Leighton is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #464 in 2024 with 86 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2013 with 394 births ranking #150. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 43.3%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 3,230 boys born was named Leighton. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Leighton is an English place and surname name with a tailored modern sound. Its old meaning refers to a settlement associated with leeks.
Like many surname-style choices, Leighton moved into first-name use because it feels polished and contemporary. Its crisp structure gives it a more formal look than many softer modern names.