Franklin is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #346 in 2024 with 126 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2021 with 184 births ranking #260. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 530.0%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 2,205 boys born was named Franklin. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Franklin is an English surname and title name meaning a free landholder. It has a substantial, respectable feel and a long history in English-speaking naming.
The name comes from a medieval rank rather than from an older personal name. It later became established as both a surname and a first name, helped by famous bearers such as Benjamin Franklin.