Many common last names in Puerto Rico are of Spanish origin, with Sanchez being one of the most prevalent. These surnames reflect the island's rich Spanish heritage and historical ties.
Common Surnames in Puerto Rico
Surnames in Puerto Rico, much like in other Spanish-speaking regions, often reflect ancestry, geographical origins, or historical professions. The most frequently encountered last names on the island include a variety of patronymic surnames (derived from a father's name) and toponymic surnames (derived from a place name).
Here is a list of some of the most common surnames found among the Puerto Rican population, based on their prevalence:
| Surname | Approximate Number of Individuals |
|---|---|
| Sanchez | 128,384 |
| Rivera | 114,777 |
| Diaz | 107,640 |
| Rodriguez | 102,137 |
| Narvaez | 70,764 |
| Burgos | 68,522 |
| Colón | 64,692 |
| Vázquez | 62,659 |
As the table shows, Sanchez leads the list, followed closely by Rivera and Diaz. These names are widespread not only in Puerto Rico but also across many other countries with a history of Spanish influence, highlighting their deep roots in Hispanic culture. Many of these common Spanish surnames have origins tracing back centuries, reflecting various historical migrations and family lineages.
