Top 10 Best Last Names

Last names carry with them rich histories, cultural significance, and sometimes, just a really cool sound. We've gathered a collection of some of the most popular, unique, and interesting last names out there. These are the names that have resonated with people across generations and continents.

So, what makes a last name the best? Is it the history it evokes? The way it rolls off the tongue? The meaning it holds? Perhaps it's a combination of all these things.

The Top Ten

  1. Parker

    Parker, an occupational surname, originally referred to a gamekeeper or park keeper.

    That is such a good name! I was looking for a last name for a secondary character for my story. But now, I'm going to change the main character's last name to Parker and give the secondary character the name that the main character originally had. Sorry if that was confusing. I don't know how else to explain it.

    I like Parker because of the definition of the name Parker. These names helped me a lot to find a good last name for my Sims game.

    I hope that this site gets a lot of reviews and that people think this site is great. If not, there's something wrong. So, thanks once again.

  2. Black

    Black is a surname of Scottish and English origin, possibly referring to someone with dark hair or complexion.

    I'm writing a Harry Potter fan fiction about a boy named Chet who realizes he is a wizard and goes to Hogwarts. He then meets the Golden Trio and makes friends with them. Anyway, I was going to use Black as Chet's last name, but then I thought that would be confusing as that would mean he would be related to Sirius and the Black family.

    I ended up going with Chet Valentine (which kind of sounds like Cat Valentine) to avoid confusion, but Black would have been my first choice. Love this last name!

    Awesome last name! The main character in my story is called Winter Black, and she's a really shy, mysterious person whom people make fun of.

    I'm going to go on Best Girls Names for a name for the character who tries to reach out to Winter. I'll also check Best Names for Mean Girls to find the perfect name for a mean girl. After I've been on both lists, I'll come back here to find a good surname.

  3. Hunter

    Hunter is a surname of English and Scottish origin, often associated with those who hunted game.

    This is a simple name that adds a twist to a character. To me, it seems like a name that describes a guy who is respectful and caring but has a deeper (and possibly darker) side. It works well as a first name, too.

    I would advise using simple first names to go along with this last name, such as Jace or Daniel. Names like Nathaniel or Dustan don't really match. If you were to use this name for a girl, you might want to shorten it to "Hunt." Some good girl names that would fit are Kirsten Hunt, Evalynn Hunt, or Mallory Hunt.

    I wouldn't suggest alliteration for this last name, unless you shorten it. Hannah Hunt and Hayden Hunt sound better than Hannah Hunter and Hayden Hunter.

  4. Starr

    Starr is an English surname that could originate from the Old English word "steorra," meaning star.

    There's the story of Isaac Starr, a painter who spent his life miserable without his muse. He was depressed, never smiling, laughing, or dancing. Then there's Rachel Diamond, a hopeless romantic. She believed that she could find "the one" but failed.

    Then one day, Rachel and Isaac noticed each other at the bar. Isaac fell for her words and gazed into her shiny hazel eyes. From then on, he was painting every day, while Rachel wrote a romantic novel about their life. She finally finished the novel, but Isaac and Rachel Starr's story was just the beginning. It was all because of the "Starr."

    It seems different and unique in its own way. It inspired me to use it as the surname for the main character in my story. It has made my story pretty good because now the main character's first name, middle name, and last name all start with an S.

  5. Faye

    Faye is a surname of French origin, derived from the word "fée," meaning fairy.

    My amazing character, Pearl Faye, is a princess who was sent away at birth because of the unstable kingdom. Now, at the age of 17, she has been discovered and has to go back to learn the way of a queen.

    She meets a royal guard, Nick, whom she falls in love with almost instantly. She learns, and soon she and Nick rule the kingdom. Sounds kind of dumb, but oh well.

    When I clicked on this website, I was positive it was going to have names like Baker and Smith. You know, stuff that everyone knows. I was not expecting to find cool, mysterious names.

    I am thinking of using the names Alyson and Sam Faye for my twin characters. Love these names. Keep doing what you're doing.

  6. Martinez

    Martinez is a common Spanish surname meaning "son of Martin."

    I was considering changing from my maiden name, Martinez, after my divorce to a totally different one. However, after reading the comments and looking into the meaning of the surname Martinez, I've discovered that if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I found out that Martinez is the patronymic surname for "Son of Martin."

    Martin comes from the Latin name "Martinus," which is a derivative of "Mars," the Roman god of fertility and war. So yeah, it is definitely a badass name! I'm keeping it - back to the basics, Mercedes Jasmine Martinez.

