Top 180+ Southern Boy Names and Their Meanings

Welcome to our roundup of Southern boy names, covering everything from popular to unique, and touching on the cute, cool, strong, and deeply biblical for your little guy. Each name reflects the South’s diverse heritage, lush landscapes, and enduring spirit. Whether inspired by the charm of southern cities, the legacy of American namesakes, or the profound depths of biblical history, these southern boy names are imbued with qualities that are hard to resist, ya’ll.

Popular Southern Boy Names

Explore the heart of the South with our list of popular southern boy names like Asher, Carter, and Grayson. These names blend modern appeal with a touch of Southern charm and are all found on the list of top boy names according to the latest statistics in the United States. They’re perfect if you’re seeking a name that’s both trendy and rooted in tradition. 1. Asher. With Hebrew origins meaning “happy” or “blessed,” Asher brings a sense of joy and lightness. It’s a name that’s both modern and deeply rooted in history, making it a popular and classic southern boys’ name. 2. Caleb. Meaning “devotion to God” in Hebrew, Caleb has a strong, traditional feel with a touch of Southern charm. 3. Carson. A Scottish name meaning “son of the marsh-dwellers,” Carson has a rugged, outdoor feel that's right at home in the Southern United States. It’s popular but retains a unique edge. 4. Carter. Originally an English surname meaning “transporter of goods by cart,” this popular southern boys’ name has a working-class strength and charm. It's become a widespread choice, and was also the name of the former American president Jimmy Carter. 5. Grayson. Meaning “son of the bailiff,” this boys’ name starting with G has an aristocratic air mixed with Southern gentility. It’s a modern favorite that balances traditional roots with a contemporary feel. 6. Hudson. Inspired by the famous Hudson River, this name evokes a sense of adventure and exploration. It’s a popular and strong choice if you’re looking for a southern male name with a feel of both the great outdoors and classic Americana. 7. Lucas. Meaning “from Lucania” or “light,” Lucas sits at number 8 on the top 10 list of boy names in the United States. It's popular across various cultures and adds a touch of international charm to the South. 8. Jackson. Meaning “son of Jack” from an English surname, Jackson sits at number 23 on the list of top boys’ names in the United States—in fact, it has been in the top 1000 since records began. Adding to its Southern American vibes is the city of Jackson in Mississippi and the 7th president of the United States Andrew Jackson. 9. Jayden. A modern name with no specific meaning, Jayden has rocketed in popularity. Its playful sound and contemporary vibe make it a favorite if you’re looking for something both modern and distinctive. 10. Sebastian. With Latin origins meaning “venerable” or “revered,” this popular southern name for boys carries with it a sense of sophistication and historical depth. 11. Wyatt. Meaning “brave in war,” this southern male name has country-western vibes and brings to mind the famous lawman and gambler Wyatt Earp.

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Unique and Uncommon Southern Boy Names

Embark on a journey through the South with our collection of unique and uncommon southern baby boy names like Abbott and Kennedy. These distinctive names offer a blend of tradition and individuality, ideal for those in search of a rare and unique baby name with character and a deep southern connection. Discover the meanings behind these rare gems and find a truly special name that stands out from the crowd. 12. Abbott. Deriving from Hebrew, Abbott carries the profound meaning of “father,” and in English, it also references a name traditionally held by the heads of monasteries, symbolizing authority and spiritual oversight. 13. Atlas. This uncommon southern boys’ name, meaning “enduring” in Greek, is steeped in the lore of Greek mythology. It reflects the strength and resilience of the Titan tasked with holding the heavens on his shoulders, embodying the qualities of endurance and steadfastness. 14. Brenner. Originating from German, this unique boys’ name means “to burn,” suggesting a baby boy with a fiery spirit and a powerful presence. 15. Clyde. Named after the River Clyde in Scotland, this name was particularly favored in the 19th century. Perhaps it’s time for this boys’ name to become a top choice in the southern states again. 16. Houston. The city of Houston’s title came from the state’s president Sam Houston when Texas was a republic in the mid-nineteenth century. However, Houston means “Hugh’s town,” and Hugh means “heart, mind, spirit.” 17. Kennedy. Although more common for girls, Kennedy is a distinctive choice for boys, derived from an Irish surname meaning “misshapen head.” Despite its unusual meaning, it resonates with the allure and charm of the Kennedy family. 18. Patton. A diminutive form of Patrick, this uncommon southern boys’ name means “fighter’s town” or “nobleman,” suggesting valor and nobility. 19. Reeves. Stemming from Old English, Reeves means “sheriff.” 20. Whitney. Whitney is a gender-neutral name more commonly associated with females but equally compelling for a boy. It means “white island” in Old English. 21. Woodrow. Meaning “row of houses by a wood” in English, Woodrow was popularized by President Woodrow Wilson in 1912 and 1913. Though its popularity waned since, the name has a peaceful and homely vibe.

