60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

As you begin your search for the perfect boy name for your son, you’ll come across a lot of Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Spanish, German, Italian, and even some French names that are popular across the globe. 

But today, we’re giving you a break from the basic, everyday names we hear on a daily basis. 

Instead, we’re taking a look at some of our favorite Finnish boy names that either originate from Finland, are historically—or currently—popular in Finland, or capture the beauty behind what Finland is all about.

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For example, you could go with a name like “Finn,” “Finneas,” “Finley,” or “Finnegan,” which might not have Finnish origins, but can be variants of the place name or the people who call Finland home. 

You could also go with a name like “Jaakko,” which is the Finnish form of “Jacob,” or “Heikki,” which is the Finnish form of “Henry.” Place names like Oulu, Rauma, and Lahti also make good Finnish boy names. 

If these are the types of names you want for your son, then stick around because we’re going to highlight 60 more unique and popular Finnish boy names. Hopefully you find the name you’ve been looking for!

Finnish boy names with Finnish origins

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North
MillaF / Shutterstock.com

Did you know Finland can trace its origin history back to 9,000 BCE, towards the end of the last ice age? At that time, it was inhabited by indigenous Finnic tribes who spoke early forms of the Finnish language.

Written records of Finland started appearing in the 12th century, when Finland was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden. It remained in that role until 1809, when Sweden ceded the country to the Russian Empire. 

Finland declared independence on December 6, 1917, which was followed by a Civil War between the “Reds” (pro-Soviet workers) and the “Whites” (conservative forces). The civil war lasted several months. 

Today, Finland is a parliamentary republic known for its high quality of life and education system. 

Now that we know a little bit about the history of Finland, let’s take a look at some popular and unique Finnish boy names that originated in the region thousands of years ago! 

25. Arvo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Arvo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Arvo comes from the Finnish word arvo, which means “value” or “worth.”

Similar-sounding names: Arvid, Aaro, Alvo, Ari, Arto, Armas, Arne, Arland, Arwin, and Ardan.

24. Ismo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Ismo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Ismo is a Finnish form of the name Ismael, which originates from Hebrew, meaning “God will hear.”

Similar-sounding names: Esko, Immo, Iiro, Isko, Iisakki, Iivo, Ilo, Ingo, Ilmo, and Enno.

23. Jaakko

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Jaakko is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Jaakko is the Finnish form of Jacob, which comes from the Hebrew name Yaakov, meaning “supplanter” or “one who follows.”

Similar-sounding names: Jarkko, Jukka, Jari, Jalo, Joakim, Jaap, Jakob, Jaco, Jake, and Janne.

22. Eetu

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Eetu is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Eetu is the Finnish diminutive form of Edvard, derived from Old English elements meaning “wealth” and “guardian.”

Similar-sounding names: Aatu, Eino, Eeli, Eppu, Elmo, Eero, Eerik, Edi, Enok, and Eli.

21. Juhani

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Juhani is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Juhani is a Finnish variant of Johannes, which is derived from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning “God is gracious.”

Similar-sounding names: Juho, Juha, Jussi, Janne, Jorma, Jaakko, Jonne, Juuso, Joonas, and Jukka.

20. Jussi

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Jussi is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Jussi is a Finnish diminutive form of Juhani or Johannes, meaning “God is gracious.”

Similar-sounding names: Juho, Jukka, Jesse, Jami, Jorma, Joel, Jari, Joni, Janne, and Joonas.

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19. Kevat

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Kevat is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Kevat means “spring” in Finnish, referring to the season of renewal and growth.

Similar-sounding names: Keijo, Kauri, Kaapo, Kai, Kimo, Kuutti, Kosti, Kosti, Kari, and Kauko.

18. Mustanen

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Mustanen is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Mustanen is derived from the Finnish word musta, meaning “black,” often used as a surname referring to dark colors or features.

