How common is the name Rita Rivera?

The first name Rita is shared by approximately 316K people worldwide. The surname Rivera is among the most recognizable in its region of origin.

Where is the name Rita most common?

The name Rita is most prevalent in United States and surrounding regions.

When was Rita most popular?

The name Rita reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.

Rita Rivera — Name Meaning, Origin & Statistics

Rita Rivera is a name combining English origins, bringing together "pearl" (Rita) with "from the riverbank" (Rivera). The first name Rita is a feminine given name of English origin. A name of English origin (Old English / Anglo-Saxon). Its precise etymology is not fully documented, but it belongs to the broad tradition of English names found across many cultures. The surname Rivera from Spanish Rivera/Ribera (riverbank, shore). Very common in Spain and Latin America. Rita is a well-known first name, carried by approximately 316K people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Rita reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: Rita

Meaning: pearl

English

A name of English origin (Old English / Anglo-Saxon). Its precise etymology is not fully documented, but it belongs to the broad tradition of English names found across many cultures.

Surname: Rivera

Meaning: from the riverbank

Spanish

From Spanish Rivera/Ribera (riverbank, shore). Very common in Spain and Latin America.

Geographic Distribution

The first name Rita is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 52%

United Kingdom 27%

Australia 12%

Canada 9%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name Rita by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s

1910s

1920s

1930s

1940s

1950s

1960s

1970s

1980s

1990s

2000s

2010s

2020s

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Rita Rivera:

4

Expression Number

Stability and hard work. Represents practicality, reliability and dedication — someone who builds solid foundations.

7

Soul Urge Number

Wisdom and introspection. A deep, analytical mind drawn to philosophy, spirituality and the search for truth.

6

Personality Number

Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name Rita?: The first name Rita originates from English. A name of English origin (Old English / Anglo-Saxon). Its precise etymology is not fully documented, but it belongs to the broad tradition of English names found across many cultures.
How common is the name Rita Rivera?: The first name Rita is shared by approximately 316K people worldwide. The surname Rivera is among the most recognizable in its region of origin.
Where is the name Rita most common?: The name Rita is most prevalent in United States and surrounding regions.
When was Rita most popular?: The name Rita reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.