These Are the Most Rare and Unique Baby Names in Every State

Considering the millions and millions of baby names in the world, it can be surprising just how many popular names show up in generation after generation. Emma, Jack, Elizabeth, Noah—these names have sat at the top of the ranks for years, but what about the parents who want something more rare? Those who are in search of a unique baby name that captures their heritage, culture, and personal taste, all while helping their little one stand out?

A new analysis by PR Superstar combed through Social Security Administration birth records from 2015 to 2025 and identified rare baby names by state in the U.S., and we’re here to share all the data with you. Whether you’re looking for a twist on a classic name or something entirely unheard of, these rare baby names listed by state will be all the inspiration you’ll need.

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What’s Considered a Rare Name?

This study examined the rarest baby names in each state using data from the Social Security Administration, covering the years 2015 to 2025 for both national and state databases. The research team focused exclusively on names that had at least five births between 2015 and 2025 in each state. Names with fewer than five births are not included in the data for privacy purposes, and Alaska and Hawaii samples were likely too small.

Once all the data was collected, the team compared each state’s names with the national total for that name, so that they could determine how much of the national share came from each state.

Full List of Rarest Names by State

Below you’ll find the full list of rarest baby names by state, including the total number of births for each name, both statewide and nationally. We also included the state’s share of national births for that name.

Rarest Name in Each State with Meanings

Curious about what makes these names so unique? Keep reading for a breakdown of each state’s rarest name, including its origins and meaning.

Alabama: Tameria

With Hebrew and Arabic roots, Tamaria means “palm tree” or “one who tames” and appears in the Bible multiple times—so for a baby raised in faith, this is a great choice. There’s also room for tons of fun nicknames: Tam, Tammy, Ria, and more.

Arizona: Luisfernando

This traditional Spanish and Portuguese boy name combines Luis (“famous warrior”) and Fernando (“bold protector”). It’s also deeply rooted in Hispanic heritage and European royalty. 

Arkansas: Kyzeir

Pronounced “KAI-zeer,” Kyzeir is a modern variant of more traditional names like Kaiser and Qasair. Its Arabic roots also give way to meanings like “king” and “emperor.”

California: Hrach

Hrach is a traditional boy’s name of Armenian origin that translates to “fiery eyes” or “fire-eyed.” Evidently, this is a great title for a little boy with a spunky spirit and lots of energy.

Colorado: Ezelio

With a blend of Hebrew and Italian roots, this charming and rare boy name means “God has kept near” as well as “God will help.” Additionally, nickname options include adorable picks like Leo, Zelli, or Ezzie.

Connecticut: Lukasz

This traditional Polish boy’s name is derived from the Greek name Loukas, meaning “man from Lucania.” It’s also closely tied to lux, meaning “light.”

Delaware: Kasai

Looking for something unique and gender-neutral? Consider Kasai, a Japanese baby name that means “fire” as well as “flame.”

Florida: Aleyshka

This unique baby name is likely a blend of multiple name, such as Aleysha or the Russian diminutive Aleshka. It’s pronounced uh-LAY-sh-ka and carries meanings such as “mainland” and “defender of mankind.”

Georgia: Payton

For parents who want something modern and edgy, Payton is an excellent baby name choice, whether you’re naming a boy or a girl! It also has Irish and British roots and means “noble.”

Idaho: Alexys

This traditional Greek name means “man’s defender.” It is also one of the many variants derived from Alexander or Alexandra.

Illinois: Yy

It’s hard to pinpoint an exact meaning or origin for this modern name because it’s likely a variant of multiple different names. While it’s possible that it’s a twist on sweet Y girl names like Yasmin or Yuli, it could also be a different take on boy names like Yuri or Yosef.

Indiana: Mamadou

Of West African origin, Mamadou means “praised” or “praised-worthy.” It’s also considered to be a regional variant of the very common Arabic boy name Muhammad. 

Iowa: Brex

Rare, short, and sweet, Brex’s one-syllable nature makes it a charming choice for a little boy. While its exact roots are unknown, it’s a great nickname choice for names like Braxton or Brexton. 

