AHEAD: Over 350 southern names for girls… and which could go viral this year.

If you’re looking for beautiful southern girl names, you’re in the right place!

Below you’ll find hundreds of feminine names separated into 17 distinct categories.

With this huge list in mind, here’s a tip:

The Table of Contents is your friend.

Let’s dive in!

Related: Southern Boy Names

Southern names trending in 2025

These southern girl names are climbing the charts right now, each making notable gains since last year.

Adeline

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: #71 (↑21)

Aurelia 🔥

• Name meaning: Golden one.
• Popularity: #371 (↑117)

Birdie 🔥

• Name meaning: Little bird.
• Popularity: #701 (↑100)

Emory

• Name meaning: Brave or industrious ruler. A university in Atlanta, GA.
• Popularity: Emory #366 (↑102), Emery #70 (↑12), and Emerie #557 (↑32)

Evie

• Name meaning: Life. A diminutive for Evangeline or Eva.
• Popularity: #265 (↑10)

Lainey 🔥

• Name meaning: Bright or shining light.
• Popularity: #54 (↑120)

Lottie

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: #775 (↑175)

Mabel 🔥

• Name meaning: Lovable.
• Popularity: #278 (↑32)

Nellie

• Name meaning: Bright light or shining one.
• Popularity: #611 (↑53)

Rosie

• Name meaning: Flower. Common diminutive for Rose or Rosannah.
• Popularity: #392 (↑32)

Seraphina

• Name meaning: Fiery ones or burning ones.
• Popularity: #974 (↑65)

Sutton

• Name meaning: Southern settlement.
• Popularity: #205 (↑11)

More on 2025 viral predictions in just a bit.

Sweet southern girl names

These southern belle names have an undeniably southern ring.

Abigail

• Name meaning: My father’s joy.
• Popularity: #31

Related: Middle Names for Abigail

Addilyn

• Name meaning: Nobility.
• Popularity: This 3-syllable name isn’t ranking.

Annabelle

• Name meaning: Loveable or graceful beauty.
• Popularity: #341

Caroline

• Name meaning: Free woman or strong.
• Popularity: #83

Clementine

• Name meaning: Mild and merciful, or citrus fruit.
• Popularity: #543

Grace

• Name meaning: Goodness.
• Popularity: #38

Gracelyn

• Name meaning: Graceful.
• Popularity: #487

Magnolia

• Name meaning: An iconic Southern tree. Mississippi and Louisiana’s state flower.
• Popularity: #145

Mercy

• Name meaning: Compassion.
• Popularity: #833

Palmer

• Name meaning: She who holds the palm.
• Popularity: #277

Scarlett

• Name meaning: Red. A character in Gone with the Wind.
• Popularity: #17

Common old southern girl names

Before the Civil War, these classic names were widely used among all social classes in the Antebellum South.

Agnes

• Name meaning: Pure.
• Popularity: This vintage name isn’t ranking.

Alice

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: #65

Amelia or Emilia

• Name meaning: Work.
• Popularity: Amelia ranks #4 and Emilia ranks #42.

Related: Middle Names for Amelia

Anna or Anne

• Name meaning: Grace.
• Popularity: Anna ranks #79 and Anne ranks #581.

Arabella

• Name meaning: Yielding to prayer.
• Popularity: #227

Claire

• Name meaning: Clear or bright.
• Popularity: #67

Clara

• Name meaning: Clear or bright.
• Popularity: #99

Delia

• Name meaning: Born on the island of Delos.
• Popularity: This Greek name isn’t ranking.

Eliza

• Name meaning: Pledged to God.
• Popularity: #116

Elizabeth

• Name meaning: Oath.
• Popularity: #15

Eleanor

• Name meaning: Shining one.
• Popularity: #14

Emily

• Name meaning: Rival or to excel.
• Popularity: Emily ranks #18 and Emely is #423.

Emmeline

• Name meaning: Hard-working.
• Popularity: #948

Emma

• Name meaning: Whole.
• Popularity: #2

Related: Middle Names for Emma

Eva

• Name meaning: Life.
• Popularity: #112

Frances

• Name meaning: Free one.
• Popularity: #405

Genevieve

• Name meaning: Tribal woman.
• Popularity: #166

Hannah

• Name meaning: Grace.
• Popularity: #48

Related: Middle Names for Hannah

Harriet

• Name meaning: Home ruler.
• Popularity: This Victorian name isn’t ranking.

Henrietta

• Name meaning: Estate ruler.
• Popularity: This 4-syllable name isn’t ranking.

Katherine or Catherine

• Name meaning: Pure.
• Popularity: Katherine ranks #168 and Catherine ranks #332.

Lucy

• Name meaning: Light.
• Popularity: #40

Related: Middle Names for Lucy

Lydia

• Name meaning: Beautiful one.
• Popularity: #97

Margaret

• Name meaning: Pearl.
• Popularity: Margaret ranks #132 and Maggie ranks #318.

