What is the origin of the name Dakota?

Dakota is a name of Native American origin.

How popular is the name Dakota?

Dakota is currently ranked #272 in the United States and is stable in popularity.

How do you pronounce Dakota?

Dakota is pronounced duh-KOH-tuh.

Back to all names

UnisexNative American

Dakota

duh-KOH-tuh

Popularity

#272

stable

Letters

Syllables

Origin

Native American

Total Births

132,430

Peak Year

#7,700 in 1995

First Recorded

1915

Style

Nature-Inspired, Earthy & Bohemian

Spelling

Moderate spelling

What It Means

From the Dakota tribe, meaning 'friend' or 'ally' in the Dakota language.

Nickname Watch

Kota Cody

Kids pick up nicknames whether parents plan for it or not. Make sure you like the short forms too.

Gender Split

Numerology

The Seeker

Wise, introspective, and spiritual. These names carry depth and a quiet inner power.

Famous Namesakes

Dakota Fanning
American actress.
Dakota Johnson
American actress.

Nicknames

Kota Cody

Similar Names

Sierra River Phoenix Skyler

Personality Traits

adventurousfree-spiritedfriendlyindependent

Want to explore Dakota further?

Get personalized name suggestions or dive deep into the cultural history of Dakota.

Ask AI Consultant Cultural Deep-Dive →

More Names to Explore

View all

Nayeli

Native American

Girl

Meaning

Means 'I love you' in the Zapotec language, spoken in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Modern & Trendy·Earthy & Bohemian·Moderate spelling

Rank #319

rising

Itzel

Native American

Girl

Meaning

Itzel is a Mayan name meaning 'rainbow goddess'. It is associated with medicine and healing.

Earthy & Bohemian·Mythological·Easy to spell

Rank #376

stable

Koda

Native American

Boy

Meaning

Likely derived from a Native American language, potentially meaning 'friend' or 'ally'.

Nature-Inspired·Easy to spell

Rank #2832

rising