Hey y’all! 🌻
So, you’re expecting a baby boy—congratulations! Picking a name for your future bundle of joy is a big decision, and if you’ve got that Southern spirit in you, you may be looking for a name that mirrors that heritage.
Whether you’re a lifelong Southerner or just have an appreciation for Southern culture, this list of 100 best Southern baby boy names is for you.
I’ve gone ahead and gathered names that are not only charming but also rich in history and meaning.
So grab your sweet tea, sit a spell, and let’s dive in!
A
Anderson
- Meaning: Son of Anders or Andrew
- Origin: Scandinavian, English
- Description: Anderson is a strong, masculine name. If you’re a fan of surnames as first names, this might just be your pick.
Atticus
- Meaning: Man of Attica
- Origin: Latin
- Description: The name Atticus evokes a sense of wisdom, morality, and timeless Southern grace. It’s a popular Southern name that has gained attention in recent years not just for its literary connection the character Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird” but also for its elegant sound and ethical undertones.
Austin
- Meaning: Great, magnificent
- Origin: Latin
- Description: A nod to the capital of Texas, Austin is a name that screams Southern charm. It’s great for a little boy who’s bound to be adventurous.
- Meaning: Ruler of the Elves
- Origin: English name
- Description: Avery, although increasingly popular for girls, is a timeless name for boys. The unisex name has a whimsical flair yet maintains its masculine roots.
B
Beau
- Meaning: Handsome
- French Origins
- Description: You can’t get much more Southern than a name that literally means “handsome.” Beau is short, sweet, and to the point.
Bennett
- Meaning: Little blessed one
- Origin: Latin
- Description: Bennett is a classic, sturdy name that’s full of charm. Plus, it’s got a vintage vibe that’s totally endearing.
Blake
- Meaning: Fair-haired, dark
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Blake has a modern vibe but deep-rooted Southern ties. It’s the kind of name that suits a boy who can do both: scale a tree and write poetry.
Brady
- Meaning: Broad meadow
- Origin: Irish
- Description: Brady feels warm and welcoming, just like a broad meadow under the Southern sun.
C
Carter
- Meaning: Cart driver
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Carter is modern but has that old-world Southern gentleman vibe. It’s perfect for your future entrepreneur or craftsman.
Chase
- Meaning: Hunter
- Origin: Old French
- Description: Chase is energetic and bold, making it perfect for a little boy full of vitality and spirit.
Clayton
- Meaning: Town on clay land
- Origin: English
- Description: This southern boy’s name sounds strong and grounded, just like the clay land it refers to.
Colton
- Meaning: From the coal town
- Origin: English
- Description: Colton is the quintessential cowboy name. It’s strong and rugged, and perfectly Southern. It’s a classic southern name.
D
Dallas
- Meaning: Meadow dwelling
- Origin: Scottish
- Description: Dallas is not just a city name but also a popular Southern baby boy name. It’s got that Southern states swagger and is a nod to the American South’s vibrant cities.
Dalton
- Meaning: From the valley town
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Dalton is a name that brings to mind open fields and expansive landscapes, perfect for a boy growing up with a love for nature.
Dawson
- Meaning: Son of David
- Origin: English
- Description: Dawson combines that classic Southern feel with a dash of modernity. “Son of David” lends it biblical roots, making it a meaningful and great name for your new son.
Deacon
- Meaning: Servant, messenger
- Origin: Greek
- Description: A unique name with a Southern flair, Deacon might appeal to parents who want something both spiritually and culturally rich.
E
Earl
- Meaning: Nobleman, warrior
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Earl is a vintage name with a down-to-earth Southern vibe. A short and sweet name that’s stood the test of time.
Elijah
- Meaning: The Lord is my God
- Origin: Hebrew name
- Description: Elijah has strong biblical ties and is popular in parts of the South. It’s a timeless Southern boy name that’ll never go out of style.
Emmett
- Meaning: Universal, complete
- Origin: German
- Description: With German origins, Emmett is a strong, sturdy name that has gained popularity in recent years. It’s a good choice for Southern parents looking for something classic yet current.
F
Finn
- Meaning: Fair or white
- Origin: Irish
- Description: Short, snappy, and with a dash of literary flair thanks to Huckleberry Finn, this name is perfect for a little boy with a sense of adventure.
Forrest
- Meaning: Of the woods
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Forrest evokes images of the great outdoors and encapsulates the Southern love for nature. It’s a name as strong as an old oak tree.
Foster
- Meaning: Forest guardian
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Foster has a nurturing vibe while also feeling robust and outdoorsy.
G
Grayson
- Meaning: Son of the grey-haired one
- Origin: English
- Description: Grayson is a family name for some, and a popular choice for new Southern parents. It’s stylish and modern, yet deeply rooted in tradition.
Gus
- Meaning: Great, venerable
- Origin: Latin, Greek
- Description: Gus is an old-school name with a Southern twist, making it a cute Southern boy name that’s making a comeback.
H
Hank
- Meaning: Ruler of the home
- Origin: German
- Description: Hank is a classic name with a strong, rugged feel. It pays homage to country legends like Hank Williams and makes for a great, straightforward name.
