Graham vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Graham

Boy #129 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"gravelly homestead"

Origin: Old English

Cultural Roots

Scottish English American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#129
Total SSA Count
2,789
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Gray, Grey

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Graham →

James

Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

Cultural Roots

English Scottish Biblical

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#5
Total SSA Count
11,793
Syllables
1
Formality
Formal
Nicknames
Jim, Jimmy, Jamie

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for James →

Popularity Comparison

Graham Rank #129
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #129 for Graham.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Graham ___

  • Graham James
  • Graham William
  • Graham Henry
  • Graham Thomas
  • Graham Reid
  • Graham Cole

James ___

  • James Alexander
  • James William
  • James Thomas
  • James Edward
  • James Henry
  • James Patrick

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Graham

Elliot Nora Fiona Duncan Callum

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

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 Graham or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Graham at #129 in the United States.

What do Graham and James mean?

Graham means "gravelly homestead" (Old English origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Graham and James boy or girl names?

Graham is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Graham ← Full profile: James Browse all baby names