Dakota is a moderately popular girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #490 in 2025 with 81 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2024 with 108 births ranking #400. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 710.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 3,127 girls 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.