First name trends in Ingolstadt: Creative, gender-neutral and popular!

First name trends in Ingolstadt: Creative, gender-neutral and popular!

For many parents, choosing a first name is one of the first and most important decisions they make for their newborn. In the past, the choice was often limited by family traditions, but today the options are almost unlimited. After Augsburger Allgemeine The trend is clearly towards creative and gender-neutral names. Reinhard Rauscher, who has headed the registry office in Ingolstadt since 2002, confirms that parents are increasingly relying on individual names.

In 2024, around 3,000 births were registered in Ingolstadt, with a total of around 1,200 different first names given. The name Maximilian is particularly popular, being the most common boy's name with 30 mentions. Anna is still very popular with girls - last year she was awarded 19 times. As Rauscher describes, unusual names like Fanta were also given, while parents were simultaneously experimenting with short, traditional and gender-neutral first names.

Creativity without limits

The 1968 change in the law allows parents to choose first names as long as they do not endanger the child's well-being. Another important finding: The registry office has not rejected a name for years as long as it is recognizable as a first name. For creative minds there are hardly any limits when choosing a name. Rauscher emphasizes that if there are more than five first names, a line should be drawn - four first names were given for eight children.

Current trends show that parents are placing more and more value on phone-friendly names. Short and memorable sounds are required: For example, names like Leon, Leni, Emmi, Paul and Mia are extremely popular. Particularly traditional names such as Ludwig, Anton or Johanna are also holding steady and offer a nice selection for nostalgic parents.

The influence of celebrities

Another exciting aspect is the influence of celebrities on the choice of name. Names like Kevin gained popularity in the early 2000s with the film Home Alone. Celebrities from film and television have also caused enthusiasm and inspiration in recent years.

Anyone who thinks that the freedom to choose a name has no consequences is seriously mistaken. Changing your first name as an adult requires convincing justification and should be approached carefully. The registry office recommends thinking carefully before choosing a creative name to avoid confusion. Reinhard Rauscher, himself happy with his name, gives the example that there is no risk of confusion - a consideration that many parents should also consider.

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