Similar-sounding names: Maunu, Miska, Mielikki, Mauri, Mertsi, Mikko, Miro, Markus, Moisio, and Manni.

17. Aapeli

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Aapeli is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Aapeli is derived from the Hebrew name Abel, meaning “breath” or “vapor.”

Similar-sounding names: Aapo, Aarne, Akseli, Aatos, Altti, Atte, Anssi, Arto, Armas, and Arvi.

16. Aleksanteri

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Aleksanteri is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Aleksanteri is the Finnish form of Alexander, which originates from the Greek Alexandros, meaning “defender of the people.”

Similar-sounding names: Aleksi, Anton, Artturi, Antero, Aaron, Aksel, Ali, Aatos, Aatami, and Aku.

15. Kalevi

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Kalevi is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Kalevi is derived from the Finnish Kalevala, the national epic of Finland, symbolizing heroism and courage.

Similar-sounding names: Kari, Kalle, Kaapo, Kaarle, Kosti, Kai, Keijo, Kimmo, Kerttu, and Kauko.

14. Tapio

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Tapio is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Tapio comes from Finnish mythology, where Tapio is the god of forests, symbolizing nature and wilderness.

Similar-sounding names: Tarmo, Taavi, Taito, Terho, Taisto, Tommi, Tuomo, Tero, Taneli, and Tuukka.

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13. Ilmarinen

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Ilmarinen is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Ilmarinen is a mythological name from the Kalevala, associated with a skilled blacksmith and creator.

Similar-sounding names: Ilmari, Iiro, Inkeri, Iikka, Ismo, Ilpo, Iivo, Ikka, Ilkka, and Ilo.

12. Heikki

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Heikki is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Heikki is the Finnish form of Henry, derived from the Germanic Heimirich, meaning “ruler of the home.”

Similar-sounding names: Henni, Hessu, Hilja, Heli, Helmi, Hilla, Helka, Hannu, Hermanni, and Harri.

11. Kaarlo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Kaarlo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Kaarlo is the Finnish form of Charles, which comes from the Germanic Karl, meaning “man” or “free man.”

Similar-sounding names: Karri, Kaapo, Kauko, Kalle, Kauno, Keijo, Kai, Kimmo, Kalervo, and Kusti.

10. Martti

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Martti is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Martti is the Finnish variant of Martin, derived from the Latin Martinus, meaning “of Mars,” the Roman god of war.

Similar-sounding names: Mertsi, Mauri, Markku, Matti, Moisio, Mauno, Mikael, Mikko, Miro, and Moatti.

9. Oskari

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Oskari is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Oskari is the Finnish form of Oscar, from the Old English Osgar, meaning “God’s spear” or “divine spear.”

Similar-sounding names: Ossi, Olavi, Onni, Otso, Olari, Orri, Osmo, Okko, Onni, and Otso.

8. Paavo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Paavo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Paavo is the Finnish form of Paul, originating from the Latin Paulus, meaning “small” or “humble.”

Similar-sounding names: Panu, Perttu, Petri, Pekka, Pasi, Pave, Pekko, Pirkka, Pauli, and Peka.

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7. Reino

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Reino is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Reino means “king” in Finnish, from the Old Norse rein, meaning “reign” or “kingdom.”

Similar-sounding names: Risto, Rainer, Rami, Riku, Roine, Reijo, Raimo, Rami, Rane, and Renni.

6. Risto

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Risto is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Risto is the Finnish form of Christopher, derived from the Greek Christophoros, meaning “bearer of Christ.”

Similar-sounding names: Riettu, Ruuhva, Ruuben, Ryyfys, Christian, Risjaan, Reinolt, Reska, Riito

5. Tuomas

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Tuomas is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Tuomas is the Finnish form of Thomas, derived from the Aramaic name Ta’oma’, meaning “twin.”

Similar-sounding names: Topias, Timo, Toivo, Tapio, Taneli, Tuomo, Taavi, Taito, Tommi, and Tatu.

