The surname Khan could overtake Smith to become the most common surname among newborn babies in England and Wales by 2027, according to an analysis of official statistics reported by British newspaper The Telegraph.
Figures from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that 4,102 babies registered in England and Wales in 2025 had the surname Smith, compared with 3,772 babies named Khan. The difference between the two surnames narrowed to just 330 registrations.
The report highlights a significant shift in naming patterns over the past three decades. Smith has traditionally been one of the most common surnames in Britain, but its popularity among newborns has declined. Meanwhile, Khan has more than doubled in popularity over the same period.
According to the analysis, Smith registrations have fallen by an average of around 4% annually, while Khan has recorded an average annual increase of approximately 1.9%. If these trends continue, Khan could take the top position in 2027.
Researchers say changing migration patterns and differences in birth rates among population groups may help explain the shift. Khan is a common surname across South Asia, including Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
Other surnames, including Ahmed, Ali, Hussain, Singh and Patel, have also risen in the rankings. In contrast, several historically common British surnames have become less frequent among newborns.
The findings reflect changing demographics and cultural diversity in modern Britain. However, the prediction is based on recent trends and is not a confirmed outcome.
Importantly, the figures concern surnames recorded for newborns in England and Wales, not the most common surnames among the entire UK population. Khan’s potential rise to the top would mark a notable change in the country’s naming trends.
