The most recent survey of New York City's most popular baby names for girls includes classics like Emily and Sarah, along with new favorites like Kayla and Brianna.
The study of the 124,099 babies born in New York City in 2004 was conducted by The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (also see Top Ten Baby Names for Boys in New York).
1. Emily
Emily was the most popular name overall and also the favorite for New Yorkers of Asian and Pacific Island descent. This is the second year in a row at #1 for Emily, but the name has been in the top ten since 1995. The name Emily is said to mean "industrious."
2. Ashley
Ashley holds tight at #2, despite losing the #1 position to Emily last year after ruling the list since 1993. Ashley is still the top pick for Hispanic parents in New York. 3. Kayla
Kayla is the #1 most popular name among Black parents in New York City and the #3 most popular girl's name overall. The name Kayla comes from Hebrew for "crown of laurels."4. Sarah
Sarah is the most popular girl's name among White New York parents and #4 overall. The name Sarah comes from the Hebrew word for "princess." 5. Samantha
Samantha was the fifth most popular baby name for New York girls. The name Samantha is said to come from Aramaic words meaning "listens well."6. Isabella
The regal Isabella swept into sixth place. The name Isabella comes from Italian for "consecrated to God."7. Brianna
Brianna was in seventh place, possibly due to a surge in the number of proud new papas named Brian. The name Brianna comes from Celtic for "strong one."8. Sophia
Sophia was the eighth most popular baby name for girls in New York City. The name Sophia is from the Greek for "wisdom."9. Nicole
Possibly inspired by Ms. Kidman and Ms. Richie, Nicole was #9 on the list of popular girls' names. The name Nicole is from the Greek words for "victorious people."10. Olivia
Olivia brought a touch of old-fashioned glamour to the top ten. The name Olivia is from the Latin for "peace (of the olive tree)."
