Leighton is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #539 in 2025 with 72 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2013 with 394 births ranking #150. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 20.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 3,777 boys born was named Leighton. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
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.