4. Uolevi

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Uolevi is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Uolevi is derived from the Old Norse name Óláfr, meaning “ancestor’s descendant” or “heirloom.”

Similar-sounding names: Uuno, Unto, Ukko, Urho, Untamo, Uljas, Unni, Uoti, Usko, and Ukkonen.

3. Viljo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Viljo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Viljo is derived from the Germanic root Wil found in names like William, meaning “will” or “desire.”

Similar-sounding names: Vilho, Ville, Vili, Vaino, Valto, Vesa, Veeti, Veli, Voitto, and Valo.

2. Yrjö

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Yrjö is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Yrjö is the Finnish form of George, derived from the Greek Georgios, meaning “farmer” or “earthworker.”

Similar-sounding names: Yrjänä, Ylermi, Yngvi, Ymir, Ylva, Yri, Ylvali, Yuki, Yrjölin, and Yrsa.

1. Seppo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Seppo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Seppo is derived from the Finnish word for “smith,” symbolizing creativity and craftsmanship, and also relates to Seppo Ilmarinen, the blacksmith hero in the Kalevala.

Similar-sounding names: Simo, Sakari, Saku, Sami, Samu, Selmo, Sakke, Sulo, Siiri, and Sampo.

Most popular Finnish boy names in 2023

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North
Julia Raketic / Shutterstock.com

The Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) is a Finnish agency promoting the digitalization of society, securing the availability of data, and providing services for the life events of its customers.

One of the responsibilities of the DVV is maintaining up-to-date data on first, middle, and last names as they’re given to a child, much like the United States Social Security Administration (SSA) does in the US. 

As part of this data, the DVV releases an annual list of the most popular baby names, including the most popular Finnish boy names for that year. These are the names you’ll see the most if you went to Finland.

Of the 22,000+ baby boys born in Finland last year, here are the most popular Finnish boy names!

25. Eino

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 376 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Eino is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Eino is derived from the Old Norse word einir, meaning “one” or “alone,” symbolizing uniqueness.

Similar-sounding names: Eeli, Eetu, Eemil, Enok, Enni, Elmo, Erno, Eino, Eppu, and Esko.

24. Oliver

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 343 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Oliver is of Latin origin.

Derivation and meaning: Oliver is derived from the Latin word oliva, meaning “olive tree,” symbolizing peace.

Similar-sounding names: Olivier, Olavi, Olle, Olli, Olliver, Oskar, Otto, Owen, Osmo, and Ollie.

23. Väinö

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 320 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Väinö is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Väinö is derived from Väinämöinen, a central character in Finnish mythology, symbolizing wisdom and magic.

Similar-sounding names: Vaino, Veeti, Veikko, Veli, Vilho, Viljo, Ville, Venni, Valo, and Voitto.

22. Elias

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 305 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Elias is of Hebrew origin.

Derivation and meaning: Elias is derived from the Hebrew name Eliyahu, meaning “my God is Yahweh.”

Similar-sounding names: Elia, Eli, Eelis, Eliel, Eeli, Eljas, Elmer, Enok, Esaias, and Emrik.

21. Onni

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 283 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Onni is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Onni means “happiness” or “luck” in Finnish, symbolizing joy and good fortune.

Similar-sounding names: Oiva, Olli, Otto, Olavi, Osmo, Ossi, Okko, Onni, Orion, and Oli.

20. Leo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 278 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Leo is of Latin origin.

Derivation and meaning: Leo is derived from the Latin word leo, meaning “lion,” symbolizing strength and courage.

Similar-sounding names: Leon, Levi, Leevi, Lari, Lenny, Liam, Lennox, Luca, Luis, and Linus.

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19. Emil

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 229 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Emil is of Latin origin.

Derivation and meaning: Emil is derived from the Latin name Aemilius, meaning “rival” or “eager.”

Similar-sounding names: Eemil, Elmo, Enok, Enni, Emmet, Einar, Erno, Elian, Eino, and Ezra.

