300+ American Last Names or Surnames with Origins & Meanings

Ever wondered why there are so many Smiths in your phone book? Or maybe you’ve been curious about what your own last name might reveal about your family’s past? American surnames tell fascinating stories of immigration, cultural identity, and family history that span generations.

In this deep dive into American last names, we’ll explore everything from the most common surnames to their origins, meanings, and the changing landscape of American family names. Let’s uncover the stories written in the names we carry through life.

American Last Names

Here’s a look at 20 American last names that reflect our diverse heritage. Each name has its own story to tell!

• Smith – English origin meaning “metal worker or blacksmith.” America’s most common surname came with early English settlers and spread across the country.
• Johnson – English origin meaning “son of John.” This patronymic name reflects the popularity of John across many European cultures.
• Williams – Welsh origin meaning “son of William.” A common surname particularly concentrated in areas with historical Welsh settlement.
• Brown – English origin describing someone with brown hair or complexion. One of the most widespread descriptive surnames in America.
• Jones – Welsh origin meaning “son of John.” Another patronymic name that shows the significant Welsh influence on American naming patterns.
• Garcia – Spanish origin derived from the Basque word “gaztea” meaning “young.” Reflects Hispanic immigration and the growing diversity of American surnames.
• Miller – English and German origin meaning “grain mill operator.” Shows how occupational surnames crossed language barriers.
• Davis – Welsh origin meaning “son of David.” Another patronymic name with strong Welsh roots.
• Rodriguez – Spanish origin meaning “son of Rodrigo.” Demonstrates the important Hispanic influence on American surname patterns.
• Martinez – Spanish origin meaning “son of Martin.” One of the fastest-growing surnames in modern America.
• Hernandez – Spanish origin meaning “son of Hernando.” Common in regions with significant Hispanic populations.
• Lopez – Spanish origin derived from “lobo” meaning “wolf.” Originally a nickname that became hereditary.
• Gonzalez – Spanish origin meaning “son of Gonzalo.” Shows the growing diversity of America’s surname landscape.
• Wilson – English origin meaning “son of Will.” A patronymic name found throughout the English-speaking world.
• Anderson – Scandinavian and Scottish origin meaning “son of Anders/Andrew.” Reflects northern European immigration patterns.
• Thomas – Welsh origin meaning “twin.” Originally a first name that became adopted as a surname.
• Taylor – English occupational surname meaning “tailor.” Shows how jobs became hereditary family names.
• Moore – English and Irish origin referring to someone who lived near a moor or marsh. A geographical surname with multiple cultural roots.
• Jackson – English origin meaning “son of Jack.” Another patronymic name that became extremely common.
• Martin – English, French and German origin derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. Shows how names crossed cultural and linguistic boundaries.

These diverse surnames reflect America’s melting pot heritage. If you’re interested in more culturally specific surnames, check out our guide to Irish last names or German last names.

Top American Last Names

Looking at the most prevalent surnames in the United States reveals fascinating patterns of immigration and cultural influence. These names dominate phone books across America!

• Smith – The quintessential occupational surname referring to blacksmiths, with over 2.4 million Americans carrying this name today.
• Johnson – “Son of John” ranks second with nearly 2 million Americans bearing this surname that crossed multiple European cultures.
• Williams – This Welsh patronymic meaning “son of William” is carried by over 1.6 million Americans, particularly concentrated in the South.
• Brown – Over 1.4 million Americans have this descriptive surname that originally referred to someone with brown hair or complexion.
• Jones – Another Welsh patronymic meaning “son of John,” held by approximately 1.4 million Americans with particularly high concentrations in the Appalachian region.
• Garcia – The most common Hispanic surname in America with around 1.2 million people, reflecting significant immigration from Spanish-speaking countries.
• Miller – About 1.2 million Americans carry this occupational surname referring to those who operated grain mills.
• Davis – Derived from “son of David,” approximately 1.1 million Americans share this Welsh surname.
• Rodriguez – With roughly 1.1 million Americans, this Spanish patronymic shows the growing Hispanic influence on American surnames.
• Martinez – Another Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Martin,” shared by about 1.1 million Americans.
• Hernandez – Approximately 1 million Americans carry this Spanish surname meaning “son of Hernando.”
• Lopez – Around 900,000 Americans share this Spanish surname originally derived from the word for “wolf.”
• Gonzalez – Nearly 900,000 Americans have this Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Gonzalo.”
• Wilson – About 800,000 Americans carry this English surname meaning “son of Will.”
• Anderson – Approximately 800,000 Americans share this Scandinavian and Scottish name meaning “son of Anders/Andrew.”
• Thomas – Around 750,000 Americans bear this surname derived from the Aramaic word for “twin.”
• Taylor – This occupational surname referring to tailors is shared by approximately 750,000 Americans.
• Moore – About 750,000 Americans carry this geographical surname referring to someone who lived near a moor.
• Jackson – Nearly 700,000 Americans share this patronymic meaning “son of Jack.”
• Martin – Approximately 700,000 Americans bear this surname derived from Mars, the Roman god of war.

