Dalton is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #621 in 2025 with 60 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2019 with 86 births ranking #469. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 87.5%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 4,532 boys born was named Dalton. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Dalton is an English place-name and surname name usually meaning "settlement in the valley". It feels sturdy and familiar, with the polished shape of a reliable modern surname name.
The name became popular in the United States through the wider trend for surname-style boys' names. Its appeal comes from sounding traditional without feeling too formal.