Nolan is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #554 in 2016 with 69 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 159 births ranking #283. In 2016, approximately 1 in every 4,811 boys born was named Nolan. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Nolan comes from an Irish surname and is usually traced back to the old personal name Nuallan. It has an energetic, modern feel while still leaning on genuine Irish roots.
The name grew in popularity through the wider trend for using surnames as first names. Its appeal lies in sounding friendly, strong, and contemporary without feeling invented.