Dakota is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #328 in 2023 with 1,014 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 6,067 births ranking #58. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 83.3%. In 2023, approximately 1 in every 1,685 boys born was named Dakota. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Dakota is a strong unisex name associated with friendship and alliance. It feels open, modern, and slightly adventurous.
The name became popular in modern American use partly through place associations and its distinctive sound. It remains important to acknowledge that it comes from an indigenous people and language, not just from general style.