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Looking for baby boy names that are fresh, stylish, and totally on-trend for 2026? You’re in luck, mama! I’ve rounded up the top baby boy names for 2026 along with trending picks in categories like nature names, vintage gems, and short minimalist names parents can’t get enough of.
Here’s what’s in store –
Top Nature-Inspired & Earthy Boy Names
Most Popular Boy Names On The Top Charts
Rustic and Cowboy-Inspired Boy Names
Top Nature-Inspired & Earthy Boy Names
More and more, parents are turning to the natural world for inspiration, choosing names that feel grounded, fresh, and connected to the outdoors. From trees to skies and stones, these earthy names are some of the top nature-inspired boy names for 2026. Need more names like this? Check out this huge list of 115+ Earthy Boy Names next!
River
- Origin: English
- Meaning: flowing water
Forest
- Origin: English
- Meaning: woods, woodland
Orion
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: son of fire, constellation
Willow
- Origin: English
- Meaning: slender and graceful tree
Ocean
- Origin: English
- Meaning: sea, vast water
Sky
- Origin: English
- Meaning: heavens, open space
Cedar
- Origin: English
- Meaning: strong, fragrant tree
Phoenix
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: mythical firebird
Aspen
- Origin: English
- Meaning: tree with trembling leaves
Jett
- Origin: English
- Meaning: black stone
Gray
- Origin: English
- Meaning: grey-haired or grey
Onyx
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: black gemstone
Cole
- Origin: English
- Meaning: coal-black
Oakes
- Origin: English
- Meaning: from the oak tree
Wells
- Origin: English
- Meaning: spring, stream
Cove
- Origin: English
- Meaning: small bay
Winslow
- Origin: English
- Meaning: hill of victory
Everest
- Origin: English
- Meaning: highest peak
Knox
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: round hill
Brooks
- Origin: English
- Meaning: small stream
Top Vintage Boy Names
Old-fashioned names are coming back in style, bringing with them a sense of charm and tradition. These vintage picks feel classic yet modern, making them some of the top baby boy names with traditional roots. Love these names? Check out 235+ more vintage boy names next!
Edmund
- Origin: English
- Meaning: wealthy protector
Arthur
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: bear king
Otis
- Origin: German
- Meaning: wealth, prosperity
Felix
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: happy, fortunate
Hugo
- Origin: German
- Meaning: mind, intellect
Otto
- Origin: German
- Meaning: wealthy
Louis
- Origin: French/German
- Meaning: famous warrior
Benjamin
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: son of the right hand
Bennett
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: blessed
Julian
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: youthful
Robert
- Origin: German
- Meaning: bright fame
Albert
- Origin: German
- Meaning: noble, bright
Walter
- Origin: German
- Meaning: ruler of the army
Harrison
- Origin: English
- Meaning: son of Harry
Most Popular Boy Names On The Top Charts
These names are leading the charts in 2026 and continue to be favorites among parents. Classic, timeless, and modern picks all make an appearance on the list of the most popular boy names for 2026.
Liam
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: strong-willed warrior
Noah
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: rest, comfort
Oliver
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: olive tree
Theodore
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: gift of God
James
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: supplanter
Henry
- Origin: German
- Meaning: ruler of the home
Mateo
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: gift of God
Elijah
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: my God is Yahweh
Lucas
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: light-giving
William
- Origin: German
- Meaning: resolute protector
Last Names as First Names
Using surnames as first names has become a stylish trend, giving boys names that sound both modern and strong. These picks feel unique while still being easy to recognize.
Carter
- Origin: English
- Meaning: transporter of goods
Benson
- Origin: English
- Meaning: son of Ben
Cade
- Origin: English
- Meaning: round, barrel
Baker
- Origin: English
- Meaning: bread maker
Ellis
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: benevolent
Grayson
- Origin: English
- Meaning: son of the steward
Prescott
- Origin: English
- Meaning: priest’s cottage
Tanner
- Origin: English
- Meaning: leather worker
Beckett
- Origin: English
- Meaning: bee cottage
Hayes
- Origin: English
- Meaning: hedge or enclosure
Porter
- Origin: English
- Meaning: gatekeeper
Hollis
- Origin: English
- Meaning: dweller at the holly trees
Griffin
- Origin: Welsh/Latin
- Meaning: strong in faith or mythical creature, guardian
Spencer
- Origin: English
- Meaning: dispenser of provisions
Monroe
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: from the mouth of the river
Short & Minimalist Boy Names
Simple and sleek boy names are trending in 2026 for parents who love a clean, no-fuss style. Short boy names are easy to spell, easy to say, and packed with charm. Try out these one syllable boy names next if you love this style!
