Hope vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

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

Hope Rank #317
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #317 for Hope.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Hope ___

  • Hope Elizabeth
  • Hope Marie
  • Hope Grace
  • Hope Elise
  • Hope Renee

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 Hope

Faith Joy Grace Charity Caleb

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 Hope or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Hope at #317 in the United States.

What do Hope and James mean?

Hope means "Wish fulfilled". James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Hope and James boy or girl names?

Hope is primarily a girl name. James is primarily a boy name.

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