    This is an awesome last name. It has this sudden sexiness to it. I would change my last name to this or just marry someone with this last name. I absolutely adore this name so much. It seems to be number one for a very good reason.

  7. Diamond

    Diamond is an English surname that may have referred to a jeweler or someone who dealt with diamonds.

    I love this last name! It has a hard edge to it, which would immediately give a fictional character a shiny, rock-hard feel. But at the same time, it has a soft, sparkly, delicate feel. It feels like the opposite of an M&M: soft and sparkly on the outside and hard on the inside. Are you getting my vibe?

    Anyway, this name has my vote, and I'm using it as the last name of one of the characters in my book on Wattpad! Find me @writingismylife_

    I love this name! In a story I'm working on, a character's name is Nicolette Diamond. If you're wondering, the two main characters are Halsey Rose and Maggie Greenwood.

    Another character is Kylie King, which is also on this list!

  8. King

    King is a surname that might originally have referred to someone who acted as a king in a play or to someone who worked in a royal household.

    I insisted upon meeting the man who would eventually become my husband when I heard his name: Randal Valiant King, II. Isn't that the strongest, most regal, manly name you've ever heard?

    Now that we're trying for a baby, I've discovered that our last name is a bit difficult to pair with a first name. No nouns work - Cash King sounds like a title loan joint, Lyric King sounds like a recording studio, and Parker King sounds like a valet service. The most tragic is Roman King. That was always one of my favorites since we both love history, especially ancient Roman history, but Roman Valiant King is just too cheesy.

    Regardless, the surname King is quite a powerful one, and it goes well with nearly any traditional first name, like Marilyn Audra-Lee King or Roderick Valiant King.

  9. Smith

    Smith, derived from the Old English word for a metalworker, is one of the most widespread surnames.

    I'm using the name Smith in my story, and it is spectacular. My character's name is Serenity Smith. This name is an Australian/Oceania name, which I know because I'm Australian. The name has a nice ring to it and also derives from blacksmiths in the 13th century.

    So, if you were a blacksmith, your last name would be Smith. I think this is the number-one name to go with. When you are creating stories, Rodriguez and Martinez aren't too popular and should be ranked 4th or 5th, although they are great, exotic, and Spanish names.

    I'm writing a book that has a character named Sara Smith. She is the girlfriend (no, friend, in the beginning) of the main character, James Wendel. Smith goes with everything.

    I would vote for my last name, but it wasn't on here. WAH! It's not that common, and it's not an English name either. Smith is very common and English, although it's not as good as my surname. I love my whole name!

    Even so, I don't think this list should be a thing because it is hurtful to those whose names are not included here, like mine. There is no "best name," people. Seriously.

  10. Montana

    Montana, of Spanish and Italian origin, means "mountain" and is also the name of a U.S. state.

    I see how this is a great last name you have. Joe Montana (49er), a state (Montana), and Tony Montana (Al Pacino in Scarface) are all named after you.

    One of my old best friends used to have this name. We don't talk much now, but we have had so many fun memories together.

    Montana is a beautiful name. When I was moving to Portland, we drove through Montana, and hearing that name reminds me of it.

    11. The Newcomers
  11. ?

    Lyndon

    Awesome last name! I am writing a book, and the main character's last name is Lyndon.

    I'm thinking Selene Lyndon. I'm writing a book, and I think that would be perfect.

    Reminds me of Wuthering Heights. Love Catherine.

  12. ?

    Alvarez

    Quite unique. Pleasant to say and very uncommon to hear.

    I'm quite happily using it for two of my characters, Sabre and Shadow Alvarez. These two now have a fitting name for their personalities.

    Yesss, thank you so much! Just named my character Cameron Alvarez!

    13. The Contenders

  13. Westbrook

    Westbrook is an English surname indicating someone who lived near a western stream or brook.

    Westbrook sounds like a really posh name. I'm writing a story about two rich twin sisters: one is tomboyish, and the other is girly. The tomboyish one is Stella Westbrook, though she changes her name to Amy Smith when she starts attending the local high school. The girly one is called Natalie Westbrook. She doesn't change her name.

    People eventually find out that they're sisters and that they're rich. Everyone already knew that about Natalie, but they didn't know it about Stella/Amy. Then the sisters' relationship starts falling apart. Stella/Amy declares that she hates being Natalie's sister, but Natalie only wanted to be friends with Stella/Amy.