Marie

• Name meaning: Star of the sea.
• Popularity: #649

Jane

• Name meaning: God is gracious.
• Popularity: #281

Josephine

• Name meaning: Jehovah increases.
• Popularity: #64

Julia

• Name meaning: Youthful.
• Popularity: #122

Ruth

• Name meaning: Companion.
• Popularity: #187

Sophia or Sophie

• Name meaning: Wisdom.
• Popularity: Sophia ranks #5, Sofia ranks #12, and Sophie ranks #60.

Aristocratic old southern names

These elegant names were typically associated with the planter class and high society in the South, often with French, English aristocratic, or classical influences.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to cute southern names

Adelaide

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: #284

Aurora

• Name meaning: Dawn.
• Popularity: #22

Related: Middle Names for Aurora

Cassandra

• Name meaning: Shining person.
• Popularity: #639

Cecilia or Cecelia

• Name meaning: Blind. Saint Cecilia was the patron saint of musicians.
• Popularity: Cecilia ranks #137 and Cecelia ranks #497.

Constance

• Name meaning: Steadfastness.
• Popularity: This 2-syllable name isn’t ranking.

Cordelia

• Name meaning: Heart or daughter of the sea.
• Popularity: This Celtic name isn’t ranking.

Cornelia

• Name meaning: Horn.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Eugenia

• Name meaning: Well-born or noble.
• Popularity: This E name isn’t ranking.

Evangeline

• Name meaning: Bearer of good news.
• Popularity: #212

Evelyn

• Name meaning: Wished for child.
• Popularity: Evelyn ranks #9 and Evelynn ranks #320.

Georgiana

• Name meaning: Farmer.
• Popularity: This G name isn’t ranking.

Isabella

• Name meaning: Promise.
• Popularity: #7

Isadora

• Name meaning: Gift of Isis.
• Popularity: This name ending in a isn’t ranking.

Lillian

• Name meaning: Lily flower.
• Popularity: Lillian ranks #55 and Lily ranks #20.

Louisa

• Name meaning: Famous warrior.
• Popularity: #809

Melanie

• Name meaning: Dark.
• Popularity: #130

Octavia

• Name meaning: Eighth.
• Popularity: #279

Ophelia

• Name meaning: Aid or help.
• Popularity: #267

Theodora

• Name meaning: Gift of God.
• Popularity: #772

Victoria

• Name meaning: Winner.
• Popularity: #45

Wilhelmina

• Name meaning: Resolute protection.
• Popularity: This long name isn’t ranking.

Cute old southern names

Here are some adorable Antebellum-era nicknames or shortened forms commonly used as given names in their own right.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to place-inspired names

Belle

• Name meaning: Beautiful. Nickname for Isabelle, Annabelle, or Arabella.
• Popularity: This one-syllable name isn’t ranking.

Cora

• Name meaning: Maiden. Nickname for Coralie or Coraline.
• Popularity: #93

Daisy

• Name meaning: Flower. Nickname for Margaret.
• Popularity: #110

Dottie

• Name meaning: Gift of God. Nickname for Dorothy.
• Popularity: This D name isn’t ranking.

Effie

• Name meaning: Well-spoken. Nickname for Euphemia.
• Popularity: This 5-letter name isn’t ranking.

Ella

• Name meaning: Fairy maiden. Nickname for Eleanor or Ellen.
• Popularity: #32

Related: Middle Names for Ella

Ellie

• Name meaning: Shining one. Nickname for Eleanor, Ellen, or Elizabeth.
• Popularity: #27

Related: Middle Names for Ellie

Elsie

• Name meaning: Pledged to God. Nickname for Elizabeth.
• Popularity: #163

Emmy or Emmie

• Name meaning: Whole or universal. Nickname for Emily or Emma.
• Popularity: Emmy ranks #504 and Emmie isn’t ranking.

Etta

• Name meaning: Little one. Nickname for Henrietta or Loretta.
• Popularity: #438

Gracie

• Name meaning: Graceful. Nickname for Grace.
• Popularity: #249

Hattie

• Name meaning: Home ruler. Nickname for Harriet.
• Popularity: #383

Janie

• Name meaning: Noble or gracious. Nickname for Jane.
• Popularity: This J name isn’t ranking.

Josie

• Name meaning: God will add. Nickname for Josephine.
• Popularity: #108

Lily

• Name meaning: Pure, passion. Nickname for Lillian or Elizabeth.
• Popularity: #20

Mae or May

• Name meaning: Bitter or pearl. The 5th month. Nickname for Mary or Margaret.
• Popularity: Mae ranks #506 and May isn’t ranking.

Maggie

• Name meaning: Pearl. Nickname for Margaret.
• Popularity: #318

Millie

• Name meaning: Strong worker. Nickname for Millicent, Camilla, or Amelia.
• Popularity: #102

Minnie

• Name meaning: Memory or remembrance. Nickname for Minerva or Wilhelmina.
• Popularity: This M name isn’t ranking.

Molly

• Name meaning: Rebellious. Nickname for Mary.
• Popularity: #208

Nora

• Name meaning: Light. Nickname for Eleanor or Honora.
• Popularity: #25

Penny

• Name meaning: Weaver. Nickname for Penelope.
• Popularity: #676

Sadie

• Name meaning: Princess. Nickname for Sarah.
• Popularity: #59

Sally

• Name meaning: Princess. Nickname for Sarah.
• Popularity: This S name isn’t ranking.

