For the first time in decades, newly released U.S. Census data offers a detailed look at the most common first and last names in the country, revealing how America’s demographics have shifted over time. Ethnic Studies and Urban and Regional Planning Professor Álvaro Huerta says the growing prominence of Hispanic surnames reflects the continued growth and strong family-centered culture of Latino communities, often visible in family-owned businesses that proudly display their surnames. While surnames such as Smith, Brown and Johnson have remained dominant for centuries, six Hispanic surnames are now among the nation’s most common: Garcia, Rodriguez, Martinez, Hernandez, Lopez and Gonzalez.

This story was originally broadcast by Telemundo on May 11, 2026.