Elena is a moderately popular girls' name in United States, ranking #301 in 1996 with 947 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 4,836 births ranking #42. In 1996, approximately 1 in every 1,851 girls born was named Elena. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
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.