Geographical southern girl names

These southern belle names are inspired by places in the South.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to musical southern names

Augusta

• Name meaning: Magnificent. A city in Georgia near the South Carolina border.
• Popularity: This city-inspired name isn’t ranking.

Carolina

• Name meaning: Free woman. Inspired by North and South Carolina, of course.
• Popularity: #424

Charlotte

• Name meaning: Free woman. The most populous city in North Carolina.
• Popularity: #3

Dallas

• Name meaning: Skilled. A city in North Texas.
• Popularity: This modern name ranks #213 for girls and #252 for boys.

Georgia

• Name meaning: Farmer. Perfect for your little peach!
• Popularity: #128

Marietta

• Name meaning: Drop of the sea. Beloved. One of the largest suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.
• Popularity: This M name isn’t ranking.

Savannah

• Name meaning: Treeless plain. The oldest city in the state of Georgia.
• Popularity: #92

Shelby

• Name meaning: Willow estate. The names of several towns and counties in the South in states such as Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri.
• Popularity: This 6-letter name isn’t ranking.

Virginia

• Name meaning: Pure. A state below the Mason-Dixon line.
• Popularity: #560

Musical southern girl names

These southern girl names are inspired by music and country music artists.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to southern names ending in ‘ley’

Alaina or Alayna

• Name meaning: Cheerful; precious. Inspired by country music singer Lauren Alaina.
• Popularity: Alaina ranks #218 and Alayna ranks #315.

Blake

• Name meaning: Bright and shining. Inspired by Blake Shelton.
• Popularity: This B name ranks #221 for girls and #255 for boys.

Cadence

• Name meaning: Rhythm or flow.
• Popularity: #951

Carrie

• Name meaning: Free woman. Inspired by Carrie Underwood.
• Popularity: This German name isn’t ranking.

Chesney

• Name meaning: Oak grove. Inspired by Kenny Chesney.
• Popularity: This southern name isn’t ranking.

Gretchen

• Name meaning: Pearl. Inspired by Gretchen Wilson.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Harper

• Name meaning: Harp player.
• Popularity: #11

Jolene

• Name meaning: Lord. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s song of this name.
• Popularity: #548

June

• Name meaning: Sixth month. Inspired by June Carter Cash.
• Popularity: #171

Kasey or Kacie

• Name meaning: Vigilant or watchful. Inspired by country singer Kacey Musgraves.
• Popularity: Neither spelling of this K name is ranked.

Leann or Leanne

• Name meaning: Graceful wood. Inspired by Leann Rimes.
• Popularity: Neither spelling of this name meaning graceful is ranked.

Loretta

• Name meaning: Graceful wood. Inspired by Loretta Lynn.
• Popularity: #764

Lyric

• Name meaning: Words set to music.
• Popularity: #481

Maren

• Name meaning: Star of the sea. Inspired by Maren Morris.
• Popularity: #544

Melody

• Name meaning: Song.
• Popularity: #103

Miranda

• Name meaning: Worthy of admiration. Inspired by Miranda Lambert.
• Popularity: #576

Paisley

• Name meaning: A cute curved pattern. Inspired by Brad Paisley.
• Popularity: #56

Related: Middle Names for Paisley

Presley

• Name meaning: Priest. Inspired by Elvis!
• Popularity: #197

Raelynn or Raelyn

• Name meaning: Invented name. (Female sheep + lake). Inspired by country singer RaeLynn.
• Popularity: Raelynn ranks #111 and Raelyn ranks #395.

Reba

• Name meaning: One who joins. Inspired by Reba McEntire.
• Popularity: This 4-letter name isn’t ranking.

Sierra

• Name meaning: Mountain range. Inspired by singer-songwriter Sierra Ferrell.
• Popularity: #566

Taylor

• Name meaning: Clothing tailor. Inspired by Taylor Swift.
• Popularity: This T name ranks #261 for girls and #591 for boys.

Tenille

• Name meaning: Champion or passionate. Inspired by country music singer Tenille Arts.
• Popularity: This southern name isn’t ranking.

Wynonna or Winona

• Name meaning: Firstborn daughter. Inspired by Wynonna Judd.
• Popularity: Winona ranks #882 and Wynonna isn’t ranking.

Southern girl names ending in “ley”

Here are some lovely names ending in y (or the ‘ee’ sound) for your southern belle.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to gender-neutral southern names

Ainsley or Ansley

• Name meaning: Solitary meadow. Hermitage field.
• Popularity: Neither of these southern girl names is ranked.

Bailey

• Name meaning: Law enforcer.
• Popularity: #172

Bexley

• Name meaning: Box tree clearing.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Blakely

• Name meaning: Dark wood.
• Popularity: #155

Braylee

• Name meaning: Invented name.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Brinkley

• Name meaning: Woodland clearing.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Brinley or Brynlee

• Name meaning: Burnt meadow.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Brylee

• Name meaning: Invented name. Briley Parkway is a major highway in Nashville.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Emberly

• Name meaning: Spark.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Ensley

• Name meaning: Her own meadow.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Everly or Everleigh

• Name meaning: Brave.
• Popularity: Everly ranks #69 and Everleigh ranks #149.

