Dakota is a moderately popular girls' name in United States, ranking #262 in 2023 with 1,189 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2006 with 1,839 births ranking #190. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 12.7%. In 2023, approximately 1 in every 1,348 girls born was named Dakota. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
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.