For half a decade, Olivia and Liam have reigned as Arizona’s top picks for baby names. However, a challenger has emerged on the scene, aiming to claim the throne.
Despite Arizona’s lack of proximity to large bodies of water, the current buzz around baby names in 2024 suggests a shift. According to data from Google Trends, the name most frequently searched for by Arizonans this year is Isla, evoking images of distant shores and serene waters. Derived from Islay, an island nestled off Scotland’s coastline, Isla has captured the attention of expectant parents in the state.
Pronounced as EYE-la, Isla carries additional significance in Spanish, where it means “island,” maintaining its connection to themes of natural beauty and tranquility.
Babycenter.com elaborates on the global appeal of the name, pointing out its counterparts in different cultures. In France, the name Ila holds similar meanings, while in Greek, Iola is associated with dawn, and in Hebrew, Illa signifies a tree. These variations underscore the name’s ties to nature and its diverse interpretations across various languages and traditions.
Despite its Scottish roots, Isla’s widespread appeal lies in its inherent strength and feminine charm, making it a compelling choice for many parents-to-be.
As we reflect on the shifting trends, it’s worth revisiting the top 10 baby names from the previous year in Arizona:
GIRLS
- Olivia (361)
- Isabella (274)
- Emma (271)
- Mia (271)
- Camila (265)
- Sophia (261)
- Amelia (244)
- Charlotte (236)
- Evelyn (197)
- Luna (194)
BOYS
- Liam (428)
- Mateo (423)
- Noah (365)
- Oliver (289)
- Santiago (270)
- Elijah (254)
- Sebastian (251)
- Ezra (233)
- Levi (228)
- Benjamin (224)
There’s a chance that Isla could become this year’s reigning baby name champion in Arizona.