James vs Salem

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

James Rank #5
Salem Rank #430

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #430 for Salem.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

James ___

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

Salem ___

  • Salem Grace
  • Salem Rose
  • Salem Jane
  • Salem Mae
  • Salem Elise
  • Salem Wren

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Salem

Ember Raven Wren Cypress Zephyr

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 James or Salem more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Salem at #430 in the United States.

What do James and Salem mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Salem means "peaceful, complete" (Hebrew origin).

Are James and Salem boy or girl names?

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

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