1 in 5 Americans judge others on first names alone

First impressions may start long before a handshake — One in five Americans say they judge others by their first name alone, according to new research.

The survey of 2,000 Americans found that 18% of those polled said they’ll make assumptions about someone based entirely on a name they more than likely didn’t even choose themselves.

Gen Z was the most likely generation to jump to conclusions when hearing someone’s name for the first time (29%), followed closely by millennials (21%).

When asked to write out which first name carries the most negative connotations in their eyes, a few familiar winners emerged.

Karen was the clear frontrunner as the most-judged first name, receiving significantly more mentions than any other name in the survey.

Chad was a distant second, followed by Donald, John and Damien among the most commonly cited names.

The findings also highlighted the complex relationship many Americans have with their own first names.

According to the survey, 42% don’t feel they embody the spirit of their first name. Younger Americans, however, are more likely to feel a strong connection to theirs.

Nearly half of Gen Z respondents (44%) and 40% of millennials said they strongly identify with their first name, compared to 31% of Gen Xers and just 29% of baby boomers.

Some would even take steps to get rid of it completely, with one five Americans admitting they wish they could change their first name.

Gen Z stood out again as the most likely to feel this way, with 32% saying they would change their name.

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When asked what they would choose instead, a few names consistently rose to the top. Jessica was the most popular alternative, followed by Amira, Caroline, Lisa and Natalie.

But not all choices were traditional. Some respondents opted for far more unconventional names, including “SirCartier” and the fiery “Furnace.”

Other unique picks that emerged from the data included “Sapling” and “Legacy.”

10 WILDLY UNIQUE FIRST NAMES PEOPLE WOULD SWITCH TO

• Quandale dingle
• SirCartier
• Purple Shay
• Vbeezy
• Furnace
• Sapling
• Legacy
• Cipher
• Indigo
• Kha’Leah

Research methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans; the survey was administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Jun 11, 2026 - Jun 17, 2026. A link to the questionnaire can be found here.

To view the complete methodology as part of AAPOR’s Transparency Initiative, please visit the Talker Research Process and Methodology page.