Kansas: Witt

Stemming from the name DeWitt, Witt has Dutch and Flemish roots, and also translates to “blond” or “white-haired.” If you have a family full of blondies, consider this charming gender-neutral name.

Kentucky: Mauwa

Mauwa’s Arabic and African roots give way to meanings like “nurturer” and “one who brings joy.” Additionally, in many African cultures, this name is given to celebrate the arrival of a child, which makes it an excellent choice for expectant parents.

Lousiana: Jherzi

This modern name is pronounced “JER-zee” and represents a popular trend of adding silent letters and unique spellings to otherwise traditional words. While it’s primarily a feminine name, it can definitely be used for boys, too. 

Maine: Horace

If there are any Harry Potter fans reading this, you may recognize Horace from Horace Slughorn, head of Slytherin House and Potions Master in the series’ sixth book. But even if you don’t know anything about Harry Potter, this Latin boy’s name has refreshing meanings like “season” and “time.”  

Maryland: Imisioluwa

This Nigerian first name means “the breath of God” or “inspiration from God.” While it’s primarily a girl’s name that carries deep religious devotion, it can also be used for boys.

Massachusetts: Enzogabriel

This masculine name is a compound of Enzo (“ruler of the home”) and Gabriel (“God is my strength”), as well as a modern, double-barrel first name that carries Italian and Hispanic heritage.

Michigan: Breslynn

A derivative of the Irish and Celtic name Breslin, Breslynn is a modern, American twist on a classic. Plus, the suffix “-lyn” is becoming more and more popular in modern baby naming—so you’ll be right on trend!

Minnesota: Raqiya

Raqiya is a modern Arabic girl’s name that means “ascending,” “rising,” as well as “elevated.” Therefore, it’s perfect for a little girl who shoots for the stars.

Mississippi: Rahzi

Of Arabic origin, Rahzi is gender-neutral and means “noble” and “honorable,” as well as “healer.” Not only is it adorable, but it’s timeless and able to grow with your child over the years. 

Missouri: Tyberius

Any history buffs may recognize this one as a bold, modern spelling of the former Roman Emperor Tiberius, as well as the famous river. Unsurprisingly, the name’s Latin roots translate to “of the Tiber” or “Near the Tiber.”

Montana: Treysen

Treysen combines everything we love about modern baby naming trends! Not only is it a compound of Trey (“three”) and the popular suffix “-sen,” but it has English and American roots and only emerged in the early 2000s.

Nebraska: Kinnick

Derived from a Scottish surname, Kinnick as a first name is unique and charming, while having all American roots. You may also recognize this one as the last name of football legend Nile Kinnick, who won the Heisman trophy. 

Nevada: Yazaira

Yazaria is an Arabic and Spanish girl’s name that means “radiant,” “blossom,” and “flower,” so for a little girl with a warm spirit and big heart, this is a fitting title.

New Hampshire: Mackenna

For a more unique spelling of Mckenna, consider Mackenna, which has American as well as Irish roots. Furthermore, it translates to “born of fire” and is a perfect name for a fiery little one with a big personality. 

New Jersey: Nisson

While you may recognize this one for the famous car brand, Nisson is actually derived from Nissan, which has Hebrew and Babylonian roots and means “miracle.” Because welcoming a baby feels like such a miracle, this name is a great fit for any new child.

New Mexico: Azriella

Not to be biased, but this Hebrew girl’s name might be my favorite on the list. Additionally, its lyrical sound and charming translation to “God is my help” make it a great fit for a little girl raised in faith. 

New York: Mehjabeen

This traditional Arabic girl’s name means “moon face,” as well as “beautiful as the moon.” While rarer in Western countries, this is a more common moniker in Eastern Muslim communities.

North Carolina: Makenize

This rare first name may come from the more common Mackenzie, another name with Scottish roots that translates to “comely” or “handsome.” Furthermore, its unique spelling and pronunciation make it a great fit for parents who want something truly special. 

