Origin & Meaning of the Haley Surname
What does the last name Haley mean?
The surname Haley carries the meaning "From a meadow or clearing." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 37,858 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Haley ranks as the #917 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Haley come from?
The Haley surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Haley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Haley trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Haley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #917 |
| US Count (2010) | 37,858 |
| Per 100K People | 12.83 |
| First Letter | H |
Ethnic Distribution of Haley
According to the US Census, the Haley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 37,858 Americans with the Haley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 81.27% |
| Black | 13.23% |
| Hispanic | 2.24% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.54% |
| Native American | 0.72% |
| Two or More Races | 2.0% |
Popularity of Haley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Haley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Haley surname increased by 1,425 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Haley
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