Harrison
- Meaning: Son of Harry
- Origin: English
- Description: Harrison is a stately name that would make any Southern parent proud. It’s an English surname turned first name, adding a touch of sophistication.
Hayes
- Meaning: From the hedged place
- Origin: English
- Description: A unique boy name with a modern twist, Hayes is the perfect name for a baby boy from the South. Plus, it’s short and sweet, just like that Southern sweet tea.
Houston
- Meaning: Hugh’s town
- Origin: Scottish, English
- Description: Houston is rich in Southern heritage and nods to the Texas city known for its spirit and energy. A unique Southern name that’s full of character.
J
Jackson
- Meaning: Son of Jack
- Origin: English
- Description: Jackson has strong family bonds and is also a classic name in the South. It’s as timeless as Johnny Cash’s music.
Jefferson
- Meaning: Son of Jeffrey
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Jefferson evokes images of American history and Southern grandeur, a strong and presidential name for a young boy.
Jasper
- Meaning: Bringer of treasure
- Origin: Persian
- Description: A unique name with a rich Southern heritage, Jasper is the kind of name that adds a bit of mystique and adventure to your family.
Jeremiah
- Meaning: God will exalt
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: This biblical name is not only significant but also has a classic Southern ring to it. Jeremiah is a strong and handsome boy name.
K
Kaden
- Meaning: Companion
- Origin: Arabic
- Description: For those looking for a more modern touch, Kaden is a great option. It’s a popular Southern baby boy name that’s trending upwards.
Knox
- Meaning: Hill
- Origin: Scottish
- Description: Knox is a strong, single-syllable name with a touch of modernity. It’s perfect for parents who want a fresh but meaningful name.
Kyle
- Meaning: Narrow strait, channel
- Origin: Scottish
- Description: Kyle, of Scottish origin, is a simple yet sturdy name for a little boy, offering plenty of options for middle names too.
L
Lance
- Meaning: Land
- Origin: German
- Description: Lance is a name that’s short but powerful, and it’s an easy fit for a Southern family that values strength and character.
Lawson
- Meaning: Son of Lawrence
- Origin: English
- Description: Lawson is a family name that’s been making the rounds as a popular first name. It has a warmth and familiarity that many parents find charming.
Landon
- Meaning: Long hill
- Origin: English
- Description: Perfect for a Southern baby boy, Landon has old English origin and encapsulates that rugged charm you might be looking for.
Levi
- Meaning: Attached, joined
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: Levi is both a timeless and popular name, especially in the United States. It’s a cute Southern name that’s got character.
Lloyd
- Meaning: Grey
- Origin: Welsh
- Description: Lloyd is a distinguished name that conjures an image of wisdom and respect.
M
Mason
- Meaning: Worker in stone
- Origin: English
- Description: A popular name with occupational roots, Mason has that hard work ethic embedded right in the name. A popular choice for many Southern parents.
Mitchell
- Meaning: Who is like God?
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: Mitchell is a sturdy name with a touch of Southern sophistication. It’s an excellent choice for families looking for a name that’s both modern and timeless.
Montgomery
- Meaning: Mountain of the powerful man
- Origin: English
- Description: Whether you’re country music fans or history buffs, Montgomery is a name steeped in Southern roots.
Murphy
- Meaning: Sea warrior
- Origin: Irish
- Description: With its Irish origin, Murphy is a unique Southern name that brings together different cultural ties, making it a beautiful choice for a baby boy.
N
Nash
- Meaning: By the ash tree
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Nash is a strong, single-syllable name that also works as a place name. Great for a little boy who loves the outdoors or has strong family ties to Nashville.
Noah
- Meaning: Rest, comfort
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: Noah is a biblical name that’s seen a surge in popularity. It’s a sweet name that’s beloved across the United States.
Nolan
- Meaning: Champion
- Origin: Irish
- Description: Nolan has a youthful vibrancy, making it a great name for a future little league star or a debate team captain.
O
Oakley
- Meaning: Oak wood or clearing
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Oakley has that rustic, woodland charm that’s just perfect for a Southern boy growing up with a love for nature.
Otis
- Meaning: Wealthy
- Origin: German
- Description: Otis has a retro vibe but is also sophisticated, making it a name that’s sure to stand out.
Owen
- Meaning: Young warrior, noble
- Origin: Welsh
- Description: Owen is a name with a sense of adventure and bravery, making it an excellent choice for a courageous little boy.
P
Preston
- Meaning: Priest’s town
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Preston has an old-world charm and is a lesser-known talent in the realm of Southern boys’ names. It’s classic but not overused.
Parker
- Meaning: Park keeper
- Origin: English
- Description: Parker is an occupational name that’s also a popular Southern baby boy name. Perfect for your little cowboy who loves the great outdoors!
Porter
- Meaning: Gatekeeper
- Origin: Old French
- Description: Porter has a blue-collar charm and a sense of dependability, making it a solid choice for a name.
Q
Quentin
- Meaning: Fifth
- Origin: Latin
- Description: Quentin is a unique boy name that brings a dash of elegance to Southern names, perfect for the fifth member of your family or if you just love the sound!
