Popular 70s Names Making a Comeback

Everything old eventually becomes new again, and baby names are no exception. If you love a little retro charm, the 1970s offer plenty of inspiration, from familiar favorites to unique names with a free-spirited feel.

Some of the most popular 70s baby names, like Jennifer, Amy, Michael, and Christopher, defined a generation. Others were inspired by the decade’s music, fashion, pop culture, and the peace-and-love spirit of the hippie movement.

We’re not just talking about vintage names from the Victorian era, but totally cool, that’s so 70’s names from the age of the Hippies and the rise of Disco.

Popular 1970s Girl Names

The 1970s gave us some of the most recognizable girl names of a generation. From sweet, timeless choices like Amy and Sarah to favorites like Jennifer and Kimberly, these names filled classrooms throughout the decade. Today, many have a nostalgic charm that makes them worth another look.

Jennifer

Earning the top spot for 1970s names for girls, a whopping 581,759 baby girls were named Jennifer throughout the decade. It is of Cornish origin and means “fair one” or “white wave.”

Amy

Another of the most popular girl names of the 1970s, this sweet three-letter French namemeans “beloved” or “well-loved.”

Melissa

A sweet nature-inspired name, Melissa comes from the Greek word for “honeybee.” It was a favorite throughout the 70s and has a timeless, feminine feel.

Michelle

A feminine form of Michael, Michelle is of French and Hebrew origin and means “Who is like God?” This pretty name was a 70s favorite, thanks in part to the Beatles’ classic song of the same name.

Kimberly

A popular 70s girl name with English roots, Kimberly means “Cyneburg’s meadow.” With its nature-inspired meaning and familiar nickname Kim, it’s a sweet choice with a retro feel.

Lisa

Short, sweet, and unmistakably 70s, Lisa was one of the decade’s most popular girl names. A shortened form of Elizabeth, this name has Hebrew origins and means “God is my oath.”

Angela

A lovely name with Greek origins, Angela means “messenger” or “angel.” It was a popular choice for 70s babies and has an elegant, timeless quality.

Heather

This nature-inspired name was especially popular in the 1970s. Of English origin, Heather refers to the beautiful flowering shrub that blankets hillsides in shades of purple and pink.

Stephanie

A classic 70s favorite, Stephanie is the feminine form of Stephen and comes from the Greek word for “crown” or “garland.” It’s a pretty name with a regal meaning.

Nicole

With French and Greek origins, Nicole means “victory of the people.” This chic, feminine name gained popularity during the 70s and has a timeless appeal.

Jessica

A name with literary roots, Jessica first appeared in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but its popularity certainly isn’t. Jessica began its rise during the 1970s before becoming one of the biggest baby names of the following decade.

Rebecca

Of Hebrew origin, Rebecca is traditionally associated with the meaning “to bind” or “to tie.” This classic name was a popular choice for 70s baby girls and comes with the sweet nickname Becca.

Elizabeth

A timeless name that never seems to go out of style, Elizabeth is of Hebrew origin and means “God is my oath.” With nicknames like Liz, Beth, and Betsy, it’s easy to see why parents have loved this name for generations.

Kelly

A cheerful, Irish-inspired name, Kelly is often associated with meanings like “bright-headed” or “warrior.” It was a familiar favorite in the 1970s and has a friendly, upbeat feel.

Sarah

Of Hebrew origin, Sarah means “princess.” This classic girl name was popular throughout the 70s and remains a beautiful, understated choice today.

Popular 1970s Boy Names

From classic favorites like Michael and James to names that practically defined the decade, these popular 1970s boy names have plenty of retro charm. Some have never gone out of style, while others are ready for a fresh comeback.

Michael

A staggering 707,588 baby boys were named Michael throughout the 1970s, making it the winning moniker of the decade. The name Michael is of Hebrew origin and means “Who is like God?”

Christopher

The second most popular name for boys during the 1970s, with 475,597 babies sharing the name throughout the decade, Christopher is of Greek origin and means “Christ-bearer.”

James

A classic that never goes out of style, James was one of the most popular boy names of the 70s. Of Hebrew origin, the name means “supplanter” and has been a favorite for generations.

