Emma vs Isla

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Emma

Girl #2 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"strength"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English German French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#2
Total SSA Count
13,485
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Em, Emmy

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Emma →

Isla

Girl #35 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"island"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic from Islay island in Scotland

Cultural Roots

Scottish Spanish English Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#35
Total SSA Count
5,367
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Izzy

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Isla →

Popularity Comparison

Emma Rank #2
Isla Rank #35

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #35 for Isla.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Emma ___

  • Emma Rose
  • Emma Grace
  • Emma Jane
  • Emma Louise
  • Emma Kate
  • Emma Marie

Isla ___

  • Isla Grace
  • Isla Rose
  • Isla Mae
  • Isla Kate
  • Isla Jean
  • Isla Claire

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Isla

Callum Finn Nora Fiona Rory

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Emma or Isla more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Isla at #35 in the United States.

What do Emma and Isla mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Isla means "island" (Scottish Gaelic from Islay island in Scotland origin).

Are Emma and Isla boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Isla is primarily a girl name.

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← Full profile: Emma ← Full profile: Isla Browse all baby names