Charles is a popular boys' name in United States, ranking #51 in 2024 with 5,593 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 8,247 births ranking #43. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 32.2%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 307 boys born was named Charles. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Charles is a major classic derived from Karl and linked with the idea of a man or free man. It has long been associated with royalty, stability, and traditional strength.
The name spread widely through European history and became especially prominent through kings, emperors, saints, and noble families. In English, it remains one of the enduring formal classics.