SPRINGFIELD — The most popular baby names in Illinois last year? Noah and Olivia.
The Social Security Administration has released Illinois’ top five boys and girls names for 2017.
For boys, the top five were Noah, Liam, Benjamin, Logan and Alexander. The most popular girls’ names were Olivia, Emma, Ava, Sophia and Isabella.
Nationwide, Liam and Emma topped the list. The Social Security agency says pop culture has also had an effect on naming trends. There’s been an increase in girls named Melania in a clear nod to the first lady of the United States. There’s also been an increase in names after ‘Bachelorette’ contestants.
The Social Security Agency compiles a list of baby names every year and has name records dating back to 1800.
