Most Common Last Names in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you curious about the most prevalent surnames in the United States? This article delves into the fascinating world of American last names, exploring their origins and meanings. From classic family names to modern trends, we'll uncover the stories behind the most common last names in the USA. Get ready to discover the rich tapestry of heritage woven into the fabric of American society.
1. Smith: A common occupational surname for blacksmiths, referring to someone who works with metal.
2. Johnson: Derived from the name John, meaning "God is gracious."
3. Williams: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of William," which means "resolute protector."
4. Brown: A descriptive surname referring to someone with brown hair or complexion.
5. Jones: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of John," referring to "God is gracious."
6. Miller: An occupational surname for someone who grinds grain into flour.
7. Davis: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of David," which means "beloved."
8. Garcia: A Spanish surname, meaning "little warrior" or "bear."
9. Rodriguez: A Spanish surname, meaning "son of Rodrigo," which means "famous ruler."
10. Wilson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Will," which means "resolute protector."
11. Moore: A descriptive surname referring to someone who lives near a moor or bog.
12. Taylor: An occupational surname for someone who makes or repairs clothes.
13. Anderson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Andrew," which means "manly" or "strong."
14. Thomas: A biblical name, meaning "twin."
15. Jackson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Jack," which means "God is gracious."
16. White: A descriptive surname referring to someone with fair skin or hair.
17. Harris: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Harry," which means "home ruler."
18. Martin: A Latin name, meaning "warlike."
19. Thompson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Thomas," meaning "twin."
20. Martinez: A Spanish surname, meaning "son of Martin," meaning "warlike."
21. Robinson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Robin," meaning "bright fame."
22. Clark: An occupational surname for a scribe or scholar.
23. Lewis: A German name, meaning "famous warrior."
24. Lee: A descriptive surname referring to someone who lives near a meadow or clearing.
25. Walker: An occupational surname for someone who walks or travels.
26. Hall: A descriptive surname referring to someone who lives near a hall or large house.
27. Allen: A German name, meaning "noble kind."
28. Young: A descriptive surname referring to someone who is young in age.
29. Hernandez: A Spanish surname, meaning "son of Hernando," meaning "strong warrior."
30. King: An occupational surname for a ruler.
31. Wright: An occupational surname for someone who makes things, especially furniture or tools.
32. Lopez: A Spanish surname, meaning "wolf."
33. Hill: A descriptive surname referring to someone who lives near a hill.
34. Scott: A Scottish name, meaning "wealthy" or "brave."
35. Green: A descriptive surname referring to someone who lives near a green field or forest.
36. Adams: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Adam," which means "man."
37. Baker: An occupational surname for someone who bakes bread.
38. Gonzalez: A Spanish surname, meaning "son of Gonzalo," meaning "famous fighter."
39. Nelson: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Neil," meaning "champion."
40. Carter: An occupational surname for someone who transports goods by cart.
41. Mitchell: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Michael," meaning "who is like God?"
42. Perez: A Spanish surname, meaning "Peter."
43. Roberts: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Robert," meaning "bright fame."
44. Turner: An occupational surname for someone who turns wood or metal.
45. Phillips: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Philip," meaning "lover of horses."
46. Campbell: A Scottish name, meaning "crooked mouth."
47. Parker: An occupational surname for someone who keeps a park or enclosure.
48. Evans: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Evan," meaning "God is gracious."
49. Edwards: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Edward," meaning "wealthy guardian."
50. Collins: A patronymic surname, meaning "son of Colin," meaning "victory."