Leo
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: lion
Max
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: greatest
Sam
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God has heard
Ben
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: son
Eli
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: ascended, uplifted
Ian
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: God is gracious
Jay
- Origin: English
- Meaning: victory, jaybird
Tom
- Origin: Aramaic
- Meaning: twin
Gus
- Origin: German/Scandinavian
- Meaning: great, magnificent
Arlo
- Origin: English/Spanish
- Meaning: fortified hill
Ezra
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: help
Finn
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: fair
Lane
- Origin: English
- Meaning: path, road
Burke
- Origin: Irish/English
- Meaning: fortified hill
Rustic and Cowboy-Inspired Boy Names
Inspired by Western charm and rustic living, these top rustic boy names bring a rugged and adventurous feel. They’re bold, colorful, and perfect for parents who want something with personality. You might also love our huge list of Country Boy Names for your baby!
Crockett
- Origin: English
- Meaning: humpbacked
Enoch
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: dedicated
Harlan
- Origin: English
- Meaning: rocky land
Huck
- Origin: German
- Meaning: protector
Jethro
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: excellence
Waylon
- Origin: English
- Meaning: land by the road
Santos
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: saints
Ryatt
- Origin: English
- Meaning: brave
Colter
- Origin: English
- Meaning: he who lives near the coal
West
- Origin: English
- Meaning: from the west
Sterling
- Origin: English
- Meaning: high quality
Westley
- Origin: English
- Meaning: western meadow
Nash
- Origin: English
- Meaning: by the ash tree
Briggs
- Origin: English
- Meaning: bridge
Wyatt
- Origin: English
- Meaning: brave in war
Ace
- Origin: English
- Meaning: one, unity
Beau
- Origin: French
- Meaning: beautiful
Brody
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: ditch, muddy place
Colton
- Origin: English
- Meaning: coal town
Dylan
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: son of the sea
Top Gender-Neutral & Culturally Fluid Names
Short and modern-sounding, these names work beautifully for boys while also feeling fresh and versatile. Gender-neutral picks continue to rise in popularity as parents look for flexible options.
Quinn
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: wise, counsel
Lennon
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: small cloak or lover
Remy
- Origin: French
- Meaning: oarsman
Jordan
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: to descend, flow down
Parker
- Origin: English
- Meaning: park keeper
Darcy
- Origin: Irish/French
- Meaning: dark one
Kit
- Origin: English
- Meaning: carrier of christ
Mackenzie
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: son of Kenneth
Rowan
- Origin: Irish/Scottish
- Meaning: little red one, tree
Finley
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: fair hero
Riley
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: courageous
Dakota
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: friend, ally
Top Meaningful Boy Names
Global inspiration is trending as parents look for names that celebrate heritage and carry deep meanings. These culturally rich boy names stand out while also connecting to tradition.
Truce
- Origin: English
- Meaning: peace agreement
Luca
- Origin: Italian/Latin
- Meaning: light
Enzo
- Origin: Italian/German
- Meaning: ruler of the household
Kian
- Origin: Irish/Persian
- Meaning: ancient, enduring
Rafi
- Origin: Hebrew/Arabic
- Meaning: exalted, high
Kenzo
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: wise, healthy
Nico
- Origin: Italian/Greek
- Meaning: victory of the people
Soren
- Origin: Danish
- Meaning: stern
Zane
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God’s gracious gift
Jace
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: healer
Wrapping Up
The top baby boy names of 2026 offer something for every parent! From classic hits to nature-inspired and gender-neutral gems, there’s a name here for every little guy. Whatever you choose, it’s all about picking a name that feels right and makes your heart happy. Your baby deserves the perfect start with a name as awesome as he is!
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