These names tell a story of America’s predominantly English, Welsh, and Spanish influences. For a different cultural perspective, explore our articles on Chinese last names or Italian last names that are becoming increasingly common in America.

Unique American Last Names

While common surnames dominate our phone books, these unique American last names stand out from the crowd with their distinctive histories and origins:

• Quackenbush – Dutch origin meaning “marshy woods.” This distinctive surname is primarily found in areas with early Dutch settlement like New York.
• Rippetoe – Likely derived from a place name in England. One of the more unusual English-derived surnames in America.
• Barefoot – English nickname surname possibly given to someone who often went without shoes or had a connection to religious orders who went barefoot.
• Christmas – English origin given to someone born on Christmas Day or who played the role of Father Christmas in medieval festivals.
• Drinkwater – English origin likely given as a nickname to someone who abstained from alcohol in times when water wasn’t always safe to drink.
• Bonebreak – German-American origin, likely an Anglicized form of “Bonbrake” or similar German names.
• Winterbottom – English geographical surname for someone who lived in a valley that was particularly cold in winter.
• Picklesimon – Highly unusual surname of uncertain origin, possibly an Americanized version of a European name.
• Tacklebox – Extremely rare surname that may have been created or changed in America, possibly from a nickname.
• Youngblood – English nickname surname often given to a person of youthful appearance or vigorous nature.
• Pancake – Likely occupational, possibly for someone who made or sold pancakes.
• Sugarman – Occupational surname for someone who traded in sugar or had an unusually sweet disposition.
• Shufflebottom – English geographical surname referring to someone from a valley with shifting soil.
• Fishbough – Likely derived from a German surname like “Fischbach” meaning “fish stream.”
• Sidebottom – English geographical surname for someone who lived at the bottom of a hillside.
• Peppercorn – English nickname possibly given to a spice merchant or someone who paid rent with peppercorns.
• Threadgill – English origin combining “thread” with “gill” (ravine), possibly referring to a narrow stream.
• Outhouse – English geographical surname for someone who lived in a dwelling separate from the main house.
• Hogshead – English occupational surname for someone who made barrels (a hogshead is a large cask).
• Crankshaw – English geographical surname combining “crank” (winding) and “shaw” (woodland), referring to a winding woodland.

These unique names stand out in a world of Smiths and Johnsons! For more distinctive surnames, check out our article on funny last names that will make you smile.

Most Common US Surnames

These surnames are the most frequently encountered in U.S. Census data, reflecting both historical immigration patterns and more recent demographic changes:

• Smith – From Old English “smitan” meaning “to strike.” With over 2.4 million bearers, it dominates American surname rankings due to the essential role of blacksmiths in every community.
• Johnson – From “John’s son.” This patronymic is shared by approximately 1.9 million Americans and appears commonly across all ethnic groups.
• Williams – Welsh patronymic meaning “son of William.” About 1.6 million Americans share this name that ranks particularly high among African Americans.
• Brown – From Old English “brun” referring to brown hair or complexion. Approximately 1.4 million Americans share this descriptive surname.
• Jones – Welsh patronymic meaning “John’s son” with different linguistic roots than Johnson. Shared by roughly 1.4 million Americans.
• Garcia – From Basque “gaztea” meaning “young.” About 1.2 million Americans carry this surname, reflecting Hispanic immigration.
• Miller – Occupational name from Old English “mylnere” for one who operates a grain mill. Approximately 1.2 million Americans have this surname.
• Davis – Welsh patronymic meaning “son of David.” Around 1.1 million Americans share this name.
• Rodriguez – Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Rodrigo.” About 1.1 million Americans carry this rapidly growing surname.
• Martinez – Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Martin.” Approximately 1.1 million Americans have this name.
• Hernandez – Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Hernando.” Roughly 1 million Americans share this surname.
• Lopez – Spanish surname derived from “lobo” meaning “wolf.” About 900,000 Americans carry this name.
• Gonzalez – Spanish patronymic meaning “son of Gonzalo.” Nearly 900,000 Americans have this surname.
• Wilson – English patronymic meaning “son of Will.” Approximately 800,000 Americans share this name.
• Anderson – Scandinavian and Scottish patronymic meaning “son of Anders/Andrew.” About 800,000 Americans carry this surname.
• Thomas – Derived from Aramaic “ta’oma” meaning “twin.” Around 750,000 Americans have this surname.
• Taylor – English occupational surname for a tailor. Approximately 750,000 Americans share this name.
• Moore – Geographical surname referring to someone who lived by a moor or marsh. About 750,000 Americans carry this name.
• Jackson – English patronymic meaning “son of Jack.” Nearly 700,000 Americans have this surname.
• Martin – From Latin “Martinus,” derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. Approximately 700,000 Americans share this name.

The prevalence of these names shows America’s English, Welsh, and growing Hispanic influences. For more specific name origins, see our guides to Scottish last names or Mexican last names.