North Dakota: Brekken

Looking for a name inspired by nature and the outdoors? Consider Brekken! Not only does it mean “hill” or “slope,” but it has undeniable ties to the countryside.

Ohio: Keirsten

This Latin girl’s name means “follower of Christ.” You may also recognize it as the name of famous American Girl Doll Kirsten Larson (though the spelling varies), a Swedish immigrant who settled on a Minnesota farmstead.

Oklahoma: Guthrie

Another Scottish and Gaelic name, this one means “windy” or “windy spot.” While some say this may work better as a surname, its sharp sound is appealing to many parents.

Oregon: Bodin

Looking for something more unique than Bodie? While Bodin looks similar, its varied spelling and charming translations to “shelter” and “one who brings news” make it a unique option for new parents.

Pennsylvania: Muslim

For followers of Islam, this name captures so much meaning for a family of Muslim faith.

Rhode Island: Jahziel

For those in search of a rarer biblical name, consider Jahziel, a Hebrew name meaning “God apportions” or “God allocates.” It’s also the perfect blend of traditional and modern. 

South Carolina: Heyward

For a little one bound to have a green thumb, Heyward is perfectly on the nose. Not only is it a nature-inspired name, but its British roots translate to “keeper of the hedges.”

South Dakota: Kimimila

This traditional Native American girl’s name means “butterfly” and is oh-so-perfect for your bundle of joy ready to spread her wings.

Tennessee: Knoxleigh

Another name with English and Scottish roots that blends into a delightfully modern pick for a little girl. Additionally, the suffix “-leigh” translates to “meadow” or “clearing,” making this a perfect pick for a family with a strong connection to nature.

Texas: Joemichael

This rare, compound name blends Joe (“God is gracious”) and Michael (“Who is like God?”). Therefore, it may be chosen by parents looking for a unique name with faith-based roots.

Utah: Sosaia

Of Polynesian origin, Sosaia is actually the Tongan and Samoan form of the biblical name Josiah or Joshua. It also translates to “God supports and heals.”

Vermont: Harriet

One of the strongest choices for a girl on this list, Harriet is a German name that means “home ruler.” Of course, it’s impossible to hear this name and not think of Harriet Tubman, an American abolitionist who led thousands of slaves to freedom.

Virginia: Lakhi

With translations like “wealth” and “prosperity,” this traditional South Asian name that starts with L is a meaningful choice for parents who want to impart a future of abundance to their little one.

Washington: Ishira

Do you have a baby who is already active and full of energy, even in your belly? Consider Ishira, a Japanese name that means “radiance” or “full of energy.”

West Virginia: Bransen

Another British surname that broke through the mold and became a first name pick, even in the United States! While Bransen translates to “Son of Brand,” its crisp sound makes it a strong and masculine choice for a little boy. 

Wisconsin: Laverda

This rare feminine name has Italian roots and means “to wash.” It’s also famously recognized as an Italian motorcycle brand, so for a little one with road trips in her future, this could be a meaningful choice.

Wyoming: Mazikeen

Another name of Hebrew origin, Mazikeen means “harmful spirits” or “damage doers.” While the connotation may sound negative, sometimes the rule breakers and risk takers are the most successful.

FAQs

What counts as a “rare” baby name?

In this study, the research team focused on baby names that had at least five births between 2015 and 2025 in each state. Then, the team compared each state’s names with the national total for that name, so that they could determine how much of the national share came from each state. Finally, the names with the highest share in a particular state were ranked as the rarest.

What are some rare girl names?

Rare girl names reported across the United States include Knoxleigh, Azriella, and Tameria.

What are some rare boy names?

Rare boy names reported across the United States include Bodin, Treysen, and Nisson.

Do rare names vary by state or region?

Yes! Certain names, like Harriet, are very uncommon in a certain state, while much more common nationwide.

Should I give my child a rare baby name?

Baby naming is a personal decision, but there are lots of benefits to choosing a rare baby name. These kinds of first names allow parents to blend their heritage and culture with a title that will help their little one stand out.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant

As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.

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