Hadley

• Name meaning: Heather clearing.
• Popularity: #119

Related: Middle Names for Hadley

Hailey or Haley or Hayley

• Name meaning: Hay meadow.
• Popularity: Hailey ranks #90, and Haley and Hayley aren’t ranking.

Related: Middle Names for Hailey

Harley

• Name meaning: Hare meadow.
• Popularity: This edgy name ranks #346 for girls and #697 for boys.

Hartley

• Name meaning: Deer meadow.
• Popularity: This H name isn’t ranking.

Kaylee or Kayleigh

• Name meaning: Slim and fair.
• Popularity: Kaylee ranks #180 and Kayleigh ranks #631.

Kinsley or Kinley or Kensley

• Name meaning: King’s meadow.
• Popularity: Kinsley ranks #68. Kinley and Kensley aren’t ranking.

Marley

• Name meaning: Pleasant wood.
• Popularity: #283

Oakley

• Name meaning: Meadow of oak trees.
• Popularity: This O name ranks #153 for girls and #396 for boys.

Rayleigh

• Name meaning: Scattering of light.
• Popularity: This R name isn’t ranking.

Riley or Rylee or Ryleigh

• Name meaning: Wood clearing.
• Popularity: Riley ranks #43 for girls and #224 for boys, Rylee ranks #117, and Ryleigh ranks #260.

Tinsley

• Name meaning: Tynni’s meadow.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Gender-neutral southern names

These unisex southern names would work for a little girl or boy!

👉🏼 or jump ahead to rustic nature-themed names

Avery

• Name meaning: Elf king.
• Popularity: This A name ranks #29 for girls and #241 for boys.

Related: Middle Names for Avery

Bellamy

• Name meaning: Beautiful friend.
• Popularity: This southern name ranks #828 for girls and #749 for boys.

Camryn or Kamryn or Cameron

• Name meaning: Crooked nose.
• Popularity: For girls, Camryn ranks #494, Kamryn ranks #511, and Cameron ranks #480. For boys, Cameron ranks #58.

Charlie or Charlee or Charli

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: For girls, Charlie ranks #125, Charlee ranks #358, and Charli ranks #435. For boys, Charlie ranks #175 and Charles is #54.

Colby

• Name meaning: From the coal village.
• Popularity: This sweet southern name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #604 for boys.

Collins 🔥

• Name meaning: Victory of the people.
• Popularity: This name ranks #237 for girls. Colin (singular with one l) ranks #334 for boys.

Dakota

• Name meaning: Friend or ally.
• Popularity: This cute hippie name ranks #262 for girls and #329 for boys.

Dalton

• Name meaning: Valley settlement.
• Popularity: This southern name isn’t ranking for girls and ranks #513 for boys.

Eastyn

• Name meaning: From the eastern town.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking for girls. Easton ranks #96 for boys.

Elliott or Elliot

• Name meaning: The Lord is my God.
• Popularity: For girls, Elliott ranks #667 and Elliot ranks #898. For boys, Elliott ranks #167 and Elliot ranks #178.

Ellis

• Name meaning: Benevolent.
• Popularity: This name ranks #587 for girls and #273 for boys.

Emerson or Emersyn

• Name meaning: Emery’s daughter.
• Popularity: For girls, Emerson ranks #161 and Emersyn ranks #146. For boys, Emerson ranks #268.

Karsyn

• Name meaning: Child of marsh-dwellers.
• Popularity: Karsyn ranks #680 for girls and Carson ranks #111 for boys.

Kennedy

• Name meaning: Helmeted chief.
• Popularity: This presidential southern name ranks #72 for girls and isn’t ranking for boys.

Korbyn

• Name meaning: Raven or little crow.
• Popularity: This unique southern baby name isn’t ranking for either gender.

Landen

• Name meaning: Territory.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #810 for boys.

Lane or Layne

• Name meaning: Pathway.
• Popularity: Layne ranks #968 for girls. For boys, Lane ranks #254 and Layne is #649.

Leighton

• Name meaning: Meadow town.
• Popularity: This southern name ranks #357 for girls and #965 for boys.

Lennon

• Name meaning: Lover, blackbird, cloak.
• Popularity: This name ranks #243 for girls and #754 for boys.

Mercer

• Name meaning: Merchant of fine fabrics.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking for girls or boys.

Peyton

• Name meaning: Fighter’s estate.
• Popularity: This southern name ranks #142 for girls and #605 for boys.

Reagan or Raegan

• Name meaning: Little king.
• Popularity: For girls, Reagan ranks #168 and Raegan ranks #418. This name isn’t ranking for boys.

Reese

• Name meaning: Fiery.
• Popularity: This one-syllable name ranks #174 for girls and #630 for boys.

Related: Middle Names for Reese

Rowan

• Name meaning: Reddish brown tree.
• Popularity: This name ranks #233 for girls and #76 for boys.