Cute American Last Names

Some last names just have a pleasant, charming quality to them—whether through their meaning, sound, or cultural associations:

• Darling – English origin meaning exactly what it sounds like – someone who was dear or beloved. Originally a nickname that became hereditary.
• Sweet – English nickname surname given to someone with a pleasant disposition or possibly to someone who worked with sweet foods.
• Bunny – Rare English nickname surname possibly given to someone who was quick or had rabbit-like features.
• Bird – English nickname surname for someone who was bird-like in appearance or sang beautifully.
• Flowers – English occupational surname for someone who grew or sold flowers.
• Goodman – English descriptive surname meaning a trustworthy or reliable person.
• Lamb – English nickname surname for someone gentle or possibly a shepherd of lambs.
• Cherry – English surname from the fruit, possibly for someone who grew cherries or had rosy cheeks.
• Honeycutt – English geographical surname derived from “honey cottage,” possibly where honey was produced.
• Kidd – English or Scottish nickname for someone youthful or who tended young goats.
• Fairchild – English descriptive surname meaning “beautiful child” or “fair child.”
• Littlejohn – English nickname for someone small in stature with the first name John.
• Poppins – Rare English surname popularized by the fictional character Mary Poppins.
• Penny – English surname derived from a pet form of Peter or from the coin.
• Daisy – English surname derived from the flower name, originally given to people who lived near fields of daisies.
• Dove – English nickname surname for someone with a gentle nature or white hair.
• Button – English occupational surname for a maker or seller of buttons.
• Peach – English nickname surname for someone with rosy complexion or a pleasing personality.
• Candy – English occupational surname for someone who made or sold candy/sweets.
• Sunshine – Very rare American created surname, possibly adopted in the 20th century.

These charming surnames bring a smile to your face! For more nature-inspired surnames, check out our collection of nature last names that capture the beauty of the natural world.

Cool American Last Names

Some surnames just have an undeniably cool factor—whether through their meaning, sound, or cultural associations:

• Steele – English occupational surname for someone who worked with steel. The strong material association gives this name its cool edge.
• Storm – English, German or Scandinavian surname referring to someone with a tempestuous personality or who lived in an area prone to storms.
• Savage – English from Old French “sauvage” originally meaning someone who lived in the woods. The modern connotation gives it a edgy quality.
• Knight – English occupational surname referring to a mounted warrior or someone who served a knight.
• Wolf – German surname derived from the animal, often given as a nickname to someone fierce or solitary.
• Blade – English occupational surname for a maker of blades or knives.
• Hawkins – English patronymic meaning “son of Hawk,” with “hawk” being a nickname for a person with hawk-like features or demeanor.
• Rider – English occupational surname for a mounted messenger or knight.
• Slaughter – English occupational surname for a slaughterer of animals or butcher, though the modern connotation gives it an intense sound.
• Sterling – Scottish geographical surname from the city of Stirling or referring to someone who made sterling (high-quality) silver.
• Blackwood – Scottish geographical surname for someone who lived near a dark forest.
• Frost – English nickname surname possibly given to someone with white hair or a cold personality.
• Powers – English variation of “poor house” or from Irish “de Paor” meaning “of the poor,” despite its powerful modern sound.
• Graves – English occupational surname for a steward or from a place name meaning “at the grove.”
• Sparks – English nickname for someone with a fiery temperament or a metonymic name for a blacksmith who created sparks.
• Phoenix – Rare English surname derived from a sign name (from a house or shop with a phoenix sign) or adopted in modern times.
• Gunner – Scandinavian occupational surname originally meaning “warrior” or someone who operated early gunpowder weapons.
• Wilder – English occupational surname for a huntsman or from Old English meaning someone who lived in the wild lands.
• Blaze – Uncommon American adaptation of European surnames like Blais or a modern creation based on the English word.
• Colt – English occupational surname for someone who trained young horses or had a youthful, spirited nature.

These surnames definitely bring some swagger! For more surnames with attitude, check out our guide to badass last names that command respect.

Uncommon American Last Names

While Smith and Johnson dominate, these less common surnames add wonderful diversity to America’s naming landscape:

• Abernathy – Scottish origin derived from a place name meaning “mouth of the river Nethy.” An uncommon but distinctive surname in America.
• Pendleton – English geographical surname meaning “town of Penda,” a personal name. Found in old American families but relatively uncommon.
• Whitehurst – English geographical surname meaning “white wooded hill.” An uncommon surname with a pleasing rhythm.
• Chatham – English geographical surname from places meaning “village of cottages.” Historic but uncommon in America.
• Boatwright – English occupational surname for a maker of boats. A distinctive American surname especially in coastal regions.
• Hargrove – English geographical surname meaning “hare grove” or grove frequented by hares. Uncommon but established American name.
• Kingsley – English geographical surname meaning “king’s meadow.” Has royal connotations but remains relatively rare.
• Prescott – English geographical surname meaning “priest’s cottage.” Historic but not frequently encountered.
• Summerville – English and Scottish geographical surname meaning “summer town.” Melodic but relatively uncommon.
• Thorndyke – English geographical surname meaning “thorn ditch.” Distinctive but rare in America.
• Wainwright – English occupational surname for a wagon maker. Classic craftsman surname that’s become increasingly uncommon.
• Covington – English geographical surname derived from places named after people. Historic but not widely distributed.
• Earnhardt – German origin meaning “strong resolve.” Made known by the racing family but still relatively uncommon.
• Kilpatrick – Scottish origin meaning “church of Patrick.” Distinctive but not frequently encountered.
• Lovelace – English origin meaning “lover of less.” An uncommon name with literary associations.
• Merriweather – English descriptive surname meaning “pleasant weather.” Charming but relatively rare.
• Nightingale – English nickname surname derived from the bird. Melodic but uncommon in America.
• Rutledge – English geographical surname meaning “ridge where rue grows.” Historic but relatively rare.
• Thornton – English geographical surname meaning “thorn settlement.” Classic but not commonly encountered.
• Whittaker – English geographical surname meaning “white field.” Traditional but increasingly uncommon.

