Costa Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Costa come from? What does the surname Costa mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Costa and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Costa Origin: What does the last name Costa mean?
The surname Costa has Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese origins, derived from the Latin word costa, meaning "rib" or "slope/coast" in Romance languages. It has a toponymic origin, indicating a geographical connection, often found in coastal or slope locations. The surname spread globally through colonization and was also adopted by former Jews following conversions to Roman Catholicism and other Christian denominations.
YourRoots data shows that the Costa surname first appeared in records from Portugal in the early 12th century, remaining closely associated with the country until the 16th century. Over the centuries, Costa family records have been found in countries like Brazil and Italy, indicating a widespread distribution. By the 20th century, the surname had gained significant prominence in the United States, Italy, Brazil, and various other nations, showcasing its enduring presence and global reach across different regions and cultures.
Costa Last Name History: Where did the last name Costa come from?
Origin of Costa Surname: Where does the last name Costa originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Costa first appeared in records from Portugal around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Costa spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Costa: What does the Costa surname history look like in the early days?
The Costa surname remained closely associated with Portugal from the 12th to the 16th century. YourRoots data also shows Costa family records in countries like Brazil and Italy, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Costa surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Costa surname grew significantly in the United States, Italy, Brazil, and other countries. The Costa surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including a wide global spread.
Explore Costa last name heritage and Costa surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Costa Surame?
Diego Costa
Diego da Silva Costa (October 7, 1988) is a Brazilian-Spanish professional footballer known for his fiery temperament on the field. Costa started his career in Brazil before moving to Europe and playing for top clubs like Atlético Madrid and Chelsea. He has represented Spain at the international level, playing in the FIFA World Cup. Despite his controversies, Costa's goal-scoring abilities have earned him several titles and accolades throughout his career.
Douglas Costa
Douglas Costa de Souza (September 14, 1990 - ) is a Brazilian professional footballer known for his exceptional dribbling skills and speed. He has played for top clubs like Shakhtar Donetsk, Bayern Munich, and Juventus, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups. Costa has represented Brazil in international competitions like the Copa América and FIFA World Cup, showcasing his talent on a global stage.
António Costa
António Luís Santos da Costa (July 17, 1961 - ) is a Portuguese lawyer and politician who has served as President of the European Council since 2024. He previously served as the 118th Prime Minister of Portugal, with the second-longest tenure in Portuguese democracy. Costa is of French, Mozambican, and Goan descent, known affectionately as Babush in Goa. As Mayor of Lisbon, he won reelection multiple times, showcasing his dedication to public service. Despite facing controversy and resigning in 2023, Costa's political career has left a lasting impact on Portuguese and European politics.
Rui Costa
Rui Manuel César Costa (Mar 29, 1972 - ) is a Portuguese former professional footballer known for his exceptional skills as an attacking midfielder. Costa played for top clubs like S.L. Benfica, Fiorentina, and AC Milan, winning numerous trophies including the UEFA Champions League. He was named one of the 125 greatest living football players by Pelé in the FIFA 100 list. Costa also served as the president of S.L. Benfica, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of football.
Diogo Costa
Diogo Meireles da Costa (born Sep 19, 1999) is a Portuguese professional footballer known for captaining Primeira Liga club Porto and playing for the Portugal national team as a goalkeeper. Costa rose through Porto's youth system, winning the UEFA Youth League in 2019. He made his senior international debut in 2021 and represented Portugal at major events like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro. Costa's standout performances have earned him accolades like being named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year. With a promising career ahead, Costa continues to make waves in the world of football.
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