Ryan or Ryann

• Name meaning: Little king.
• Popularity: For girls, Ryan ranks #677 and Ryann isn’t ranking. For boys, Ryan ranks #83.

Ryder

• Name meaning: Horsewoman.
• Popularity: This badass name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #129 for boys.

Rylan

• Name meaning: Island meadow.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking for girls and ranks #376 for boys.

Shiloh 🔥

• Name meaning: Tranquil.
• Popularity: This name ranks #286 for girls and #388 for boys.

Teagan

• Name meaning: Little poet.
• Popularity: This southern name ranks #308 for girls and isn’t ranked for boys.

Whitney

• Name meaning: White island.
• Popularity: #981

Rustic nature-inspired southern names

These nature-inspired girls’ names capture the rustic beauty of the South.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to unique southern names

Arden

• Name meaning: Great forest.
• Popularity: This tree-themed name isn’t ranking.

Autumn

• Name meaning: A season that showcases distinctive Southern foliage.
• Popularity: #75

Azalea

• Name meaning: A flowering shrub abundant in Southern gardens.
• Popularity: #367

Camellia

• Name meaning: Alabama’s state flower.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Dahlia

• Name meaning: A flowering plant that thrives in Southern gardens.
• Popularity: #253

Hazel

• Name meaning: Of the Hazelnut tree.
• Popularity: #19

Iris

• Name meaning: Tennessee’s state flower.
• Popularity: #78

Ivy

• Name meaning: A climbing vine that adorns many Southern homes.
• Popularity: #38

Related: 70 Surprisingly Underrated 3-Letter Girl Names

Jessamine

• Name meaning: Yellow jessamine is South Carolina’s state flower (derived from jasmine).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Juniper

• Name meaning: Evergreen shrubs and trees that are common in Southern landscapes.
• Popularity: #113

Marigold

• Name meaning: A golden flower that decorates Southern garden borders.
• Popularity: #145

Meadow 🔥

• Name meaning: An open field of wildflowers common in rural Southern landscapes.
• Popularity: #352

Olive

• Name meaning: A tree with deep historical significance in coastal Southern regions.
• Popularity: #181

Poppy 🔥

• Name meaning: A bright wildflower that dots the southern countryside.
• Popularity: #289

Raven

• Name meaning: A blackbird prominent in Southern folklore and Appalachian mountain storytelling traditions.
• Popularity: #361

Reva

• Name meaning: Rain.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

River

• Name meaning: Stream of water.
• Popularity: This water-themed name ranks #193 for girls and #116 for boys.

Sage

• Name meaning: A grayish-green herb found in Southern cooking and gardens.
• Popularity: This name ranks #143 for girls and #422 for boys.

Summer

• Name meaning: A season perfect for porch-sitting and drinking sweet tea.
• Popularity: #141

Terra

• Name meaning: Earth, connecting to the South’s agricultural heritage.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Violet

• Name meaning: A delicate purple flower common in Southern gardens.
• Popularity: #16

Related: Middle Names for Violet

Willow

• Name meaning: A graceful tree found near Southern waterways.
• Popularity: #41

Wisteria

• Name meaning: A cascading purple vine seen climbing Southern porches. Pretty middle name!
• Popularity: This W name isn’t ranking.

Unique southern girl names

Consider one of these unique southern girl names if you’re looking for something a little different!

👉🏼 or jump ahead to more Antebellum names

Adelia

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Annalyse or Annalise

• Name meaning: Beauty, elegance, graced by God.
• Popularity: This southern name isn’t ranking.

Amma

• Name meaning: Mother.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Braylin

• Name meaning: Invented name.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Bria

• Name meaning: Hill or noble.
• Popularity: #910

Bristol

• Name meaning: Place by the bridge.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Dalary

• Name meaning: Of the air.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Dixie

• Name meaning: Dixie Land is a nickname for the southern U.S.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Embry

• Name meaning: Flat-topped hill.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Haven

• Name meaning: Safe place.
• Popularity: #219

Indigo

• Name meaning: Blue or Indian dye.
• Popularity: #964

Jaylin

• Name meaning: Invented name.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Jovie

• Name meaning: Joyful.
• Popularity: #588

Tawney

• Name meaning: Golden-brown.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Less-common Antebellum names

These names existed in the South before the Civil War, but weren’t frequently used.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to pretty modern names

Ada

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: #177

Agatha

• Name meaning: Good woman.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Annabella

• Name meaning: Graceful + beautiful.
• Popularity: This name meaning beautiful isn’t ranking.

Audrey

• Name meaning: Noble strength.
• Popularity: #74

Ava

• Name meaning: Life.
• Popularity: #8

Bethany

• Name meaning: House of figs.
• Popularity: #719

Cecilia 🔥

• Name meaning: Blind.
• Popularity: #137

Celeste

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: #275

Corinne

• Name meaning: Girl or maiden.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Delilah

• Name meaning: Delicate.
• Popularity: #52

Elena

• Name meaning: Shining light.
• Popularity: Elena ranks #47 and Elaina is #272.