More Unique and Uncommon Southern Boy Names

Here are even more rare southern boy names for your unique little guy:

Choosing a baby name can be fun yet also overwhelming. Watch this video for exciting facts to help you find the perfect baby name!

Cute Southern Boy Names

If y’all are lookin’ for a name as sweet as peach pie for your little cowboy, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up a list of cute southern baby boy names that are just brimming with charm and tradition. 31. Banks. With its origins as an English surname for those residing near river banks, Banks is a trendy choice among cute southern boy names. It conjures images of serene waters and embodies a cool, laid-back southern charm. If you like this name, you might enjoy our list of names that mean water. 32. Beau. Beau, meaning “beautiful” or “handsome” in French, carries an air of elegance and charm well-suited to the southern grace immortalized in classics like Gone With the Wind. 33. Dawson. Meaning “son of David,” Dawson became a popular choice after the airing of the TV show Dawson’s Creek in 1998. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a cute and preppy southern boys’ name. 34. Dixon. If your little one’s father is named Richard, you might be interested in this cute southern boys’ name that simply means “son of Richard.” 35. Gray. The name Gray is sleek, simple, and evocative of the genteel and understated elegance of the South. Its association with the color suggests an effortless cool, making it a standout among cute southern boy names. 36. Leo. Leo, a name that signifies strength and courage with its lion symbolism, also carries a warmth and vibrancy fitting for a cute southern boy name. Its brevity and punch pack a powerful charm, suitable for a little one with a big personality. 37. Paxton. Meaning “peaceful town” in English, Paxton is a serene and gentle name that echoes the tranquility of southern landscapes. 38. Rowan. This Irish boys’ name means “little redhead.” It has gained popularity in the United States for its charming sound and connection to nature—and of course, it’s perfect for your fiery-haired baby boy. 39. Wells. This cute southern boys’ name means “spring,” and brings to mind refreshing natural waters and the rejuvenating spirit of the South. 40. Willie. A diminutive form of William, meaning “resolute protector,” Willie evokes the timeless charm of country music legend Willie Nelson. This name embodies a down-to-earth strength, making it a beloved addition to our list of cute southern boy names.

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Classic and Traditional Southern Boy Names