18. Vilho

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 217 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Vilho is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Vilho is a Finnish form of William, which originates from the Germanic Wilhelm, meaning “resolute protector.”

Similar-sounding names: Viljo, Ville, Veli, Veeti, Vaino, Voitto, Valo, Vili, Valtteri, and Vesa.

17. Eeli

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 207 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Eeli is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Eeli is a Finnish variant of Elijah, derived from the Hebrew Eliyahu, meaning “my God is Yahweh.”

Similar-sounding names: Eero, Elias, Enok, Elia, Eemil, Eino, Enni, Eetu, Esko, and Eliel.

16. Aatos

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 200 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Aatos is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Aatos means “thought” or “idea” in Finnish, symbolizing contemplation.

Similar-sounding names: Aarne, Aapo, Aatu, Antero, Aimo, Armas, Aleksi, Aki, Alpo, and Arto.

15. Noel

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 194 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Noel is of French origin.

Derivation and meaning: Noel comes from the Old French noel, meaning “Christmas,” derived from the Latin natalis.

Similar-sounding names: Nolan, Neil, Niko, Niall, Noah, Nomi, Natan, Nico, Nello, and Norm.

14. Alvar

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 193 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Alvar is of Old Norse origin.

Derivation and meaning: Alvar is derived from the Old Norse elements alf, meaning “elf,” and arr, meaning “warrior.”

Similar-sounding names: Aarne, Antero, Arvo, Aatos, Armas, Alpo, Axel, Aarni, Arto, and Aki.

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13. Oiva

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 192 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Oiva is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Oiva means “excellent” or “splendid” in Finnish, symbolizing positivity and brightness.

Similar-sounding names: Onni, Olavi, Otto, Ossi, Osmo, Orion, Olli, Okko, Oli, and Orri.

12. Toivo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 189 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Toivo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Toivo means “hope” in Finnish, symbolizing optimism and perseverance.

Similar-sounding names: Tapio, Taavi, Taito, Tuomo, Tero, Taneli, Tuukka, Timo, Tarmo, and Tatu.

11. Eemil

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 186 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Eemil is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Eemil is derived from the Latin name Aemilius, meaning “rival” or “eager.”

Similar-sounding names: Emil, Elias, Enok, Enni, Elmo, Eino, Eeli, Erno, Enzio, and Eetu.

10. Leevi

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 184 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Leevi is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Leevi is derived from the Hebrew name Levi, meaning “joined” or “attached.”

Similar-sounding names: Levi, Lenny, Leon, Leo, Liam, Luca, Luis, Lari, Lennox, and Lucio.

9. Nooa

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 181 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Nooa is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Nooa is the Finnish form of Noah, derived from the Hebrew Noach, meaning “rest” or “comfort.”

Similar-sounding names: Noel, Niilo, Noam, Nolan, Niko, Natan, Neil, Nico, Norm, and Niall.

8. Hugo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 168 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Hugo is of Germanic origin.

Derivation and meaning: Hugo is derived from the Germanic element hug, meaning “mind” or “spirit.”

Similar-sounding names: Hugh, Hans, Henno, Heikki, Harri, Hessu, Henri, Hanno, Herro, and Hall.

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7. Joel

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 166 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Joel is of Hebrew origin.

Derivation and meaning: Joel is derived from the Hebrew name Yoel, meaning “Yahweh is God.”

Similar-sounding names: Joona, Janne, Juho, Jani, Jarkko, Joakim, Joose, Jesse, Juuso, and Joni.

6. Otso

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 150 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Otso is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Otso means “bear” in Finnish, symbolizing strength and connection with nature.

Similar-sounding names: Ohto, Onni, Olli, Ossi, Orri, Olavi, Otto, Osmo, Okko, and Orion.

5. Viljami

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 147 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Viljami is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Viljami is the Finnish form of William, which is derived from the Germanic Wilhelm, meaning “resolute protector.”

