How Many People Are Named David: A Comprehensive Exploration

Juliana Heidenreich 19 Jun 2025

David is one of the most timeless and popular names in history, with a rich cultural and historical significance. Whether you're curious about its origins, popularity, or how many people share this name, this article dives deep into the numbers, trends, and fascinating facts surrounding the name David. If you've ever wondered how many people are named David, you're in the right place.

Names often reflect cultural, historical, and social trends, and David stands out as one of the most enduring names across generations. Its biblical roots and universal appeal have contributed to its widespread use around the globe. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the name David, including its origins, global distribution, and current popularity.

From ancient times to modern-day statistics, we'll uncover the reasons behind David's enduring appeal. By the end of this article, you'll have a clearer understanding of how many people are named David, as well as the cultural and historical significance of this iconic name.

The Origins of the Name David
Global Popularity of the Name David
David's Popularity in the United States
David's Popularity in the United Kingdom
David's Popularity in Other Countries
Cultural Significance of the Name David
Famous People Named David
Name Variants and Nicknames for David
Future Trends for the Name David
Conclusion

The Origins of the Name David

The name David has deep historical roots, tracing back to biblical times. It originates from Hebrew, meaning "beloved" or "dear one." In the Bible, David is the second king of Israel and is celebrated for his bravery, wisdom, and leadership. His story, including his victory over Goliath, has made the name synonymous with strength and resilience.

In addition to its biblical significance, David has been embraced by various cultures and religions. Its universal appeal can be attributed to its simplicity and meaningful connotations. Over the centuries, the name has transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, becoming one of the most widely recognized names globally.

Why Is David So Popular?

Several factors contribute to the enduring popularity of the name David:

Historical Significance: The biblical story of David resonates with people of various faiths.
Cultural Influence: Famous figures named David, such as musicians, actors, and leaders, have helped maintain the name's relevance.
Timeless Appeal: Unlike some names that experience fleeting popularity, David remains a classic choice for parents worldwide.

Global Popularity of the Name David

When exploring how many people are named David, it's essential to consider the name's global reach. While exact numbers vary depending on the country and region, David consistently ranks among the top male names worldwide. According to the United Nations' demographic data, millions of people bear the name David, making it one of the most common names globally.

David in Different Cultures

In various cultures, the name David takes on different forms while retaining its core meaning:

Spain: David is a popular name, often paired with traditional Spanish surnames.
France: Known as "David" in French, it remains a classic choice for French parents.
Israel: As the name's origin, David holds immense cultural and religious significance in Israel.

David's Popularity in the United States

In the United States, David has consistently ranked among the top male names since the early 20th century. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), over 5 million people in the U.S. are named David, making it one of the most common male names in the country. While its popularity has slightly declined in recent decades, David remains a beloved choice for parents.

Data from the SSA shows that David peaked in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, with thousands of babies named David each year. Although trends have shifted, the name continues to hold a significant place in American culture.

Regional Variations in the U.S.

David's popularity varies by region within the U.S.:

California: David ranks among the top 50 male names in California.
Texas: The name is particularly popular in Texas, where it has historical ties.
New York: Despite urban diversity, David remains a classic choice in New York.

David's Popularity in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, David has experienced a similar trajectory to its popularity in the U.S. While it was once a top choice for parents, its ranking has declined in recent years. According to the UK Office for National Statistics, approximately 500,000 people in the UK are named David, reflecting its historical significance.

Despite its decline in popularity, David remains a respected and classic name in British culture. Its association with historical figures and royalty has contributed to its enduring appeal.

Modern Trends in the UK

While David may not be as popular as it once was, its timeless nature ensures it remains a viable option for parents seeking a traditional name. Modern variations, such as "Davie" or "Dafydd," have also gained traction in certain regions.

David's Popularity in Other Countries

David's popularity extends beyond the U.S. and UK, with significant numbers in countries like:

Spain: David is one of the most common names, with over 1 million people sharing the name.
France: Approximately 700,000 people in France are named David.
Israel: As the name's origin, Israel boasts a high concentration of people named David.

These statistics underscore the name's global reach and cultural significance.

Cultural Significance of the Name David

Beyond its numerical prevalence, David carries immense cultural and historical significance. From biblical narratives to modern-day adaptations, the name has inspired countless works of art, literature, and music. Michelangelo's "David" sculpture, for example, remains one of the most iconic representations of the name's power and grace.

David's association with strength, courage, and leadership has made it a symbol of resilience in various cultures. Its timeless appeal ensures that it continues to resonate with people across generations.

David in Literature and Film

Throughout history, David has been immortalized in literature and film:

David Copperfield: Charles Dickens' classic novel features a protagonist named David, highlighting the name's literary significance.
David Bowie: The legendary musician and artist brought the name to new heights with his creative genius.

Famous People Named David

Countless influential figures bear the name David, further cementing its place in history:

Biography of Famous Davids

Name	Profession	Country	Years Active
David Beckham	Soccer Player	United Kingdom	1991–Present
David Attenborough	Naturalist and Broadcaster	United Kingdom	1952–Present
David Letterman	Comedian and TV Host	United States	1982–2015

Name Variants and Nicknames for David

While David remains the most common form of the name, variations and nicknames exist across cultures:

Short Forms: Dave, Davy
International Variants: Dávid (Hungarian), Davide (Italian), Dafydd (Welsh)
Nicknames: Davo, Dav

Future Trends for the Name David

As naming trends evolve, classic names like David continue to hold their ground. While modern parents may opt for more unique choices, the name's timeless appeal ensures it remains relevant. According to demographic projections, David will likely maintain its position as one of the most common names worldwide, albeit with slight fluctuations in popularity.

Future generations may see a resurgence in traditional names, driven by a desire for simplicity and meaning. David, with its rich history and universal appeal, is well-positioned to remain a favorite choice for parents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name David is a testament to the power of tradition and cultural significance. With millions of people named David worldwide, its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal. From biblical origins to modern-day fame, David continues to inspire and resonate with people across generations.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with the name David in the comments below. Are you named David or know someone who is? Let us know! For more insights into names and cultural trends, explore our other articles and stay updated on the latest developments in the world of naming.

A HUMAN NAMED DAVID

List of Famous People named David

for people named David by Marito Zavala Download free STL model

How They Really Feel