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Choosing a baby name is a big deal. Do you go trendy? Timeless? In a different language? Mom and Dad's names combined? One thing is for sure: what's "out" today might be the hottest name tomorrow. And if you're looking for inspiration, history has plenty to offer. Once considered old-fashioned, vintage names are making a serious comeback.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has been tracking baby names since 1879, and a peek at their records shows some classic names are rising from the ashes. Some—like James and John—never really left. But others, like Shirley, Betty, and Barbara, have taken a long break and might just be ready for their moment again. Whether you love a name with history or want your little one to stand out in a sea of trendy names, these throwback picks deserve a second look.
Here's a look at the most popular names from the 1930s and where they rank today. Some have held strong, while others are overdue for a revival.
Mary (Meaning: "drop of the sea," "bitterness," or "beloved")
Mary was once the queen of baby names, holding the top spot for decades. It was the number one name in the 1930s. According to the SSA ranking, it's slipped down the list, but that means it's prime for a comeback; the name holds the 135 position. It's simple, classic, and works in just about any era.
Robert (Meaning: "bright fame")
Robert is a solid, traditional name that never really faded. According to the SSA, its rank in the 1930s was number 1. With cool nickname options like Rob, Bobby, and Bob, it's versatile. The SSA reports that its ranking today is 89.
Betty (Meaning: "pledged to God")
Betty is pure retro charm. It ruled the baby name charts in the 1930s but disappeared in recent decades. The SSA reported its ranking in the 1930s as position number 2, while today it is unranked; thanks to a new wave of vintage revival (and Riverdale's Betty Cooper), this one might be ready to shine again.
James (Meaning: "supplanter")
James never really left. After being in the second position in the 1930s, today ranks in the 4th place thanks to its effortlessly cool vibe, which works for all ages. The moniker has a long history of famous namesakes. It's also increasingly popular for baby girls, adding to its appeal. Queue Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' daughter, James, also have a pre-schooler named Betty.
Barbara (Meaning: "foreigner")
In the 1930s, Barbara ranked third, which might seem like a grandma name, but that's precisely why it's ripe for a revival. Although it ranks in the 877th spot today, the moniker has many adorable nicknames—Babs, Barbie, and Bebe. Plus, if names like Eleanor and Beatrice can come back, why not Barbara?
John (Meaning: "God is gracious")
John is one of those timeless classics that never really fades. It's strong, simple, and universally recognized. SSA ranked it third in the 1930s. It holds the 26 spot today, so if you want something traditional yet always in style, this one's a safe bet.
Patricia (Meaning: "noble")
Patricia had its heyday in the mid-20th century. During the 1930s, the name was fifth. While it is unranked today, it's got a polished, regal feel that could make it a fresh choice. Plus, Tricia, Patty, and Patsy are cute nickname options.
Richard (Meaning: "strong ruler")
Richard has been a strong, masculine name for centuries. Though it's lost popularity, nicknames like Richie and Rick could make it appealing again. The SSA ranking in the 1930s was 5; today, it is 221.
William (Meaning: "resolute protector")
William is proof that some names never go out of style. It's classic, royal-approved, and has endless nickname options, like Will, Bill, and Liam. The SSA ranking in the 1930s was 4; today, it is in the 10th position.
Dorothy (Meaning: "gift of God")
Dorothy might still bring to mind "The Wizard of Oz," but that's part of its charm. Ranked sixth in the 1930s and placed 467th today, Dorothy is vintage and cute and has nicknames like Dot and Dottie.
Joan (Meaning: "God is gracious")
Joan was once a powerhouse name (hello, Joan of Arc), and it's got that no-nonsense, retro appeal that's due for a comeback. SSA's ranking in the 1930s was 7.
Margaret (Meaning: "pearl")
Margaret is an old-school classic with a ton of nickname potential—Maggie, Meg, Greta, Peggy. It's elegant yet down-to-earth. The SSA ranking in the 1930s was 8. The SSA ranking today is 132.
George (Meaning: "farmer")
George is charmingly old-fashioned but still widely used, thanks partly to the British royal family. It's simple, strong, and timeless. The SSA ranking in the 1930s was 8, and today is in the 136th position.
Thomas (Meaning: "twin")
With the SSA ranking in the 1930s at 9, Thomas is another name that never really fell out of favor. It has a friendly and familiar feel, with Tom and Tommy as built-in nicknames. The SSA ranking today is 41.
Shirley (Meaning: "bright meadow")
Ranked in the 1930s in the 4th position, Shirley was making headlines everywhere during the Great Depression, thanks to Shirley Temple. Although Shirley has fallen off the SSA list, parents started to reclaim it. If you don't believe us, read this article's author's name
Helen (Meaning: "torch" or "shining light")
Helen has that sophisticated, old Hollywood vibe. If Eleanor and Evelyn can return, Helen might be next, even if today's SSA ranking is 397.
Nancy (Meaning: "grace" or "pure")
Nancy had a major run in the mid-century (SSA ranking in the 1930s: 9) and then disappeared. But with names like Sally and Bonnie creeping back, Nancy might not be far behind.
If you're on the hunt for a name that feels fresh but has history, these vintage gems are worth considering. Speaking of gems, read here if you are curious about your birthstone.
So, whether you love a timeless classic like William or a ready-for-a-revival name like Betty, there's something special about bringing an old favorite back to life. Who knows? Your baby's name might be the next big comeback.