Similar-sounding names: Viljo, Vili, Ville, Valto, Vaino, Veli, Veeti, Vilho, and Valtteri.

4. Kasper

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 137 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Kasper is of Persian origin.

Derivation and meaning: Kasper is derived from the Persian name Gathaspar, meaning “treasurer,” often associated with one of the Biblical Magi.

Similar-sounding names: Kasimir, Kalle, Kaapo, Kaarlo, Kari, Kimmo, Kustaa, Karri, Kosti, and Kaino.

3. Eemi

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 137 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Eemi is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Eemi is a Finnish variation of Emil, derived from the Latin name Aemilius, meaning “rival” or “eager.”

Similar-sounding names: Eemil, Emil, Enok, Eino, Enni, Elmo, Eero, Erno, Elias, and Eetu.

2. Eelis

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 136 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Eelis is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Eelis is a Finnish variant of Elijah, which is derived from the Hebrew Eliyahu, meaning “my God is Yahweh.”

Similar-sounding names: Eeli, Elias, Eero, Eliel, Enok, Elia, Eljas, Enni, Elmo, and Erno.

1. Anton

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

DVV Data: 136 baby boys given this name in 2023

Origin: Anton is of Latin origin.

Derivation and meaning: Anton is derived from the Roman name Antonius, meaning “priceless” or “invaluable.”

Similar-sounding names: Antti, Aarne, Antero, Arto, Aatos, Aku, Aarni, Aleksi, Atte, and Alek.

Finnish boy names inspired by cities in Finland

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North
Maxim Studio / Shutterstock.com

Finland, located in Northern Europe, is positioned in the Fennoscandian region, and shares borders with Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east, with the Gulf of Finland to the south.

Its proximity to the Baltic Sea offers a coastal environment, while vast forests and lakes, known as “the Land of a Thousand Lakes,” make Finland a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. 

As of recent estimates, Finland’s population is approximately 5.5 million people, most of whom reside in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku, though rural areas retain a unique charm distinctive to Finland.

The country is also famous for its vibrant winter sports scene, with popular ski resorts like Levi and Ylläs drawing visitors each year. In fact, Finland was the host nation for the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki. 

If you’re looking for Finnish boy names inspired by towns and cities in Finland, check these names out!

10. Turku

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Turku is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Turku is derived from an Old East Slavic word tǔrgǔ, meaning “marketplace,” as Turku is one of Finland’s oldest market towns.

Located on the southwest coast of Finland, Turku is Finland’s oldest city and was once its capital. With a population of about 195,000, it’s known for the historic Turku Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and the beautiful Turku Cathedral. The city is also home to the Archipelago Sea, which provides access to some of Finland’s most scenic islands.

9. Oulu

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Oulu is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Oulu is derived from a Sami word oulâ, meaning “floodwater,” as the city is located near waterways.

Oulu, with a population of around 210,000, lies in northern Finland along the Oulujoki River near the Gulf of Bothnia. Known for its technology sector and vibrant university community, it also hosts the popular Air Guitar World Championships. Other highlights include the Tietomaa Science Centre and the modern Oulu Market Hall.

8. Lahti

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Lahti is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Lahti means “bay” in Finnish, referring to the city’s location on the shore of a lake.

Lahti, located about 100 kilometers north of Helsinki, is known for its strong sports culture, especially winter sports. With a population of about 120,000, its main attractions include the Salpausselkä Ski Jumping Hills and the Sibelius Hall, a major concert venue. Lahti is also known for its environmental innovation and dedication to sustainability.

7. Vaasa

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Vaasa is of Finnish and Swedish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Vaasa is derived from the Swedish royal house of Vasa, historically significant in both Swedish and Finnish history.

On Finland’s west coast near Sweden, Vaasa is home to about 67,000 people and is celebrated for its Nordic energy sector and bilingual community. Key attractions include the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its geological formations, and the Vaasa Maritime Museum. The city also boasts a lively annual Night of the Arts festival.

