Paul is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #262 in 2025 with 1,316 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 4,883 births ranking #78. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 73.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,298 boys born was named Paul. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Paul is a simple classic from Latin roots meaning small or humble. Its quiet strength has helped it remain steady for centuries.
The name spread widely through Christianity because of Saint Paul the Apostle and became one of the core boys' names of Europe. Its plainness is part of its durability.