Elodie

• Name meaning: Marsh flower.
• Popularity: #738

Eloise

• Name meaning: Healthy.
• Popularity: #80

Florence 🔥

• Name meaning: Flourishing or prosperous.
• Popularity: #521

Leah

• Name meaning: Weary.
• Popularity: #53

Lenora

• Name meaning: Light.
• Popularity: #763

Luella

• Name meaning: Famous warrior.
• Popularity: #930

Marion

• Name meaning: Drop of the sea; or beloved.
• Popularity: This name meaning love isn’t ranking.

Mirabella

• Name meaning: Wonderful.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Olivia

• Name meaning: Olive tree.
• Popularity: #1

Related: Middle Names for Olivia

Pearl

• Name meaning: Gem.
• Popularity: #805

Penelope

• Name meaning: Weaver.
• Popularity: #23

Related: Middle Names for Penelope

Philomena

• Name meaning: Lover of strength.
• Popularity: This P name isn’t ranking.

Prudence

• Name meaning: Careful.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Ruby

• Name meaning: Strong red gemstone.
• Popularity: #66

Stella

• Name meaning: Star.
• Popularity: #46

Viola

• Name meaning: Violet flower.
• Popularity: This V name isn’t ranking.

Pretty names for modern Southern girls

These lovely southern names are well-suited for a baby born in 2025 or 2026.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to country girl names

Addison

• Name meaning: Daughter of Adam.
• Popularity: #62

Related: Middle Names for Addison

Astrid

• Name meaning: Divinely beautiful.
• Popularity: #399

Aubrey

• Name meaning: Magical being.
• Popularity: #101

Related: Middle Names for Aubrey

Blair or Blaire

• Name meaning: Field or plain.
• Popularity: Blair ranks #239 and Blaire ranks #516.

Briar

• Name meaning: Thorny bush.
• Popularity: #550

Brianna

• Name meaning: Strong and honorable.
• Popularity: #152

Brynn

• Name meaning: Hill.
• Popularity: #413

Cassidy

• Name meaning: Curly-haired.
• Popularity: #496

Celia

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: #829

Cheyenne

• Name meaning: Supplanter or incoherent speaker. How can such a gorgeous name have such a lousy meaning?!
• Popularity: #790

Chloe

• Name meaning: Plant sprout.
• Popularity: #26

Related: Middle Names for Chloe

Delaney

• Name meaning: Challenger’s descendant.
• Popularity: #234

Elyse

• Name meaning: Abundance.
• Popularity: #806

Faith

• Name meaning: Devotion.
• Popularity: #242

Faye

• Name meaning: Fairy.
• Popularity: #500

Heidi

• Name meaning: Noble.
• Popularity: #351

Isla

• Name meaning: Island.
• Popularity: #33

Joelle

• Name meaning: Jehovah is God.
• Popularity: #936

Jolie

• Name meaning: Pretty.
• Popularity: #907

Kayla or Cayla

• Name meaning: Slim and fair.
• Popularity: Kayla ranks #324 and Cayla isn’t ranking.

Kensington

• Name meaning: Part of London, England.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Kenzie

• Name meaning: Bright one.
• Popularity: #564

Kylie

• Name meaning: Boomerang or graceful.
• Popularity: #207

Lacey

• Name meaning: From Lassy.
• Popularity: #759

Lana

• Name meaning: Light, gracious, or little rock.
• Popularity: #416

Related: Names Similar to Luna

Layla or Leila or Laila

• Name meaning: Night or dark.
• Popularity: Layla ranks #30, Leila ranks #240, and Laila ranks #312.

Leigh

• Name meaning: Delicate.
• Popularity: This L name isn’t ranking.

Lyla or Lila

• Name meaning: Night or dark.
• Popularity: Lyla ranks #98 and Lila ranks #213.

Mackenzie

• Name meaning: Daughter of Kenneth.
• Popularity: #165

Macie

• Name meaning: Hill.
• Popularity: #474

Madison

• Name meaning: Child of Matthew.
• Popularity: #36

Related: Middle Names for Madison

Maeve

• Name meaning: She who intoxicates.
• Popularity: #73

Maisie

• Name meaning: Pearl.
• Popularity: #293

Mazie

• Name meaning: Child of light.
• Popularity: #958

Mia

• Name meaning: Mine.
• Popularity: #6

Related: Middle Names for Mia

Mila

• Name meaning: Beloved.
• Popularity: #28

Piper

• Name meaning: Flute player.
• Popularity: #133

Related: Middle Names for Piper

Quinn

• Name meaning: Descendant of Conn.
• Popularity: This name ranks #85 for girls and #452 for boys.

Related: Middle Names for Quinn

Rayna or Reyna or Reina

• Name meaning: Queen.
• Popularity: Rayna ranks #717, Reyna ranks #569, and Reina ranks #643.

Rhea or Raya

• Name meaning: To flow.
• Popularity: Rhea ranks #526 and Raya ranks #353.

Zoey or Zoe

• Name meaning: Life.
• Popularity: Zoey ranks #51 and Zoe ranks #37.

