Statistics Canada has just updated its list of the most popular baby names across the country, and the results might surprise you.
The agency recently added 2023 data to its Baby Names Observatory, unveiling the 20 most popular names for boys and girls. This update offers an insightful glimpse into naming trends in Canada, showing how preferences have evolved over recent years.
For the third consecutive year, Noah has secured the title of the most popular name for boys in Canada, a position it claimed back in 2020 when it surpassed Liam.
Following Noah, familiar favourites like Liam, Theodore, and Leo dominate the list.
One of the notable highlights this year is Arthur, which made its first-ever appearance on the list since the database began in 1991, coming in at number 20. This newcomer adds a classic charm to an otherwise trend-forward set of names.
Here are the top 20 names for boys in 2023, along with the number of newborns given each name:
- Noah — 2,162
- Liam — 1,813
- Theodore — 1,484
- Leo — 1,416
- William — 1,341
- Oliver — 1,245
- Lucas — 1,184
- Thomas — 1,154
- Benjamin — 1,134
- Jack — 1,132
- James — 1,122
- Jacob — 1,086
- Ethan — 1,012
- Nathan — 1,009
- Adam — 969
- Henry — 943
- Theo — 900
- Logan — 891
- Owen — 852
- Arthur — 818
On the girls’ side, Olivia continues to dominate, holding the number one spot for the eighth consecutive year. The name has been consistently popular, followed by Emma, Charlotte, and Amelia — a top four that has remained unchanged since 2020.
Another interesting shift in the girls’ list is the reappearance of Maya, which made a comeback in the top 20 for the first time since 2010, landing at number 19.
Here are the top 20 names for girls in 2023:
- Olivia — 1,650
- Emma — 1,416
- Charlotte — 1,412
- Amelia — 1,102
- Sophia — 1,051
- Mia — 924
- Chloe — 920
- Mila — 915
- Sofia — 887
- Alice — 793
- Ava — 772
- Lily — 766
- Isla — 759
- Ellie — 700
- Evelyn — 698
- Zoe — 697
- Nora — 681
- Sophie — 675
- Maya — 667
- Charlie — 647
This year’s list highlights both continuity and change. While names like Olivia and Noah continue their reign at the top, classic choices like Arthur and Maya are making a resurgence.
It’s a mix that reflects both a nod to tradition and the influence of modern naming trends.
These names not only provide a snapshot of Canadian culture but also indicate broader patterns in naming preferences — where timeless classics sit comfortably alongside new favourites.
Whether you’re expecting or simply curious, the list offers plenty of inspiration for those on the hunt for the perfect baby name.
