Franklin is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #410 in 2023 with 780 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 909 births ranking #359. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 12.4%. In 2023, approximately 1 in every 2,190 boys born was named Franklin. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
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.