James
James is a boy name that ranked #5 in the US in 2024. SSA records show it has appeared in official baby name data since 1880. Its best recorded rank was #1 in 1940.
Latest rank
#5
Peak rank
#1
Reached in 1940
Total recorded usage
5,213,689
Available where official count data exists
First recorded year
1880
What To Know About James
James remains one of the most durable boys' names in the English-speaking world. It signals familiarity and steadiness, but still works well for families who want a strong classic rather than something old-fashioned.
James is currently a top 10 boy name in the US, which puts it firmly in the mainstream for parents naming babies in 2024.
SSA data shows James appearing in official records as far back as 1880, which gives parents a concrete sense of how long the name has been in use.
Its strongest recorded US position was #1 in 1940, which helps frame whether today's ranking reflects a long plateau, a comeback, or a step down from an earlier peak.
Popularity Trend
Hover or tap a point for details. If a year is missing, the name was outside the published top list for that period.
Editorial Extras
Common nicknames: Jamie, Jim, Jimmy
Sibling style ideas: Henry, William, Charlotte, Elizabeth
Well-known namesakes: James Baldwin, writer; James Cook, explorer; James Bond, fictional character
Page Notes
Pronunciation: JAYMZ
Origin: Hebrew
Editorial status: published
Confidence: high
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Sources
- US Social Security Administration baby names · https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/Popularity rankings, usage history, and trend data are derived from SSA datasets.
- Behind the Name · https://www.behindthename.com/name/jamesUsed to review origin, usage history, and pronunciation guidance.