David

Another 70s favorite with staying power, David is of Hebrew origin and means “beloved.” From David Bowie to David Cassidy, the decade had no shortage of famous Davids.

John

Coming in at number six in popularity for boys during the 1970s, John was given to more than 400,000 babies throughout the decade. And with 70s icons including John Lennon and John Travolta, the name feels oh-so retro in all the right ways. John is of Hebrew origin and means “God is gracious.”

Robert

A strong, traditional name that was everywhere in the 1970s, Robert is of Germanic origin and means “bright fame.” With nicknames like Rob, Robbie, and Bobby, it’s a versatile classic.

Jason

Jason became a major favorite during the 70s, bringing a fresh sound to the decade’s baby name lists. Of Greek origin, the name means “healer” and has roots in ancient mythology.

Brian

A familiar favorite among 70s boys, Brian is of Irish origin and is often associated with the meanings “noble” or “high.” It’s a friendly, easygoing name with a distinctly retro feel.

William

A timeless name with Germanic roots, William means “resolute protector.” This popular 70s choice comes with plenty of nickname possibilities, including Will, Billy, and Liam.

Matthew

Of Hebrew origin, Matthew means “gift of God.” This warm, classic name grew in popularity throughout the 1970s and remains a favorite for parents who love traditional names.

Joseph

Another enduring favorite, Joseph is of Hebrew origin and means “God will add.” From Joe to Joey, this popular 70s boy name has a sweet, approachable feel.

Daniel

A classic name with Hebrew origins, Daniel means “God is my judge.” It was a popular choice throughout the 70s and comes with the friendly nickname Danny.

Kevin

Kevin was a familiar name in 1970s classrooms. Of Irish origin, it means “handsome” or “beloved,” making it a sweet choice with plenty of vintage charm.

Eric

Short, strong, and effortlessly cool, Eric is of Old Norse origin and means “eternal ruler.” It was a popular choice for boys during the 1970s and still feels fresh today.

Scott

A name that feels right at home in the 70s, Scott is of Scottish origin and originally referred to a person from Scotland. Simple and easygoing, it’s a retro choice that doesn’t feel overly vintage.

Unique 70s Baby Names Inspired by the Decade

Beyond the popular names that filled 1970s classrooms, the decade gave us plenty of inspiration for something a little more unexpected. From disco and rock legends to the peace-and-love movement, these unique 70s baby names capture the free-spirited energy of the era.

Apollo

An infinity-and-beyond kind of name inspired by Apollo 13, the historic spacecraft mission that launched from Kennedy Space Center on April 11, 1970. Of Greek origin, Apollo is the name of the Greek god associated with music, poetry, and light. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but its connection to space exploration makes it a wonderfully adventurous choice.

Cher

Cher as a girl’s name is of French origin and means “dear.” The name landed itself on our list of unique 70s names thanks to the “Goddess of Pop” herself, Cher, whose full name is Cherilyn.

Cicely

Cicely Tyson earned widespread acclaim during the 1970s, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. She has a beautiful name we couldn’t help but include on this list. Cicely is a variation of Cecilia.

Diana

Diana Ross, another icon who requires little introduction, has a name that originates from the Roman goddess Diana. Of Latin origin, the name is often associated with meanings like “divine” or “heavenly.”

Goldie

Going for pure gold here with this list of unique 70s names, Goldie, in honor of Goldie Hawn, just had to be included. Goldie literally means “gold” and can also be a nickname for Marigold.

Halston

A gender-neutral name of English origin, Halston is often interpreted as “hallowed stone.” It’s on this list thanks to the iconic Roy Halston Frowick, the American fashion designer who rose to international fame in the 1970s. His name is still used on glamorous fashions today.

Joni

Inspired by singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, whose music helped define the folk-rock sound of the 1970s, Joni is a sweet retro choice. A variation of Joan, the name has Hebrew roots and means “God is gracious.”

Lennon

In honor of John Lennon, whose music and message of peace resonated throughout the 70s, Lennon makes a cool gender-neutral baby name. Of Irish origin, it is commonly associated with the meaning “lover” or “sweetheart.”