Step right up and check out our list of traditional and classic southern boy names. These timeless picks are steeped in history and filled with the kind of charm that’s as enduring as the Southern landscape itself. Whether you’re looking for a southern name for your little guy that’s been beloved for generations or one that carries a legacy of strength and honor, you'll find it here, wrapped up with a bow of Southern hospitality. 49. Clayton. Deriving from the English for “clay settlement,” Clayton has been a classic and traditional southern boys’ name that saw peaks in popularity during the 1980s and 1990s, as well as in the early 20th century. 50. Colton. Colton is originally an English name meaning “charcoal town.” It has a rugged, country feel that aligns perfectly with the pastoral landscapes of the South. 51. Curtis. Another boys’ name starting with C is Curtis, originating from Old French and meaning “polite/courteous.” Curtis carries a genteel charm, making it a distinguished choice with an air of old-world courtesy. 52. Dalton. With its meaning rooted in Old English as “valley town,” this classic southern boys’ name evokes the scenic beauty and peacefulness of southern valleys. 53. Franklin. Often used in honor of figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Benjamin Franklin, this name, meaning “freeman,” signifies independence and a pioneering spirit. Franklin embodies the ideals of freedom and innovation. 54. Henry. Meaning “home ruler” in German, this classic name has been borne by many notable figures throughout history. 55. Jameson. Meaning “son of James,” Jameson is a surname turned first name that has become a popular choice in the South. 56. Lincoln. Lincoln, a traditional boys’ name that is indelibly linked with the legacy of southern-born president Abraham Lincoln, suggests integrity and unity. Its historical significance and leadership qualities make it a profound choice for a classic southern boys’ name. 57. Mason. Originally denoting a stoneworker, Mason became one of the most popular boys’ names in the United States in 2011. But it isn’t just a modern moniker, this classic baby boys’ name has been a popular choice since the 1800s, making it a great southern name for your hardworking little man. 58. Theodore. This Greek boys’ name means “gift of god” and is another presidential name thanks to Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States. It’s a name that carries dignity and a timeless appeal. 59. Wade. From an English surname meaning “a ford” or “to go,” this classic southern boys’ name has been in the top 1000 since records began.

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Old-Fashioned Southern Boy Names

Take a stroll down memory lane with our selection of vintage southern boy names like Clarence and Huck, where each old-fashioned name carries the warmth of a sunlit porch swing and the charm of days gone by. 68. Atticus. Originating from Greek and meaning “Athenian,” the name Atticus gained widespread recognition and affection through its association with the noble character in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s a boys’ name that epitomizes old-fashioned Southern charm and the ideals of justice and moral integrity. 69. Clarence. Clarence, a British boys’ name of noble origin used by British royals, also carries a significant American heritage through civil rights activist Clarence Henderson. It embodies a blend of regal elegance and steadfast commitment to principles. 70. Deacon. The name Deacon, meaning “messenger” in the context of the Christian church, suggests service and leadership. This old-fashioned and vintage southern boys’ name captures the spirit of guidance and dedication. 71. Declan. Declan is an Old Irish name that was popular throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s in Ireland; however, in the United States, it only rose to popularity in recent years. 72. Edison. Drawing from the legacy of Thomas Edison, the name means “son of Eda” or “son of Adam.” It suggests innovation and brilliance, qualities that align with the inventive spirit and enduring legacy of its namesake, making it a notable choice among old-fashioned Southern boy names. 73. Hamilton. Occasionally used to honor Alexander Hamilton, this Scottish and English surname meaning “treeless hill” conjures images of historical grandeur and influence. Hamilton, despite being relatively quiet since the 1930s, retains significant cultural and historical importance, particularly in Southern states due to its connection to American founding narratives. 74. Hank. Hank is a timeless boys’ name starting with H that’s intimately connected to the southern soul through Alabama-born country singer Hank Williams. It’s derived from Henry, meaning “home ruler.” 75. Huck. This old-fashioned and quintessentially southern boys’ name is the short form of Huckleberry, which is the name of a berry-bearing shrub. It’s also the character created by author Mark Twain for his novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. 76. Travis. From an English and French place name, meaning “collector of tolls” (for a person who lived near a bridge or ford). This vintage southern boys’ name has been recorded in the top 1000 boy names in the United States since 1880. 77. Walker. Originally a medieval occupational surname for a fuller, Walker has evolved into a name signifying strength, and its prevalence in the South underscores a respect for tradition and a robust, pioneering spirit.