Looking for more exceptional surnames? Check out our guide to long last names that stand out in a crowd.

Rare American Last Names

These rare surnames might make you do a double-take when you encounter them—they’re among the least common family names in America:

• Abberline – English origin, extremely rare. Known primarily through Frederick Abberline, a police inspector involved in the Jack the Ripper case.
• Bancroft – English geographical surname meaning “bean field.” Historic but now quite rare in America.
• Chilvester – English origin likely derived from a place name. Extremely uncommon in modern America.
• Dandridge – English origin possibly meaning “Daendred’s ridge.” Made known by actress Dorothy Dandridge but remains very rare.
• Eddleston – English geographical surname derived from a place meaning “Eadwulf’s farm.” Very uncommon in America.
• Farnsworth – English geographical surname meaning “fern enclosure.” Historical but now quite rare.
• Grimbledorf – Likely a variant of German surnames like Grimmeldorf. Extremely rare in America.
• Hallowell – English geographical surname meaning “holy spring.” Historic in Maine but rare nationwide.
• Isherwood – English geographical surname meaning “Ishere’s wood.” Literary connections but very uncommon.
• Jephcott – English origin derived from the name Geoffrey and “cot” meaning small house. Extremely rare in America.
• Knatchbull – English origin possibly from “knatch” (hill) and “bull.” Aristocratic English name that’s extremely rare in America.
• Loxdale – English geographical surname likely referring to a valley with locks. Very rare in the U.S.
• Mainprize – English from Old French meaning “taken with the hand” or bail/security. Extremely uncommon.
• Nithercott – English geographical surname meaning “lower cottage.” Very rare in modern America.
• Oscroft – English geographical surname meaning “ox croft.” Extremely uncommon in the U.S.
• Postlethwaite – English geographical surname meaning “clearing where thistles grow.” Distinctive but rare.
• Quarmby – English geographical surname from a place in Yorkshire. Very uncommon in America.
• Rumbold – English from Germanic elements meaning “famous counsel.” Historic but now rare.
• Satterthwaite – English geographical surname meaning “shieling (summer pasture) of the water meadow.” Rare despite its distinctive sound.
• Terwilliger – Dutch origin, likely derived from a place name. Uncommon despite being featured in The Simpsons.

These rare names might be hard to find in America. For more unusual surnames, explore our article on fantasy last names that sound like they came from another world.

Old American Last Names

These surnames have deep historical roots in American society, often dating back to colonial times and early settlement:

• Winthrop – English origin meaning “friendly village.” Prominent in early New England history through John Winthrop, first governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony.
• Bradford – English geographical surname meaning “broad ford.” William Bradford was a Mayflower passenger and Plymouth Colony governor.
• Standish – English geographical surname from places in Lancashire. Myles Standish was a military leader who came on the Mayflower.
• Alden – English origin meaning “old friend.” John Alden was a crew member on the Mayflower who decided to stay in Plymouth.
• Revere – French origin derived from “revere” or “riviere” meaning river. Paul Revere was a silversmith and patriot in the American Revolution.
• Hancock – English surname combining “han” (hand) and “cock” (rooster). John Hancock was first to sign the Declaration of Independence.
• Schuyler – Dutch origin meaning “scholar.” The Schuyler family was prominent in early New York state history.
• Cabot – English/Norman origin possibly meaning “sailor.” The Cabot family were prominent Boston merchants.
• Endicott – English geographical surname derived from a place in Gloucestershire. John Endicott was an early Massachusetts Bay Colony governor.
• Griscom – Likely derived from Welsh “Grismond.” The Griscom family was prominent in early Pennsylvania history.
• Stuyvesant – Dutch origin from a place name. Peter Stuyvesant was the last Dutch Director-General of New Netherland before it became New York.
• Mather – English occupational surname for a mower. The Mather family included prominent Puritan ministers in colonial New England.
• Worthington – English geographical surname meaning “estate associated with Wurð.” An old name in colonial America.
• Penn – Welsh meaning “head” or “chief.” William Penn founded Pennsylvania, making this surname historically significant.
• Putnam – English geographical surname from places in Hertfordshire. The Putnam family was prominent in early Massachusetts.
• Randolph – English from the Old Norse personal name “Randúlfr.” The Randolph family was prominent in Virginia’s early history.
• Saltonstall – English geographical surname meaning “willow tree valley.” An old New England family name.
• Eliot – English derived from the medieval name Elias. The Eliot family was prominent in early Massachusetts.
• Pinckney – English geographical surname derived from “Pinca’s island.” The Pinckney family was prominent in early South Carolina.
• Wadsworth – English geographical surname meaning “Wada’s enclosure.” An old family name in New England.

