43 Last-Name Baby Names, If You Want Something Chic & Gender-Neutral

Table of Contents

Baby names go up and down in popularity, but there are usually a few main categories that always exist. In recent years, classic and timeless names like Henry and Charlotte have topped the charts, and cool baby names have also climbed the ranks. After all, names that fit your baby’s last name are popular, and depending on what you’re looking for in a name, you might just find the perfect name for your baby.

Professional surnames have been popular names for many years. In past centuries, people and families were identified by occupation, which became what we now know as surnames. Surnames such as Butler, Carter, and Smith all originate from family businesses. These are classics and definitely deserve a spot on the list.

However, recently there seems to be a trend toward old-fashioned baby names, which is increasing the popularity of baby names with surnames. Names from prominent families like the Kennedys and the Clintons are associated with wealth and status, which some new parents highly value.

clark

Let me tell you, it only takes one name to become the next big name. It’s super cute on a boy, but if you ask me, it would be especially chic on a baby girl. It’s like a more sophisticated-sounding version of Charlie, another boy-turned-girl name that’s become very popular in recent years, but may now be becoming overused.

cooper

This is my son’s name, so you can say, yeah, I’m obsessed with it. Okeya is what coopers were once called, and is one of the professional surnames already mentioned. My husband and I both immediately liked the sound of it, in addition to it being a famous name, but we didn’t know anyone who had it in real life. Unique, but not too outlandish, right?

in Hollis

This name was on my baby list names yearbefore I had a boyfriend (don’t lie, you did too). This is an English-derived name meaning “near the holly tree” and has historically been used for both boys and girls.

merit

Ever since actress Merritt Weaver brought this name to my attention, I’ve been hooked. If I had a little girl, this would definitely be a potential name for her. However, it is a name commonly used for boys. A British surname meaning “boundary gate.”

spencer

If you’re torn between choosing a last name for your first name or something a little more modern, we think Spencer is a great name to split the difference. It has a cool kid’s vibe and will be edgy for boys and girls alike.