6. Kouvola

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Kouvola is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Kouvola’s name is believed to derive from kouvo, meaning “bear” in Finnish dialects, combined with a typical Finnish place suffix.

Kouvola, located in southeastern Finland, has a population of around 80,000. It’s a hub for Finland’s railway industry and offers unique attractions like Repovesi National Park, known for its rugged landscapes and hiking trails. Kouvola is also home to Tykkimäki Amusement Park, popular with families and tourists.

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5. Rauma

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Rauma is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Rauma is derived from the old Finnish word raumo, meaning “peace” or “tranquility,” reflecting the peaceful nature of the region.

With a population of approximately 39,000, Rauma is a historic coastal town in southwest Finland. Its Old Rauma district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring well-preserved wooden architecture from the 17th century. The city is also known for its lace-making tradition and hosts the annual Rauma Lace Week.

4. Lohja

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Lohja is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: The name Lohja may be related to the Finnish word lohkaista, meaning “to split,” possibly referring to a geographical feature.

Located west of Helsinki, Lohja has a population of about 47,000 and is known for its picturesque lakes and limestone mines. Key attractions include Tytyri Mine Experience, an underground museum in an active limestone mine, and Lake Lohjanjärvi, the largest lake in southern Finland, perfect for boating and fishing.

3. Mikkeli

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Mikkeli is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Mikkeli is named after the Archangel Michael, derived from the Finnish form of Mikael.

Situated in the heart of Finland’s Lake District, Mikkeli has about 53,000 residents. Known for its lakeside beauty and natural surroundings, Mikkeli offers attractions like the Kenkävero Manor, an arts and crafts center, and the Mikkeli Cathedral. The city also played a significant role during WWII as the headquarters of Marshal Mannerheim.

2. Salo

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Salo is of Finnish origin.

Derivation and meaning: Salo is derived from the Finnish word salo, meaning “forest” or “wooded area.”

Salo, located about halfway between Helsinki and Turku, has a population of approximately 52,000. Historically linked to the mobile phone industry due to its association with Nokia, Salo is now focused on technology and innovation. Nature lovers enjoy Teijo National Park nearby, and the Astrum Centre houses exhibitions and cultural events.

1. Karis

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North

Origin: Karis is of Swedish origin, but also used in Finland.

Derivation and meaning: Karis may derive from the Scandinavian name Kari, which itself means “pure” or “chaste.”

Karis (Finnish: Karjaa), with a population of around 9,000, is part of Raseborg in southern Finland, close to the coast and about an hour from Helsinki. Known for its Swedish-speaking heritage, Karis is home to the 14th-century Raseborg Castle ruins and Ekenäs Archipelago National Park, a great spot for birdwatching and exploring small islands.

What did you think of all those Finnish boy names? 

60 unique Finnish boy names that capture the beauty of the North
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In a world where Greek, Latin, and Hebrew names are found in just about every classroom, it’s nice to switch things up every now and then. And that’s exactly what we’re doing with these Finnish boy names. 

They’re a bit of a breath of fresh air for parents who are tired of the typical, everyday baby names given today, including William, Benjamin, Thomas, Frank, Noah, Liam, Elijah, and others that are too common.

With Finnish boy names, there’s a good chance your son will be the only one with his name when he walks in for his first day of school. And that’ll likely remain true throughout high school and college!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Check Out Our Blog Name Generator for More Unique Baby Name Ideas!

But if Finnish boy names weren’t everything we made them out to be, then don’t worry. We have plenty more where that came from at our Mamas Uncut blog, and we upload new baby name ideas every day!

About Mamas Uncut

Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.

Baby Name Generator

No baby name sounding good? Want a quick way to generate unique baby name ideas? Try our baby name generator below!

Set your terms (sex of the baby, number of letters, popularity, etc.) and then get a list of names that meet your criteria. Maybe the perfect name is just waiting to be generated for you.

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