  14. Angel

    Angel is a surname of Greek origin, derived from the word for messenger or angel.

    Sounds mysterious and dark, yet sweet and innocent when you're really guilty of murder. Ever read Confessions of a Murder Suspect? The main characters' last name is Angel, and they are charged with murdering their own parents. Best book ever.

    I love that last name too! It reminds me of the actor Asher Angel. Also, thanks for this suggestion. You helped me find the last name for my character, Alex Angel, for my story.

    It sounds like it could be the last name of someone who's really tough but sweet at the same time. I might use it for my book. Thanks for the inspiration!

  15. Rose

    Rose is a surname of English and German origin, often associated with the flower.

    I love this last name! Who wouldn't? It's after one of the most beautiful flowers ever, in my opinion. It's just so classical, but at the same time modern. So cute for anything: surname, middle name, and last name!

    This is my surname. In some cases, it's a nice last name because at least people can pronounce it, and it doesn't sound wrong or anything. On the other hand, I don't like it because I am literally the opposite of a rose.

    I love the name. It has a meaning of grace and beauty. Not only that, but it is used commonly in a story most of us know, Sleeping Beauty. You hear it a lot in the movie. Briar Rose is what the fairies call her, anyway.

  16. Valentine

    Valentine is a surname of Latin origin derived from the name Valentinus, meaning strong or healthy.

    Thanks for the tip! My character is called Roxy Valentine. It's about a girl who slips out of the popular group and teams up with her soulmate, a new girl named Alison Wilcox. They become such best friends until Alison has to move away. Roxy doesn't know why. She runs away to find Alison, only to find that she is dying of lung cancer and only has a month left to live. I think I'll end it with Roxy finding out her mum's pregnant after Alison dies, and they call the baby Alison.

    I like this name. I am writing a story about a set of twins, where the less popular twin falls for the gothic/cowboy guy who everyone in town doesn't really talk to much. His name is Alexander Valentine. He does not get into trouble at all, and he falls for the twin. Her name is Naomi Lee Scott, and her sister's name is Noelle Lillian Scott. What do you guys think? Anything else to add?

  17. Johnson

    Johnson is a patronymic surname meaning "son of John."

    Johnson just fits with every name! Literally, every name! Right now, the name of the character in my book is Evelyn Johnson. It sounds as good as it would with any other name!

    For example, Sarah Johnson, Rachel Johnson, Mark Johnson, or even John Johnson.

    I had a sixth-grade teacher with the surname of Johnson. She was the best. Thinking about her again just leaves me in tears. She is honestly the BEST teacher ever, and I'm not exaggerating.

    The first name I went with was Christopher. I found this last name, and it pulled me in. Christopher Johnson - doesn't that just sound cool?

  18. Dragonslayer

    Dragonslayer is a dramatic and rare surname likely inspired by mythological tales of dragon-slaying heroes.

    I'm writing a book and the girl's name is Avril Dragonslayer. She has a brother named Hunter Dragonslayer. She has dark brown, almost black hair and eyes, and she is tan and beautiful!

    I'm not done writing it yet, but go to Wattpad.com and type XKassyLoveX to see if it's done. The title is Forbidden Love because she loves her teacher... or she might love her brother. Who knows? I just started writing this book. Laugh out loud.

    Oh my gosh, I really, really, really wish this was my last name! It is so fabulous! When I was nine years old, I had the most incredible music teacher, and we played a song called "Dragonslayer" that I loved.

    I love it because it's so cool and it reminds me of my old music teacher.

  19. Rodriguez

    Rodriguez is a common Spanish surname meaning "son of Rodrigo."

    This last name is just AWESOME! I love it, love it, love it! I'm someone who creates lots of random stories in my head, and half the time, the characters' last name is Rodriguez. Does Marisol Rodriguez sound good?

    This is the best last name I have ever heard. It was my grandmother's last name, and I wish it were mine. It has a lot of flavor and is very exotic. My grandmother is from Mexico, and she said even there, it is a very desired last name.

    It means Son of Rodrig with Germanic roots. Long ago, the name traveled from Germanic regions to Spain and Portugal, and from there to the Americas. It originates from very prolific families.

  20. Carter

    Carter is an occupational surname for someone who transported goods by cart.

    Peggy Carter from Captain America! I LOVE Captain America. I read the comics all the time! I love Bucky too! He's my favorite, especially when Sebastian Stan plays him. So hot.