These names evoke America’s colonial past. For more names with historical significance, check out our article on medieval last names that have persisted through the centuries.

Popular Last Names in the U.S.

These surnames are currently trending or maintain consistent popularity across the United States:

• Smith – The perennial #1 surname in America, meaning “metal worker,” with over 2.4 million bearers spanning all ethnic groups and regions.
• Johnson – Consistently ranking #2, this patronymic meaning “son of John” is found across diverse American communities.
• Williams – Holding strong at #3, this Welsh patronymic is especially common among African Americans while remaining popular across all groups.
• Brown – Ranking #4, this descriptive surname referring to hair or complexion color maintains consistent popularity nationwide.
• Jones – The #5 surname in America, this Welsh patronymic shows particular strength in Appalachian regions.
• Garcia – Ranking #6 and rising, this Spanish surname reflects growing Hispanic demographics and remains concentrated in the Southwest and Florida.
• Miller – Holding at #7, this occupational surname maintains popularity particularly in Midwestern states.
• Davis – At #8, this Welsh patronymic maintains strong popularity especially in Southern states.
• Rodriguez – Ranking #9 and rising, this Spanish patronymic shows strong growth particularly in states with significant Hispanic populations.
• Martinez – Rounding out the top 10, this Spanish surname continues to grow in frequency nationwide.
• Hernandez – Just outside the top 10 at #11, this Spanish surname is among the fastest-growing in America.
• Lopez – Ranking #12, this Spanish surname derived from “wolf” shows particularly strong growth in California and Texas.
• Gonzalez – At #13, this Spanish patronymic remains especially common in the Southwest.
• Wilson – Ranking #14, this English patronymic maintains consistent popularity across diverse regions.
• Anderson – At #15, this Scandinavian and Scottish patronymic shows particular strength in the Upper Midwest.
• Thomas – Ranking #16, this surname derived from the Aramaic word for “twin” remains broadly popular nationwide.
• Taylor – Holding steady at #17, this occupational surname for a tailor maintains popularity across all regions.
• Moore – At #18, this geographical surname referring to someone who lived by a moor maintains consistent popularity.
• Jackson – Ranking #19, this English patronymic shows particular strength in Southern states.
• Martin – Rounding out the top 20, this surname derived from Mars, the Roman god of war, maintains popularity nationwide.

For a look at more specific cultural influences, check out our guides to French last names or Korean last names that are growing in frequency in America.

Famous People with American Last Names

These well-known individuals have helped make their surnames recognized across America and beyond:

• Smith – Will Smith, American actor and rapper who rose to fame in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” before becoming a leading Hollywood star.
• Johnson – Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, American actor and former professional wrestler who has become one of Hollywood’s highest-grossing stars.
• Williams – Serena Williams, American tennis champion widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time with 23 Grand Slam singles titles.
• Brown – James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul” whose influential music career helped shape American R&B, funk, and soul music.
• Jones – Tommy Lee Jones, Academy Award-winning American actor known for roles in “The Fugitive,” “Men in Black,” and “No Country for Old Men.”
• Garcia – Andy Garcia, Cuban-American actor known for his roles in “The Godfather Part III,” “Ocean’s Eleven,” and numerous other films.
• Miller – Reggie Miller, legendary NBA basketball player who spent his 18-year career with the Indiana Pacers and is known as one of the greatest shooters.
• Davis – Viola Davis, the first African American actress to achieve the “Triple Crown of Acting” with Oscar, Emmy, and Tony Award wins.
• Rodriguez – Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod), former MLB player who hit 696 home runs during his career with the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees.
• Martinez – Pedro Martinez, Hall of Fame baseball pitcher who won three Cy Young Awards and led the Boston Red Sox to a World Series championship.
• Hernandez – Anthony Hernandez, American mixed martial artist competing in the UFC’s middleweight division.
• Lopez – Jennifer Lopez, multi-talented performer known for her success in music, film, television, and business ventures.
• Gonzalez – Tony Gonzalez, former NFL tight end widely considered one of the greatest at his position, playing primarily for the Kansas City Chiefs.
• Wilson – Russell Wilson, NFL quarterback who led the Seattle Seahawks to their first Super Bowl victory and now plays for the Denver Broncos.
• Anderson – Wes Anderson, American filmmaker known for his distinctive visual and narrative style in films like “The Royal Tenenbaums” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel.”
• Thomas – Isaiah Thomas, NBA player who was a two-time NBA All-Star with the Boston Celtics.
• Taylor – Elizabeth Taylor, legendary Hollywood actress known for films like “Cleopatra” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
• Moore – Julianne Moore, Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in “Still Alice,” “The Hours,” and “Boogie Nights.”
• Jackson – Samuel L. Jackson, prolific actor who has appeared in over 150 films including “Pulp Fiction,” “The Avengers,” and “Star Wars.”
• Martin – Steve Martin, versatile comedian, actor, writer, and musician known for films like “The Jerk,” “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” and “Father of the Bride.”