Quincy
- Meaning: Estate of the fifth son
- Origin: Latin
- Description: Quincy has an old-world charm with a modern twist. It’s unique enough to stand out but not so unusual that it feels out of place.
R
Reid
- Meaning: Red-haired, ruddy complexion
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Reid is simple yet striking, a great choice for parents looking for a name that’s both stylish and easy to remember.
Rhett
- Meaning: Advice
- Origin: Dutch
- Description: Rhett is a charming and timeless Southern boy name. It’s got that Southern gentleman essence, think Rhett Butler in “Gone with the Wind.”
Royce
- Meaning: Son of the king
- Origin: Old French, Old German
- Description: Royce is a name that radiates a royal charm without being overly grandiose. It’s a classy choice for any Southern boy.
Ryder
- Meaning: Knight, mounted warrior
- Origin: English
- Description: Ryder is perfect for parents looking for a name that’s both rugged and refined. Plus, it’s a great name for country music fans, reminding us of Waylon Jennings’ son, Shooter Jennings.
S
Sawyer
- Meaning: Woodcutter
- Origin: English
- Description: Sawyer is another occupational name that has a Southern touch. It brings to mind a young boy who’s not afraid of hard work.
Spencer
- Meaning: Steward, administrator
- Origin: English
- Description: Spencer is a name that’s both sophisticated and practical, ideal for Southern parents who want the best of both worlds for their new son.
Sterling
- Meaning: Little star; of high quality
- Origin: English
- Description: Sterling is polished and has a ring of authenticity. It’s a name that feels as solid as the precious metal it’s named after.
T
Tate
- Meaning: Cheerful
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Tate is concise and joyful, perfect for a happy little boy.
Thaddeus
- Meaning: Heart or courageous
- Origin: Greek
- Description: Thaddeus is a name that oozes Southern grandeur. It’s a noble name for a young boy with big dreams.
Tucker
- Meaning: To torment, to pull about
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Tucker brings to mind a young boy full of energy and curiosity. It’s an adorable name for your little Southern dynamo.
Travis
- Meaning: Crossing, crossroads
- Origin: French
- Description: The name Travis resonates with those who love traveling and exploring new places. With its origins in the concept of a river crossing, it’s perfect for a little boy born to explore.
Troy
- Meaning: Foot soldier
- Origin: Irish, Greek
- Description: Troy has an epic resonance thanks to its ancient Greek connections, but it also feels very at home in the South.
U
Ulysses
- Meaning: Wounded in the thigh
- Origin: Latin
- Description: Though a bit old-fashioned, Ulysses is a strong, classical name. It might appeal to parents who have a love for literature or history.
V
Vance
- Meaning: Thresher
- Origin: Middle English
- Description: Vance is a strong, single-syllable name that brings to mind open fields and the hard work of the farm, perfect for a Southern family with deep roots.
W
Wade
- Meaning: To go, river crossing
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Wade is a great name for families who love the water or who envision a sense of adventure for their little one.
Walker
- Meaning: Worker in cloth
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Walker is another occupational name that’s had enduring popularity. It’s particularly resonant if you have family connections to textile work or simply want a name that nods to artisanal crafts.
Wyatt
- Meaning: Brave in war
- Origin: English
- Description: Wyatt brings to mind the Wild West and evokes a sense of courage and adventure. It’s a cute Southern name for a brave little boy.
Wesley
- Meaning: Western meadow
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Wesley is another of those classic Southern boy names that have stood the test of time. It has a certain air of Southern grace and meadows filled with sunshine.
Weston
- Meaning: From the western town
- Origin: Old English
- Description: Weston brings to mind sunsets over open fields, a perfect fit for a young boy growing up with a sense of adventure.
X
Xavier
- Meaning: The new house
- Origin: Basque/Spanish
- Description: Xavier is a name with a cosmopolitan flair. While not traditionally Southern, it has been embraced by many Southern parents for its uniqueness.
Y
Yates
- Meaning: Gates
- Origin: English
- Description: Yates is a unique Southern name with an old-world charm. It’s a bit off the beaten path but resonant with a sense of history.
York
- Meaning: Yew-tree estate
- Origin: English
- Description: York is short, snappy, and historically rich. It brings to mind not only the city but also an air of sophistication.
Z
Zachary
- Meaning: The Lord has remembered
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: Zachary is a biblical name that’s been popular for decades. It’s a great name that combines traditional with trendy.
Zane
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Origin: Hebrew
- Description: Zane is an increasingly popular name that’s short but packed with personality. It’s a modern favorite among Southern parents.
Well, there you have it, folks—our roundup of the 100 best Southern boy names!
From classic Southern names to unique boy names with Greek and Hebrew origins, we’ve covered a wide terrain that’s as varied as the South itself.
Whether you’re sippin’ sweet tea in South Carolina or dancing to a country singer in New Orleans, these names offer great options to consider.
There’s something here for everyone looking to imbue their new bundle of joy with the spirit and charm of the South.
Until next time, y’all! 😊
Related Posts:
100 Vintage Baby Boy Names You’ll Love
100 Royal Baby Names for Your Little Prince
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.