A select few names have continued to be incredibly popular for the tens of thousands of babies born in Alberta during 2022.
Olivia and Noah—minus one year where the name dropped to number two—have been the top names of choice for Albertan parents since 2013 and 2017.
Liam, formerly the top name during the 2010s, regained the second spot after falling to fourth in 2021. Sophia, which was only eighth on the list in 2018, has also risen to the second spot in Alberta’s rankings.
“To those expecting a baby in 2023, or to those who are just plain curious, I encourage you to check out the baby names lists from years past,” said Dale Nally, Minister for Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction.
Among the rising names is Theodore, which went from 115 in 2012 to number three for 2022.
Harper was the highest-ranked rising girl’s name, which went from 43 in 2012 to number 5 in 2022.
The top consecutive names besides Olivia and Liam, have been Jessia for six years between 1990 and 1995, Emily for five years between 1998 and 2002, Ethan for nine years between 2001 and 2009, and Matthews for five years between 1995 and 1999.
And of the names given to 15 or more children in 2022, Archie, Martin and Leonardo were among the bottom for the boys, and Ophelia, Navy, and Hope for the girls.
In 2022, 24,781 boys were born, compared to 23,437 girls.
Some of the names chosen reflect places (Brooklyn, Georgia, London); animals (Wren, Bear, Fox); religious figures (Muhammad, Adam, Noah); mythology (Penelope, Apollo, Phoenix); plants and flowers (Juniper, Daisy, Violet, Lily, Willow, Hazel, Ivy); literature (Huxley); musicians (Prince, Lennon, Presley); seasons (Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn); sports (Beckham, Evander); actors (Leonardo); and other figures from pop culture (Casey, Maverick), the province said Thursday.