Country girl names

These country names evoke a down-to-earth, rural, or traditional American aesthetic.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to double names

Bonnie

• Name meaning: Good and cheerful companion.
• Popularity: #502

Emmylou

• Name meaning: A combination of Emmy (industrious) and Lou (famous warrior).
• Popularity: This southern name isn’t ranking.

Mavis

• Name meaning: Song thrush bird.
• Popularity: #595

Maybelle

• Name meaning: A combination of May (spring month) and Belle (beautiful).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Tess

• Name meaning: Harvester or reaper.
• Popularity: This short name isn’t ranking.

Winnie

• Name meaning: Fair one or blessed peacemaker.
• Popularity: #612

Double first names for southern girls

Compound names are a meaningful way to preserve family connections and a southern identity.

👉🏼 or jump ahead to old southern names you don’t hear anymore

Classic Southern Combinations:

– Betty Lou
– Betty Jean
– Bobbie Sue
– Daisy Mae
– Eliza Jane
– Ella Grace
– Emma Jean
– Emma Kate
– Emma Rose
– Georgia Mae
– Hannah Rose
– Ida Belle
– Laura Beth
– Lara Lee
– Leigh Anne
– Lucy Mae
– Mae Belle
– Martha Jane
– Rose Marie
– Ruby Mae
– Sally Ann
– Sara Beth
– Sue Ellen

Distinctive Southern Charmers:
– Ada Pearl
– Alma Jean
– Belle Katherine
– Clara June
– Dixie Lee
– Etta Mae
– Flora June
– Ginny Lou
– Hattie Mae
– Josie Beth
– Lily Pearl
– Lou Ellen
– Millie Grace
– Nettie Rose
– Pearl Anne
– Ruth Ellen
– Susie Mae
– Tessa Jane
– Verna Mae
– Winnie Belle

Southern double names often use Mary, Anna, or Sarah as the first name, followed by a family name.

Here are some charming combinations…

Names with Mary:
– Mary Beth
– Mary Catherine
– Mary Grace
– Mary Ann
– Mary Jane
– Mary Claire
– Mary Elizabeth
– Mary Ellen
– Mary Jo
– Mary Louise
– Mary Margaret
– Mary Blake
– Mary Frances
– Mary Alice
– Mary Ella

Names with Anna:
– Anna Grace
– Anna Claire
– Anna Kate
– Anna Beth
– Anna Caroline
– Anna Jane
– Anna Marie
– Anna Rose
– Anna Lee
– Anna Belle
– Anna Laura

Names with Sarah:
– Sarah Jane
– Sarah Beth
– Sarah Grace
– Sarah Anne
– Sarah Jean
– Sarah Catherine

Old southern names you don’t hear anymore

These girls’ names were authentic to the Antebellum period but have fallen out of common usage today.

👉🏼 or jump to middle names

Aibileen

• Name meaning: Form of Evelyn meaning desired or beautiful bird.
• Popularity: This bird-themed name isn’t ranking.

Amaryllis

• Name meaning: Sparkling or to sparkle.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Calpurnia

• Name meaning: Ancient Roman family name.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Edmonia

• Name meaning: Wealthy protector.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Eudora

• Name meaning: Good gift.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Honoria

• Name meaning: Woman of honor.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Idella

• Name meaning: Industrious or hardworking.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Lavinia

• Name meaning: Woman of Rome.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Lucinda

• Name meaning: Light.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Permelia

• Name meaning: Variant of Pamela meaning all sweetness.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Sophronia

• Name meaning: Wise or sensible.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Susannah or Susanna

• Name meaning: Lily.
• Popularity: Neither of these southern girl names is ranked.

Tabitha

• Name meaning: Gazelle or graceful.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Temperance

• Name meaning: Self-restraint or moderation.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Varina

• Name meaning: From Varus, an ancient Roman name.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Best southern middle names

Grace and Rose are two very popular choices for middle names due to their beauty, simplicity, and versatility.

Some might argue that they’re “overdone”, but I’d disagree. Middle names don’t have to be unique, they just have to sound pretty or have meaning.

If those “go-to” middle names aren’t right for you, any of the southern girl names on this enormous list would make a beautiful middle name for your southern belle.

Here are 20 southern middle name ideas (in addition to Grace and Rose) that are particularly easy to pair with most first names:

And if you need more ideas, check out 500+ Middle Names for Girls (Organized by Style and Length).

Southern Girl Names: Trend Analysis

Southern girl names reflect the American South’s complex history, blending influences from English, French, Scottish, and African American traditions.

The antebellum South (roughly 1815-1861) saw popularity in classic, elegant names with European roots.

Interestingly, many of these historical Southern girl names are making remarkable comebacks in 2025, with over 40 antebellum classics currently ranking in the top 1000.

The aristocratic naming tradition of the Southern planter class shows particular strength today.

• Isabella (#7), Evelyn (#9), Victoria (#34), and Aurora (#36) lead this category, demonstrating the enduring appeal of elaborate, regal choices.
• Meanwhile, Lillian (#46), Melanie (#105), and Octavia (#335) are part of a robust revival of elegant, feminine names with historical significance.