    I can't explain why, but I've always liked this surname. Carter. Mrs. Carter. There are worse surnames to have, I suppose.

    Natalie Carter. I'm not sure why, but it brings that plainness and schoolgirlishness to a rather glamorous first name. Very good, though!

  21. Levy

    Levy is a Jewish surname of Hebrew origin, often denoting a descendant of the biblical Levites.

    Okay, so I'm going to say it. My best friend who is a boy is Levy. He is so cool. We both love Harry Potter (all dibs on Hermione Granger), and we have so much fun together. So, this should definitely be a good last name.

    I actually love this as a last name. I'm writing a story at the moment, and I think I'm going to use it in it. Elliot Levy sounds pretty good, I guess? Anyway, read my stories on Wattpad. My username is @shnoodles.

    I really like Levi as a first name, but it actually doesn't sound so bad as a last name either! Charlotte Levi could be my character's name. I like that.

  22. Silva

    Silva is a Portuguese and Spanish surname meaning "forest" or "woodland."

    I just think it's different but not too crazy as to be unrealistic. It's definitely a pretty last name.

    My surname is Silva too, haha. It's quite a popular surname in places like Brazil and Portugal.

    My dad is from Brazil, so my last name is Silva. It's very popular in Brazil and Portugal.

  23. Tomlinson

    Tomlinson is an English patronymic surname meaning "son of Tomlin," a diminutive of Thomas.

    I love Louis Tomlinson! He's great! "I like girls who eat carrots!" This name is a great last name. I know a substitute teacher with this name, and then there's Louis, but that's it!

    Tomlinson is such an exotic surname, and I'm not just saying that because of Louis. Personally, I would love to carry that name.

    Also, the nickname Tommo is really lovely and fun to me.

    I love how the name is so original. I love Louis! I have never heard of anybody else with the last name Tomlinson. I wish I could be Mrs. Tomlinson one day.

  24. Kirby

    Kirby is an English surname derived from various places named Kirby, meaning "church settlement."

    Kirby is awesome - the video game. And my favorite TV show as a kid, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, had a spinoff called The Suite Life on Deck, and there was someone named Mr. Kirby!

    This is literally my last name. I came to this site to find names for my novel, and when this popped up, I was surprised. It means "church settlement" and "dark son."

    I met a drummer for a Christian band (Cloverton, check them out) last year at summer camp. His name was Kirby. I think it's awesome, and I'm actually using it in the book I'm writing.

  25. Wilder

    Wilder is an English surname that might indicate someone living in a wild or untamed area.

    Beautiful name. I am married, and now my name is "Alejandra Wilder." I like it because it goes with my personality, but my husband and I want to change it because his ridiculous ex does not want to take it off, and that is why we do not want to use it anymore. What do you think about this?

    I read a book called Water and the Wild. It was really good. It's my favorite book, and three of the main characters' last name was Wilder. I suggest that you read this book, and if you want to use this last name, you should use it in a sort of magical setting.

  26. Winchester

    Winchester is an English surname from a place name meaning "Roman fort associated with the tribe called the Venta."

    I saw the name Winchester, and in my head, I screamed, Dean and Sam Winchester! I would use the last name in my book, but I already have a character named Dean, so I don't know if that would be stealing a character from a show or not, and he is the older brother of the main character, Autumn. I picture my character more like my little brother, though, because his middle name is Dean.

    Winchester, as in Sam and Dean. As in the best hunters ever, who go with a really cool angel called Castiel. Dean Winchester, the drop-out with 6 bucks to his name, the hottie big bro who cares a lot for his brother and his angel and is righteous and cool. And Sam Winchester, the ex-blood junkie, cute and so good, and the season finale.

  27. Swift

    Swift is an English surname originally given as a nickname to someone quick or speedy.

    This is a beautiful last name. It reminds me of wind or flowing water. It just kind of sounds nature-related, not because of Taylor Swift. I like Taylor Swift, but it's annoying that everyone immediately connects this to Taylor Swift. Like, hello, why does no one flip out at the last name Goodall? Or Hamilton? It's not like Taylor Swift has done something big and life-changing for the world.

    I love the last name Swift, not just because of Taylor Swift, but because it sounds so smooth and graceful. The problem is that if you tried to use it in a book, for example, the readers would most likely be like, The author just got it from Taylor Swift, or, Hey! Remember Taylor Swift? and will never get it out of their heads.

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