Isla name meaning, origin and popularity
Meaning, origin, similar names and Australian ranking history.
The name Isla
Story and style
Isla is a nature-inspired and vintage name for girls. It is usually linked with island name, especially Islay, giving it a clear meaning without making the name feel too serious.
For parents, Isla is easy to imagine in everyday life: simple enough for a child, but still polished enough to grow with them. It can stand on its own or sit beside longer related forms such as Ila, Islay. Because Isla is already short, it does not really need a nickname, though Issy can work casually.
At a glance
The quick version
More about Isla
Background notes
Meaning
Isla is most commonly linked with island name, especially Islay. That meaning gives the name a clear little story without making it feel overworked.
Because the meaning is tied to a real-world image, Isla tends to feel more visual and concrete than names with abstract meanings.
Origin
Isla is commonly traced to Scottish place-derived given name. It is associated with Scottish Gaelic or English roots.
What style of name is Isla?
Isla fits with nature-inspired names and gentle vintage choices. It sits naturally beside names like Ava, Ivy, Ella and Amelia: names that feel related in sound, style or popularity.
Nicknames and variations
Isla is often shortened to Issy. Related forms may include Ila, Islay.
Names similar to Isla
If you like Isla, you might also like:
Isla ranking history in Australia
Published national top-100 ranking by year
Isla has been a steady favourite in Australia. It ranked 3rd in 2025, making it one of the most popular girls names in the current data, and appeared in the top 100 every year from 2008 to 2025.
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 3rd |
| 2024 | 4th |
| 2023 | 2nd |
| 2022 | 2nd |
| 2021 | 1st |
| 2020 | 3rd |
| 2019 | 4th |
| 2018 | 6th |
| 2017 | 4th |
| 2016 | 7th |
| 2015 | 13th |
| 2014 | 13th |
| 2013 | 19th |
| 2012 | 16th |
| 2011 | 17th |
| 2010 | 24th |
| 2009 | 28th |
| 2008 | 57th |