Kalayah
How to say it: kuh-LY-uh · /kəˈlaɪə/
Modern American invention blending Kaya and Aaliyah - no traditional etymology, chosen for melodic sound.
Kalayah was the 916th most popular girls’ name in the United States in 2025, given to 129 babies (Social Security Administration). The 2020s are its busiest decade so far, its births are up 2.4-fold in ten years, and it is projected to rise to #720 by 2030.
Updated · SSA 2025 data, published May 2026 · How we compute these figures
Key facts
| Rank among girls’ names, 2025 | #916 |
|---|---|
| Babies born in 2025 | 129 |
| Share of births | 1 in 13,930 |
| Peak decade | 2020s |
| Change over 10 years | ×2.4 |
| Projected rank for 2030 (estimate) | #720 |
Sources: Social Security Administration (SSA). How we compute these figures.
Its life, decade by decade
Belonging to the latest wave of inventions, Kalayah lacks older roots. The 2020s stand as its peak to date, with more growth expected ahead.
What goes with it
Melodic and flowing with soft and crisp textures and a creative glow. Zariyah aligns beautifully in style.
Nicknames
- Kala
- Layah
- Kay
Honouring a Kalayah in the family
In the classroom
In a class of 25 children born in 2025, the chance that another child is called Kalayah is about under 1 in 200.
Around the world
This spelling is used in English.
Keep exploring
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