Houston
Houston is a boy name of Scottish origin meaning “Hugh's town”, pronounced HYOO-stun. It ranked #675 in the United States in 2025, given to 402 babies, and peaked at #319 in 1901. Common nicknames: Hugh, Hou, Tex.
How popular is Houston in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Houston mean, and where does it come from?
Houston is a Scottish place name near Glasgow — Hugh's town, after a twelfth-century landowner called Hugh — that became a surname and crossed to America, where Sam Houston commanded the Texan army at San Jacinto and gave his name to the fourth-largest city in the United States. The name has been in American records since 1880, and most Houstons now are named for the city rather than the man: for a family connection, a football team, or the line about a problem that begins every account of Apollo 13.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Houston
- Sam Houston — commander of the Texan army and first president of the Republic of Texas
- Houston Stewart Chamberlain — British-born writer
- Whitney Houston — American singer and actress
Similar Names to Houston
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Sibling Name Ideas for Houston
Looking for names that pair well with Houston? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Houston mean?
Houston is a boy name of Scottish origin meaning "Hugh's town." Houston is a Scottish place name near Glasgow — Hugh's town, after a twelfth-century landowner called Hugh — that became a surname and crossed to America, where Sam Houston commanded the Texan army at San Jacinto and gave his name to the fourth-largest city in the United States. The name has been in American records since 1880, and most Houstons now are named for the city rather than the man: for a family connection, a football team, or the line about a problem that begins every account of Apollo 13.
How do you pronounce Houston?
Houston is pronounced HYOO-stun. Common variations include Huston, Houstyn.
Is Houston a boy name?
Yes, Houston is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Hugh, Hou, Tex.