These famous individuals have helped make their surnames household names! For more about naming traditions, check out our article on powerful last names that command attention.

Why Last Names Matter in American Culture

Last names aren’t just how we sign documents or get called at the doctor’s office. They’re living pieces of history that connect us to our ancestors and heritage. For many Americans, surnames represent a link to family stories of immigration, struggle, achievement, and identity.

In a country built by immigrants from around the world, our collection of surnames creates a rich tapestry that reflects our diverse origins. Whether your ancestors came on the Mayflower, through Ellis Island, or arrived just a generation ago, your surname carries part of that journey.

America’s surname landscape is incredibly diverse – with over 150,000 unique last names recorded in the U.S. Census. That’s a lot of family stories!

The Most Common American Last Names

Some surnames have become incredibly common in American society. Let’s look at the top 10 most frequent last names in the United States:

Rank	Surname	Approximate Number	Primary Origin
1	Smith	2.4 million	English/occupational
2	Johnson	1.9 million	English/patronymic
3	Williams	1.6 million	Welsh/patronymic
4	Brown	1.4 million	English/descriptive
5	Jones	1.4 million	Welsh/patronymic
6	Garcia	1.2 million	Spanish
7	Miller	1.2 million	English/occupational
8	Davis	1.1 million	Welsh/patronymic
9	Rodriguez	1.1 million	Spanish/patronymic
10	Martinez	1.1 million	Spanish/patronymic

Origins and Meanings of the Top Surnames

The most common American surnames tell us a lot about our country’s immigration history:

Smith tops the charts as our most common surname. Originally denoting a blacksmith or metalworker, this occupational surname spread widely across England before making its way to American shores with early English settlers.

Johnson means “son of John” – a classic patronymic name (derived from the father’s name). John was an extremely common first name throughout medieval Europe, which explains why variations of Johnson appear across many cultures.

Williams and Jones reflect the significant Welsh influence on American naming patterns. Both are patronymic, with Williams meaning “son of William” and Jones meaning “son of John” (the Welsh version).

Brown falls into the descriptive category – likely originally referring to someone with brown hair or complexion, or perhaps someone who wore brown clothing.

The appearance of Garcia, Rodriguez, and Martinez in the top 10 reflects the growing Hispanic population in the United States. These names have Spanish and Portuguese origins, with Rodriguez meaning “son of Rodrigo” and Martinez meaning “son of Martin.”

Regional Distribution of Common Last Names

American surnames aren’t evenly distributed across the country. They form fascinating patterns that reveal migration histories and settlement patterns:

• Smith dominates in most states, particularly across the South and Midwest
• Garcia is the most common surname in parts of Texas, New Mexico, and southern California
• Nguyen concentrates heavily in areas with large Vietnamese-American communities like Orange County, California
• Jones is particularly common in states with historical Welsh settlement like Pennsylvania
• Sullivan and Murphy appear more frequently in traditionally Irish-American neighborhoods in Boston and other northeastern cities

These patterns tell stories of immigration waves, cultural enclaves, and how different groups settled across America.

The History and Evolution of American Surnames

The story of American surnames begins long before there was a United States.

Colonial Roots and Early Immigration

The earliest American surnames came with English, Dutch, French, Spanish, and other European settlers in the colonial period. These names established patterns we still see today:

• English surnames like Smith, Brown, and Taylor dominated in the original 13 colonies
• Dutch surnames like Van Buren and Roosevelt took root in New York and the Hudson Valley
• French surnames like Beaumont and Lafayette became established in Louisiana and parts of the Northeast
• Spanish surnames like Chavez and Padilla have been present in the Southwest since before it was part of the United States

Influence of Major Immigration Waves

American surname patterns shifted dramatically with each major wave of immigration:

European Immigration (1840s-1920s) brought millions of Germans, Irish, Italians, Poles, Russians, and others, introducing surnames like Schmidt, O’Brien, Rossi, Kowalski, and Petrov to the American landscape.

Asian Immigration (especially post-1965) brought names like Kim, Patel, Nguyen, Zhang, and Suzuki, with these surnames now ranking among the fastest-growing in America.

Hispanic Immigration has significantly shaped modern American surname patterns, with names like Garcia, Rodriguez, and Lopez now among the most common surnames nationwide.

African American Surnames often reflect complex histories. Many adopted the surnames of former enslavers after emancipation, while others chose new names that represented freedom and identity.

How Surnames Changed at Ellis Island and Beyond

You’ve probably heard stories about names being changed at Ellis Island, and while the reality is more complicated than the myths suggest, American surnames have certainly evolved.

Immigration officials didn’t typically change names arbitrarily, but many immigrants did change their names through:

• Anglicization – voluntarily adapting names to sound more English (Müller → Miller)
• Simplification – shortening complex names (Wojciechowski → Wojack)
• Translation – converting the meaning (Schwarzkopf → Blackhead)
• Phonetic spelling – writing names as they sounded to English-speaking ears

These changes were often made voluntarily as immigrants sought to assimilate into American society or because English speakers struggled with the original pronunciations.

