Helen vs Laura

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Helen

Girl #424 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"torch, shining light"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

Greek English French Scandinavian American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#424
Total SSA Count
726
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Nell, Nellie, Helly

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
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Laura

Girl #358 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"laurel tree"

Origin: Latin (laurus)

Cultural Roots

English Italian Spanish German American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#358
Total SSA Count
868
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Laur, Laurie, Laurel

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Laura →

Popularity Comparison

Helen Rank #424
Laura Rank #358

Laura is more popular, ranked #358 vs #424 for Helen.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Helen ___

  • Helen Marie
  • Helen Grace
  • Helen Rose
  • Helen Louise
  • Helen Jean
  • Helen Claire

Laura ___

  • Laura Anne
  • Laura Jane
  • Laura Elizabeth
  • Laura Marie
  • Laura Grace
  • Laura Louise

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Helen

Margaret Eleanor Arthur Charles Frances

If you choose Laura

Claire Megan Michael David Susan

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 Helen or Laura more popular?

Laura is more popular, ranked #358 compared to Helen at #424 in the United States.

What do Helen and Laura mean?

Helen means "torch, shining light" (Greek origin). Laura means "laurel tree" (Latin (laurus) origin).

Are Helen and Laura boy or girl names?

Helen is primarily a girl name. Laura is primarily a girl name.

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← Full profile: Helen ← Full profile: Laura Browse all baby names