Among common antebellum names, Amelia (#4), Emma (#2), Eleanor (#14), and Elizabeth (#15) show the strongest performance.

Notably absent from today’s rankings are several once-ubiquitous names like Agnes, Delia, Harriet, and Constance—though their stylistic cousins are surging.

Perhaps most striking is the resurgence of diminutive forms that once dominated Southern parlors. Ellie (#29), Nora (#30), Ella (#15), and Sadie (#78) lead this category. Meanwhile, Lainey has made a dramatic leap to #54 (up 120 spots), Evie has climbed to #265, and Millie has reached #190.

Geographical Southern inspirations remain popular, with Charlotte claiming an impressive #3 ranking. Savannah (#92), Georgia (#128), and Carolina (#424) offer direct connections to Southern places, while Dallas shows surprising strength at #213 for girls.

Double names remain a quintessential Southern tradition. Combinations using ranked names like Mary Claire, Anna Kate, or Emma Grace create a melodic flow while honoring family connections—a practice deeply valued in Southern naming customs.

Southern naming conventions often include:

• Family surnames as first names (exemplified by Sutton, now at #205)
• Biblical names with Southern pronunciations
• Nature-inspired names (Birdie has surged to #701)
• Elaborate, feminine names with multiple syllables (Seraphina entered the rankings at #974)
• Vintage diminutives (Lottie jumped 175 spots to #775)

Viral Southern Names to Watch

Six Southern girl names demonstrate exceptional viral potential based on their recent trajectory and cultural momentum.

• Aurelia (#371) shows the hallmarks of a name destined for the top 100. After joining the rankings in 2012, it has engineered a remarkable ascent, culminating in a dramatic 117-spot jump in 2023 alone. Mark Zuckerberg’s selection of this name for his daughter in 2023 provides the high-profile exposure that historically catalyzes explosive growth. Its four-syllable elegance and connection to top-ranked Amelia (#4) position it perfectly for continued ascent.
• Birdie (#701) represents the perfect storm of Southern naming trends—it’s simultaneously vintage, diminutive, and nature-inspired. After vanishing from rankings for over 70 years, it has soared 186 spots in just two years, with its momentum actually accelerating. Its rank suggests it’s still in the early stages of what could be a meteoric rise.
• Florence (#521) has climbed an impressive 448 spots in just six years, showing the power of place-name appeal combined with vintage charm. Its international success (ranked #8 in England) suggests potential for dramatic U.S. growth, particularly with actress Florence Pugh bringing cultural visibility to this geographic gem.
• Lainey (#54) has orchestrated one of the most dramatic rises in recent naming history, jumping 120 spots in 2023 alone and representing a 406-spot improvement since 2018. ABC’s “The Goldbergs” and country music star Lainey Wilson have given this name significant cultural visibility, pushing it toward potential top-25 status by year’s end.
• Mabel (#278) exemplifies the classic Southern revival pattern—disappeared from rankings in the 1960s, returned in the 2010s, and now accelerating dramatically toward the top 100. Its three-year climb from #428 to #278 shows the kind of momentum that often precedes viral growth, bolstered by visibility through shows like “Only Murders in the Building.”
• Poppy (#289) offers a fresh botanical option in the Southern naming landscape. Since appearing at #747 in 2016, it has risen 458 spots in just 7 years. Already established in the UK (#11), its cheerful sound and cultural visibility through the “Trolls” franchise position it for continued ascent.

2025 Predictions

Looking ahead in 2025, expect Aurelia to break into the top 200, given its impressive 117-position jump and celebrity endorsement.

Similarly, Lainey may crack the top 25, continuing its meteoric rise and bolstered by Lainey Wilson’s growing country music stardom.

Vintage diminutives showing recent momentum—Birdie, Mabel, and Poppy—will continue their upward trajectory, potentially inspiring revivals of similar antebellum nicknames like Minnie, Hattie, and Etta.

Currently unranked aristocratic names like Theodora, Isadora, and Wilhelmina may enter the rankings, following the path cleared by Adelaide (#274) and Evangeline (#263).

Additional geographical names inspired by Southern towns and landmarks will gain popularity as parents seek authentic regional connections.

Our list of Southern girl names predicted to go viral shows that vintage charm combined with cultural visibility creates the perfect formula for explosive growth.

The dramatic rises seen in names like Aurelia, Lainey, and Birdie represent just the beginning of what’s likely to be a significant shift in the Southern naming landscape.

If you’re considering a Southern name for your baby girl, this golden age of Southern revival offers unprecedented choice—whether you’re drawn to aristocratic elegance, vintage diminutives, or place-inspired options, you’ll find a beautiful balance of tradition and freshness.

More baby names for girls:

• Girl Names Sorted By Syllable (2025 Edition with 500+ Names)
• 250+ Winter Names for Girls: Top Picks for 2025
• 120 Meaningful Names for Rainbow Babies [Girls Edition]
• Twin Girl Names: 280 Stunning Combinations for 2025

The source for popularity data is SSN.

This article was originally published on Nov 29, 2021 and was updated on May 3, 2025.

Southern Girl Names