Surname Origins: Types and Meanings

Most surnames, regardless of culture, fall into a few main categories. Understanding these can help you decode the possible origins of your own family name.

Patronymic and Matronymic Surnames

Patronymic surnames (derived from the father’s name) and the less common matronymic surnames (from the mother’s name) are found across many cultures:

• Johnson: literally “son of John”
• Williams: “son of William”
• MacDonald: “son of Donald” (Scottish)
• O’Brien: “descendant of Brien” (Irish)
• Ivanov: “son of Ivan” (Russian)
• Johansson: “son of Johan” (Swedish)

These naming patterns were so common that they account for many of our most frequent surnames today.

Occupational Surnames

Many surnames originated from the jobs our ancestors performed:

• Smith: blacksmith or metalworker
• Miller: operated a grain mill
• Taylor: tailor
• Baker: baker
• Cooper: barrel maker
• Fletcher: arrow maker
• Wright: craftsman or builder

Looking for a window into your family’s past? An occupational team name in your family tree might reveal what your ancestors did for work centuries ago.

Locational Surnames

Geography-based surnames might indicate where your ancestors lived:

• Hill, Woods, Rivers: based on natural features
• London, York, Lincoln: based on towns or cities
• French, English, Ireland: based on countries or regions
• Atwood: “at the wood”
• Underhill: “beneath the hill”

These names often pointed to distinguishing features of where someone lived or originated from.

Descriptive and Nickname Surnames

Physical characteristics, personality traits, or nicknames often became hereditary surnames:

• Brown, White, Black: based on complexion or hair color
• Short, Long, Little: based on physical stature
• Young, Elder: based on relative age
• Strong, Swift: based on personal qualities
• Fox, Wolf: based on perceived similarity to animals

These descriptive names give us fascinating glimpses into how our ancestors were perceived by their communities.

Diversity and Demographics of U.S. Surnames

The U.S. Census Bureau has recorded over 150,000 unique surnames in America – a testament to our incredible diversity. Even more fascinating is how these names cluster around different ethnic communities.

Surname Patterns by Ethnic Group

Different ethnic groups in America show distinct surname patterns:

White Americans commonly have surnames of English, German, Irish, Italian, and other European origins. Smith, Johnson, and Miller are among the most common.

African Americans often share surnames common among white Americans, reflecting complex historical factors including slavery. Williams, Johnson, and Jones are particularly common, though the distribution patterns differ from those in white communities.

Asian Americans typically maintain surnames from their countries of origin. Nguyen (Vietnamese), Kim (Korean), Zhang and Li (Chinese), Patel (Indian), and Suzuki (Japanese) are among the most common.

Hispanic Americans frequently have surnames of Spanish origin. Garcia, Rodriguez, Martinez, Hernandez, and Lopez rank among the most common and fastest-growing surnames in America.

Fastest-Growing Surnames and What They Reveal

The fastest-growing surnames in America tell a powerful story about changing immigration patterns:

• Zhang, Li, Nguyen, Patel, and Singh rank among the fastest-growing surnames, reflecting increased Asian immigration.
• Garcia, Rodriguez, Gonzalez, and other Hispanic surnames continue to grow rapidly, showing the impact of immigration from Latin America.

These trends reflect not just immigration but also higher birth rates in some communities, creating a constantly evolving surname landscape in America.

Mapping American Surnames

Ever wondered where people with your surname tend to live? Surname mapping reveals fascinating patterns of migration, settlement, and cultural clustering.

Interactive Maps and Regional Hotspots

Modern technology allows us to visualize surname distribution across America. These maps often reveal surprising patterns:

• Polish surnames like Kowalski cluster in Great Lakes cities like Chicago and Milwaukee
• Italian surnames like Rossi show concentrations in New York, New Jersey, and other northeastern areas
• Norwegian surnames like Larsen appear frequently in Minnesota and the Dakotas
• Vietnamese surnames like Nguyen have notable concentrations in California and Texas
• French surnames like Thibodeaux remain concentrated in Louisiana

These maps reveal how immigration patterns and cultural communities shaped American settlement.

How Surname Mapping Works and What It Shows

Surname mapping typically uses census data to identify where particular surnames appear most frequently. The resulting maps can reveal:

• Historical migration routes as families moved across the country
• Chain migration patterns where immigrants settled near others from their homeland
• Ethnic enclaves that have persisted for generations
• Regional identity patterns in names unique to certain parts of America

These maps provide visual evidence of how America’s diverse communities have shaped the nation’s demographic landscape.

Surname Clusters and Migration Patterns

Looking for communities with lots of Italian last names? You might want to explore parts of New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, where Italian surnames cluster due to historical immigration patterns.

Similarly, Irish last names show strong concentrations in Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia – reflecting the major destinations for Irish immigrants in the 19th century.

These clusters aren’t just statistical curiosities – they reflect real communities where cultural traditions, foods, dialects, and practices were preserved across generations.

The Changing Landscape: Trends in Modern Surnames

American surnames aren’t static – they continue to evolve with each generation and new wave of immigration.

