Preston: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced PRES-tuhn · 2 syllables
Preston means “priest; settlement”, from English.
From Old English preost (“priest”) + tun (“settlement”). Doublet of Prestatyn.
- Meaning
- priest; settlement
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- PRES-tuhn
- US rank (2025)
- #299
- US babies a year
- about 1,270 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2000
- Style
- Classic
How popular is Preston?
Preston was the #299 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,141 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 55% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2000.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #299 |
| England & Wales | #436 |
| Scotland | #476 |
| Northern Ireland | #392 |
| Ireland | #551 |
| Canada | #436 |
| Australia | #600 |
How old are people named Preston?
Half of US adults named Preston are older than 31; most are between 19 and 74. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Preston
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
Questions about Preston
What does the name Preston mean?
Preston means “priest; settlement”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Preston?
Preston is pronounced PRES-tuhn.
How popular is the name Preston?
Preston was the #299 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,141 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 55% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2000.
How old are people named Preston?
Half of US adults named Preston are older than 31. Most are between 19 and 74.