Which is more popular, Emma or Isabella?

Across the 18 years both are ranked, Emma placed higher in 15 of them.

Which one ranks higher now?

In 2025, the most recent year both are ranked, Emma is ahead.

What are their best ranks?

Emma peaked at #1 in 2014; Isabella peaked at #1 in 2009.

Where does this comparison come from?

National rankings from US Social Security Administration baby name data. Years where a name falls outside the published ranking are left out of the comparison.

Emma vs Isabella: Name Popularity Compared

Emma and Isabella have both reached the top 5 at some point, and they appear in the same ranking in 18 years.

Emma ranked higher in 15 of those years, Isabella in 3.

They traded places 2 times: 2009, 2012.

The most recent switch was in 2012, when Emma moved ahead of Isabella.

The gap was widest in 2021, when Emma sat 12 places ahead.

In the most recent year where both are ranked (2025), Emma sits ahead of Isabella.

EmmaIsabella

Emma: 1 · 2014 · 18; Years ahead: 15
Isabella: 1 · 2009 · 18; Years ahead: 3

Full detail for each name: Emma · Isabella

Frequently asked questions

Which is more popular, Emma or Isabella?: Across the 18 years both are ranked, Emma placed higher in 15 of them.
Have Emma and Isabella ever traded places?: Yes, 2 times: 2009, 2012.
Which one ranks higher now?: In 2025, the most recent year both are ranked, Emma is ahead.
What are their best ranks?: Emma peaked at #1 in 2014; Isabella peaked at #1 in 2009.
Where does this comparison come from?: National rankings from US Social Security Administration baby name data. Years where a name falls outside the published ranking are left out of the comparison.

U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) - Popular Baby Names (national)