Elena is a moderately popular girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #161 in 2025 with 307 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2017 with 394 births ranking #135. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 44.1%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 825 girls born was named Elena. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Elena is a beautiful international classic meaning bright or shining light. It feels elegant, clear, and very widely loved.
The name has strong use across many European languages and remains a favourite because it sounds refined without being difficult. Its cross-cultural ease is one of its biggest strengths.