The most common last name in Minnesota is Johnson.
Common Surnames in Minnesota and Beyond
The surname Johnson holds the top spot as the most frequently occurring last name in Minnesota. This prevalence is often attributed to the significant historical immigration from Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden and Norway, to the state. "Johnson" is a patronymic surname meaning "son of John," a very common naming convention in these regions. Following Johnson, Nelson is identified as the second most common surname in Minnesota, similarly reflecting the strong Scandinavian heritage, as "Nelson" means "son of Nils."
Understanding the most common surnames in a state provides insight into its demographic history and cultural influences. These patterns are not unique to Minnesota; many states have dominant surnames that reflect their unique settlement histories.
Top Surnames in Select U.S. States
While Johnson is prominent in Minnesota, other surnames like Smith and Williams frequently appear as the most common in various parts of the United States. Here's a brief look at some common surnames across a few states:
| State | Most Common Surname | Second Most Common Surname |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | Johnson | Nelson |
| Mississippi | Smith | Johnson |
| Missouri | Smith | Williams |
| Montana | Smith | Anderson |
These trends highlight how historical migration patterns, ancestral roots, and the evolution of family names have shaped the demographic landscape of the United States. For more detailed information on surname prevalence across different regions, resources like Ancestry.com's blog on popular surnames offer comprehensive insights.
