Most Common Last Name in the US: A Comprehensive List

Are you curious about the most common last names in the United States? This comprehensive list explores the top last names in the country, providing a fascinating glimpse into American demographics and ancestry. From classic surnames to more unique ones, discover the origins and meanings behind these widely held names.
1. Smith: Meaning "blacksmith" or "one who works with metal," this surname is of Anglo-Saxon origin, reflecting the importance of metalworking in medieval times.

2. Johnson: Derived from the Old English name "John," meaning "God is gracious," this surname is a patronymic, indicating a son of John.

3. Williams: Another patronymic surname, meaning "son of William," from the Germanic name "Wilhelm," which combines "will" and "helm" (protection).

4. Brown: This surname is of English origin, referring to someone with brown hair or complexion.

5. Jones: A patronymic surname derived from the biblical name "John," meaning "God is gracious."

6. Miller: This surname indicates someone who worked as a miller, grinding grain into flour.

7. Davis: A patronymic surname derived from the Welsh name "Dafydd," meaning "beloved."

8. Garcia: A Spanish surname meaning "little bear," it is a common name in Latin America and the United States.

9. Rodriguez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Rodrigo," a common name in Latin America and the United States.

10. Wilson: This surname is of English origin, meaning "son of William."

11. Moore: This surname is of English origin, referring to someone who lived near a moorland, an open area of high ground.

12. Taylor: This surname is of English origin, meaning "one who makes or cuts cloth."

13. Anderson: A patronymic surname meaning "son of Andrew," a name of Greek origin meaning "manly."

14. Thomas: A surname of Hebrew origin, meaning "twin," it is often a patronymic meaning "son of Thomas."

15. Jackson: A patronymic surname meaning "son of Jack," a nickname for John.

16. White: This surname is of English origin, referring to someone with fair hair or complexion.

17. Harris: This surname is of English origin, meaning "son of Harry," a nickname for Henry.

18. Martin: This surname is of Latin origin, meaning "warlike" or "dedicated to Mars, the god of war."

19. Thompson: A patronymic surname meaning "son of Tom," a nickname for Thomas.

20. Martinez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Martin."

21. Robinson: This surname is of English origin, meaning "son of Robin," a nickname for Robert.

22. Clark: This surname is of English origin, meaning "scribe" or "clerk."

23. Lewis: This surname is of Welsh origin, meaning "famous warrior."

24. Lee: This surname is of English origin, meaning "clearing in a forest."

25. Walker: This surname is of English origin, meaning "one who walks or travels."

26. Hall: This surname is of English origin, meaning "a large building or dwelling."

27. Allen: This surname is of English origin, meaning "handsome" or "noble."

28. Young: This surname is of English origin, meaning "youthful."

29. Hernandez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Hernando," a variation of the name Fernando.

30. King: This surname is of English origin, meaning "ruler of a country."

31. Wright: This surname is of English origin, meaning "craftsman" or "artisan."

32. Lopez: A Spanish surname meaning "wolf."

33. Hill: This surname is of English origin, meaning "someone who lives on a hill."

34. Scott: This surname is of Anglo-Saxon origin, meaning "from the wooded country."

35. Green: This surname is of English origin, meaning "someone who lives near a green area."

36. Adams: A patronymic surname meaning "son of Adam," the first man in the Bible.

37. Baker: This surname is of English origin, meaning "one who bakes bread."

38. Gonzalez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Gonzalo," a name of Germanic origin meaning "warfare."

39. Nelson: A patronymic surname meaning "son of Neil," a name of Irish origin meaning "champion."

40. Carter: This surname is of English origin, meaning "one who transports goods by cart."