “sunshine,” and Soraya evokes a cluster of stars. These options bring celestial and bright imagery into everyday use.

How to use meaning when deciding:

  • Anchor a choice in timeless concepts—light (Lucy, Elani), life and dawn (Aurora), tree and nature (Olivia).
  • Sacred and spiritual threads offer depth without overt religion—Isabella’s “pledged to God” or Selah’s calm tone fit well.
  • Pair a meaning-forward first with a family-honor middle to blend sentiment and heritage.
  • Check multiple sources for accurate meanings; some words have language variants.

Quick tip: If you love two meanings, create a first-middle combo that captures both joy and resilience. That way the name carries more than one intentional message for your baby and your family.

Popularity smart tips: how to balance unique with familiar

Choose a name that feels right at home: familiar enough to fit in, but distinct enough to stand out. Use national data as a starting point, then narrow with local checks and family taste.

Check SSA ranks to see current usage. A name outside the top 100 often reads familiar without being everywhere. Also watch the SSA fastest risers—those climbing names can feel much more common in a few years.

Practical checks before you decide

  • Compare lists: Cross-check SSA and BabyCenter to see what parents are choosing now versus long-term national use.
  • Balance first and middle: Pair a popular first with a rarer middle, or vice versa, to keep the full name distinctive.
  • Roll-call test: Imagine class or playground use to see if the name blends or stands out too much.
  • Watch gender overlaps: Unisex options may be used for boys and girls in your area—decide if that matters for your family.
  • Spelling and searchability: Pick intuitive spellings so your child spends less time correcting others.

“Local feel matters more than national rank—ask neighbors and family to hear how a name lands.”

Quick tip: Keep two backups and think about nicknames and initials. That way you can adapt if a favorite suddenly surges in popularity where you live.

U.S. naming notes: pronunciation, spelling, and cultural relevance

Names with clear sounds and respectful origins make introductions easier across places and generations.

Pronunciation matters. Double-check picks like Isla (pronounced “EYE-la”) and Noa (not Noah) so your child gets smooth introductions at school and activities.

If your family surname is also a place or island, say the full name aloud to hear rhythm and flow. Simple spellings cut down on corrections over the years.

  • Be mindful of cultural origins; learn the background before borrowing a name.
  • Check initials and monograms for unintended words, especially with hyphenated surnames.
  • Some names read differently for boys and girls in various regions—ask local parents or check community usage.
  • Consider likely nicknames and whether you like them.

“Revisit your shortlist after a week; names that still feel right usually have lasting appeal.”

Quick tip: Parents who test a name in conversation—introducing it to friends and family—get a realistic sense of how it will age across years.

How to choose the perfect name for your baby girl in 2026

Begin your search by listing what matters most: family roots, meaning, and a style that will age well. That simple filter helps you cut through long lists and focus on names that feel right for your life.

Aligning meaning, heritage, and future-friendly style

Pick three pillars—for example, meaning (light, tree, dawn), family heritage (Ancient Civilizations, Brit Lit), and style (unisex, vowel-forward, or soft endings). Aim for a name that hits at least two pillars so it feels both personal and practical.

Try the full-name test: say the first, your favorite middle, and your last name aloud. Record it, listen later, and imagine using the name at the playground, at school, and in professional settings.

  • Use meaningful words like light (Lucy, Elani) or tree (Olivia, Hazel) to guide choices.
  • Blend modern cues—vowel hiatus or -ani endings—with a classic middle to keep the baby name future-friendly.
  • Keep a short list and revisit it after a few days; the picks that still bring you joy are worth keeping.
  • Do practical checks: spelling, pronunciation, initials, and local feel before you finalize the perfect name.

“Names that survive a week of use and still feel right usually make the best long-term choice.”

Your next step: explore, shortlist, and find the name that brings you joy

Collect a handful of contenders and test them in real moments to see which one feels right.

Revisit the list on this page and star your top five girl names. Then trim to two or three favorites you’d be excited to give your daughter.

Compare meaning, sound, and flow with your last name. Say each baby name aloud in everyday phrases and imagine meeting teachers and friends.

Check SSA ranks, BabyCenter shifts, and Nameberry trends if you care how common a choice might feel. Let research guide, not decide, your final pick.

Make room for heart and head: share your short list with a partner, live with each option for a day, and choose the name that brings you joy and fits life.