More Old-Fashioned Southern Boy Names

These names are like sweet tea on a hot day—full of comfort, history, and a dash of the South:

Strong Southern Boy Names

Step into the rugged heart of the South with our list of strong southern boy names, where each one is a nod to the courage and robust spirit that’s as grand as the Mississippi itself. These southern baby boy names ain’t just for show; they carry the legacy of southern resilience, offering a sturdy foundation and a proud heritage for your little one. 86. Barrett. From German, Barrett means “bear strength.” It’s a strong southern boy name that embodies the ruggedness and enduring spirit of the wilderness. 87. Brock. Meaning “badger” in English, Brock is a strong southern boys’ name that carries a sense of steadfastness and connection to the natural world. 88. Dallas. If you’re from Dallas or you’re a fan of this Texan city, Dallas is a strong-sounding and vibrant southern name for boys and girls. It means “valley house” in Old English or “meadow dwelling” in Scottish Gaelic. 89. Harrison. Meaning “son of Harry,” Harrison is a name rich in history and distinction, shared by two American presidents and celebrated actor Harrison Ford. It’s a strong southern boy name that evokes a sense of leadership, legacy, and enduring appeal. 90. Holden. Named after the protagonist in J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye, Holden, meaning “deep valley” in English, suggests depth and introspection. 91. Kenny. A diminutive of Kenneth, meaning “handsome” in Scottish, Kenny shines in the southern tradition with country music icons Kenny Chesney from Tennessee and Kenny Rodgers from Texas. It’s a strong K name for boys that sings of charm, talent, and the soulful depth of the southern spirit. 92. Knox. Meaning “round hill” in Scottish, Knox is a name of solid and resonant simplicity. 93. Lawson. This strong southern boys’ name means “son of Laurence” in English. 94. Otis. Meaning “wealthy” in English, this short and strong southern boys’ name not only speaks to material abundance but also to a richness of spirit and character. With notable namesakes like James Otis and musician Otis Redding, it’s a name that resonates with cultural depth and artistic legacy in the South. 95. Sawyer. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of the main character in Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, this name means “woodcutter” in English. It’s a name imbued with the spirit of adventure and independence, echoing the timeless allure of the southern ethos. 96. Weston. Meaning “western town” in English, Weston captures the pioneering spirit and expansive horizons of the American West. As a popular boy’s name in the United States, it evokes a sense of adventure and new beginnings, aligned with the bold and adventurous spirit of the South.

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Cool Southern Boy Names

Saddle up for a ride through the coolest corners of the South with names like Austin and Hendrix. These ain’t your ordinary names; they’re a mix of modern swagger and southern charm, perfect for a little one destined to stand out in any crowd with a laid-back confidence and an effortless cool. 105. Ashton. Meaning “ash tree town” in Old English, Ashton is a relatively modern name that gained popularity in the 1980s and peaked in 2004 partly thanks to celebrities like Ashton Kutcher. It combines natural elegance with a trendy edge, making it a cool southern boys’ name with contemporary appeal. 106. Austin. Named after the vibrant city in Texas and deriving from the Roman name Augustine meaning “exalted,” Austin exudes a cool and sophisticated charm. The star power of actor Austin Butler further enhances its appeal, cementing its status as a cool southern boys’ name with a touch of celebrity glamour. 107. Brooks. It may sound like a cool and modern southern boys’ name, but Brooks has actually been in the top 1000 boy names in the United States since records began. Plus, it evokes images of tranquil waters and natural beauty. 108. Chase. With its meaning "hunt" in English, Chase is a dynamic and spirited name that conveys a sense of adventure and determination. 109. Ellington. Why not use this cool southern boys’ name to honor the legendary musician Edward “Duke” Ellington! Originally from an English surname meaning “Ellis’s town” Ellington carries a legacy of musical sophistication and heritage. 110. Hendrix. A modern name that pays homage to the iconic guitarist Jimi Hendrix, Hendrix means “home ruler.” It’s a cool southern boys’ name that blends traditional roots with rock and roll flair. 111. Jagger. Here’s another rockstar-inspired name, honoring the legendary Mick Jagger. Jagger means “carter” in English and is a standout choice for a cool southern boys’ name, embodying the rebellious spirit and magnetic presence of its rock star namesake. 112. Jaxon. A popular and cool variant of Jackson, meaning “son of Jack.” The use of the letter X in the middle adds to this name’s cool vibe. 113. Johnny. Derived from John, meaning “Yahweh is gracious,” Johnny carries the timeless appeal and laid-back charm of music legends like Johnny Cash from the southern state of Arkansas. It’s a cool southern boys’ name that balances traditional roots with a sense of individuality and flair. 114. Logan. With its roots in Gaelic meaning “little hollow,” Logan combines natural beauty with a strong and rugged appeal. 115. Maverick. Originally meaning “independent, nonconformist,” Maverick has come to represent individuality and boldness. As a cool southern boys’ name, it suggests a free spirit and an adventurous heart, perfect for a child who is destined to stand out from the crowd.

