Hayes is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #212 in 2022 with 1,774 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2024 with 2,249 births ranking #160. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 4,226.8%. In 2022, approximately 1 in every 983 boys born was named Hayes. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Hayes is a clean, modern surname-style name with older roots linked to hedged or enclosed land. It has become popular because it sounds sharp, current, and easy to wear.
The name grew from surname use into first-name use through the wider trend for short, tailored boys' names. Its appeal is more about modern style than about its literal landscape meaning.