Marley

Bob Marley helped bring reggae music to international audiences during the 1970s, making Marley a fitting tribute to the decade’s musical spirit. Of English origin, the name is often interpreted as “pleasant wood” or “boundary wood.”

Martin

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most prominent leaders of the civil rights movement until his assassination in 1968. His mission lived on, and his memory was honored throughout the 1970s and beyond. The name Martin has Latin ties to Mars, the Roman god of war.

Mia

Mia Farrow, a 70s starlet whose full name is María de Lourdes Villiers Farrow, has a name with a retro vibe we love. With cross-cultural origins, Mia is often used as a shortened form of Maria and can also mean “mine” in Italian.

Peace

The name Peace is another gender-neutral option that’s found its way onto our list of unique 70s names because of the peace-and-love movement embraced by the hippie community during the era. In fact, Peace and Love could make for a perfectly serene pair of names for twins. As an English word name, Peace means “tranquility” or “harmony.”

Presley

Presley is an iconic 70s-inspired name thanks to Elvis Presley, who continued performing to devoted audiences throughout the decade. This last-name-turned-first-name is derived from Old English and means “priest’s clearing.”

Priscilla

Priscilla Presley was the equally alluring former wife of Elvis. The name is of Latin origin and means “ancient” or “venerable.” It’s a beautiful vintage choice with a glamorous 70s connection.

Ramone or Ramona

The Ramones became famous during the rise of punk rock in the 70s. The name Ramone is a variation of Ramón, of Spanish and Germanic origin, meaning “wise protector.” Ramona is its feminine counterpart and shares the same meaning.

Regan

Politics aside, the similar-sounding name Reagan is reminiscent of the 70s and manages to stay fresh and cool today. But for horror movie fans, Regan was the name of the daughter in the 1973 film The Exorcist. Regan is of Irish origin and is often interpreted as “little king.”

Sonny

The other half of the famous 70s pair, Sonny and Cher. A name of English origin, Sonny literally means “son.” It’s a cheerful, sunny choice that feels perfectly at home in the decade.

Stevie

Inspired by the legendary Stevie Nicks, who rose to fame with Fleetwood Mac during the 1970s, Stevie is a fun, gender-neutral choice. A nickname for Stephen or Stephanie, it has Greek origins and means “crown” or “garland.”

Sunshine

With the rise of disco came the popularity of KC and the Sunshine Band. Perfectly 70s, perfectly hippie in vibe, the name’s meaning is pretty obvious: sunshine. This cheerful nature-inspired name brings a little brightness wherever it goes.

Willow

With its peaceful, nature-loving feel, Willow fits beautifully into the free-spirited 70s aesthetic. Of English origin, the name refers to the graceful willow tree, often associated with flexibility and resilience.

Ziggy

Inspired by David Bowie’s unforgettable Ziggy Stardust persona, introduced in 1972, this playful name is about as glam-rock 70s as it gets. Ziggy is often used as a nickname for names like Sigmund or Siegfried, which have Germanic roots.

That’s So 70’s First and Middle Name Combos

• Apollo John: A name that’s reminiscent of the unique time in history.
• Mia Cecily: Unique, pretty and a subtle nod to the bygone era, the name has an Italian ring to it.
• Presley Peace: Alliteration, iconic, symbolic. What could be a better 70’s name?
• Christopher Ramone: Classic meets punk.
• Cherilyn Sunshine: Totally hippie-approved, totally 70’s.
• Joni Willow: A sweet, nature-inspired combination with a little folk-rock spirit.
• Stevie Goldie: Playful, glamorous, and inspired by two unforgettable women of the 70s.
• Lennon James: A classic meets rock-and-roll combination with timeless appeal.
• Marley Sunshine: Free-spirited, cheerful, and full of good vibrations.
• Diana Michelle: Two elegant names with a subtle nod to the decade’s music icons.
• Ziggy Apollo: Glam rock meets space exploration. An adventurous combination that’s wonderfully 70s.

Have a 70’s name idea of your own? Drop it in the comments, we want to hear it!