The Rise of Asian and Hispanic Surnames in the U.S.

The most dramatic change in America’s surname landscape over the past 50 years has been the rapid growth of Asian and Hispanic surnames:

• Garcia has moved into the top 10 most common surnames
• Rodriguez, Martinez, and Hernandez are now more common than many historically dominant surnames
• Nguyen is now more common in America than many European surnames that have been present for centuries
• Patel, Kim, Li, and Zhang are among the fastest-growing surnames

This shift reflects both immigration patterns and higher birth rates in some communities.

The Impact of Recent Immigration

Recent immigration continues to reshape America’s surname landscape:

• African surnames like Ademola, Mensah, and Okafor are increasing with immigration from Nigeria, Ghana, and other African nations
• Middle Eastern surnames like Mohammed, Ali, and Ahmed are growing more common
• Central American surnames are diversifying the Hispanic surname pool

Each new wave of immigration adds to America’s rich tapestry of family names.

Surnames and Social Mobility

Interestingly, researchers have found correlations between certain surnames and social mobility. Some studies suggest that rare surnames often appear disproportionately in elite universities and professions, potentially reflecting inherited advantages or cultural emphases on education.

Other research shows how certain immigrant surnames follow predictable patterns of assimilation and economic advancement over generations, offering insights into the American dream in action.

Fun Facts and Surprising Data

The world of American surnames is full of fascinating trivia and unexpected connections:

• Smith is so common that approximately 2.4 million Americans share this surname – enough to populate a major city!
• Nearly 30% of Americans have a surname that appears in the top 100 list, showing remarkable concentration despite our diversity.
• Brown holds a unique distinction as a top surname in both the United States (where it ranks 4th) and Jamaica (where it’s the most common surname).
• The most common surname in the world is believed to be Wang, with over 100 million people sharing this Chinese surname – more than the total population of most countries.
• The Kim family in Korea is so large that special match-making services exist to help Kims find partners who aren’t related to them!
• McDonald might make you think of golden arches, but this surname actually means “son of Donald” from the Gaelic name Domhnall, meaning “world ruler.”

How to Research Your Own Last Name

Curious about your own surname’s story? Here are some ways to dig deeper:

Tools and Resources for Surname Research

Several excellent resources can help you trace your surname’s origins:

• Surname databases like Forebears.io and Behind the Name offer etymological information
• Surname distribution maps show where your name appears most frequently
• Historical dictionaries of surnames provide detailed origins for many family names
• Family history forums connect you with others researching the same surname

Many genealogy enthusiasts spend years piecing together the rich stories behind their family names.

Using Census and Genealogy Databases

Census records offer powerful windows into your surname’s history:

• U.S. Census records (available from 1790 forward) track where people with your surname lived
• Immigration and naturalization records may show when your family arrived
• City directories and voter records provide additional historical context
• Birth, marriage, and death certificates often offer clues about name changes and variations

Sites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage provide access to many of these records.

DNA and Family History Projects

DNA testing has revolutionized surname research:

• Y-DNA testing can connect men with the same surname who share a common ancestor
• Surname DNA projects bring together people with the same or similar surnames to find connections
• Autosomal DNA testing can help you find living relatives who share your surname
• Genetic genealogy combines traditional records with DNA evidence

These tools have helped many Americans discover unexpected connections and uncover forgotten family stories.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Last Names

Why are some surnames so common?

Some surnames became common due to:

• Widespread first names that spawned patronymics (like John → Johnson)
• Common occupations that became surnames (Smith, Miller, Taylor)
• Immigration waves that brought large numbers of people with the same surnames
• High birth rates in certain communities over generations

How often do surnames change in the U.S.?

While most surnames remain stable across generations:

• Women often change surnames through marriage
• Legal name changes are relatively common and simple in the U.S.
• Spelling standardization affected many surnames in the early 20th century
• Simplification of complex foreign surnames continues today

What are the rarest American surnames?

Truly rare surnames in America include:

• Unique coinages created by individuals
• Surnames from small ethnic groups with limited immigration to the U.S.
• Names that were changed due to unique circumstances
• Compound surnames that combined two family names

Some surnames in America are held by only a single family!

The Ongoing Story of American Surnames

American surnames continue to evolve as our nation does. They reveal our diverse origins, track immigration patterns, and tell countless family stories.

From the Smiths who hammered metal in medieval England to the Nguyens who fled Vietnam in the 1970s, from the Rodriguezes who crossed borders for new opportunities to the Kowalskis who labored in industrial cities, our surnames connect us to these journeys.

The next time you introduce yourself or sign your name, remember – you’re carrying forward a piece of history that connects you to generations past and those yet to come.

As America continues to welcome new immigrants and create new families, our surname landscape will keep evolving, adding new chapters to this remarkable story. That changing tapestry of names reflects who we are as a nation – diverse, dynamic, and built on the stories of people from everywhere who came here seeking better lives.

What stories does your surname tell? The answer might be more fascinating than you imagine.

Looking to explore more about names? Check out our guides to Greek last names or French last names for deep dives into specific naming traditions.