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From trendy to preppy, here are even more cool southern boy names:

Biblical Southern Boy Names

Check out our list of biblical southern boy names, where each one carries a deep-rooted history and some divine inspiration. From the timeless tales of the good book, names like Elijah and Noah blend the soulful spirit of the South with the enduring stories of faith and hope. These biblical boy names names aren't just a nod to the past; they’re a bridge to a future filled with promise and light.

127. Abraham. Abraham is a name of profound biblical significance, meaning “father of many” in Hebrew. Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered presidents, shares this biblical southern boys’ name. It holds a special place in the Southern states, reflecting a deep historical resonance. 128. Adam. According to the Bible, Adam was the first man created. The name means “man” or “to be red,” reflecting the earth from which he was formed. 129. Benjamin. The meaning of Benjamin is perfect if you’re looking for a southern name for your baby boy as it means “son of the south” or “son of the right hand” in Hebrew. It has been borne by notable figures in American history, including Benjamin Franklin, making it a name of enduring legacy and appeal in the Southern states. 130. Elijah. Elijah is a Hebrew boys’ name meaning “My God is Yahweh.” Elijah was a prophet who performed miracles and advocated for the worship of one God. 131. Gabriel. Meaning “God is my strength” in Hebrew, Gabriel is known as the angel who announced the birth of Jesus. This angel name for boys carries a divine grace and strength, with a genteel quality that aligns well with Southern naming traditions. 132. Jacob. With the meaning “supplanter” or “may God protect,” Jacob is a pivotal figure in the Bible known for his complex narrative. This boys’ name has woven its way through American and Southern heritage, symbolizing tradition and the enduring strength of faith. 133. James. A name of royal and biblical stature meaning “supplanter,” James is one of the most popular boy names in the United States, reflecting a versatile and timeless charm. Its popularity in the South can be attributed to its rich history and numerous notable namesakes. 134. Jesse. Jesse means “gift” in Hebrew, and was the father of King David in the Bible. This southern boys’ name is famously associated with the American outlaw Jesse James, a figure entwined with the lore of the Old West and the complexities of post-Civil War America. 135. Joseph. Meaning “He will add” in Hebrew, Joseph is a biblical figure known for his remarkable life of perseverance and ascendancy. 136. Jude. Jude means “praise” in Hebrew and is associated with one of the apostles and the author of the Epistle of Jude. 137. Luke. Meaning “light-giving” in Greek, Luke is the name of the author of the third Gospel and the Acts in the New Testament. It’s also the name of country singer Luke Bryan (born in Georgia) and singer Luke Combs (born in North Carolina). Check out our complete list of baby names that mean “light.” 138. Noah. A name meaning “rest, comfort” in Hebrew, Noah is celebrated for his faithfulness and the story of the ark. 139. Zachary. Meaning “the Lord has remembered” in Hebrew, Zachary is a name that suggests divine favor and remembrance. With its strong biblical roots and the historical significance of President Zachary Taylor, it enjoys a distinguished status among Southern boy names.

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The Bottom Line

We hope you found inspiration in the rich variety and deep-rooted character of these southern baby boy names. From the echoes of the past to the promise of the future, each name carries with it the warmth, strength, and enduring spirit of the South. And while you’re here, check out our meaningful lists of baby names that mean sun, flower names for boys, or discover your little one’s birth flower. Whether you’re pregnant or your little one has just arrived, download the Pampers Club app for rewards on all those diaper purchases.