Kelley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kelley come from? What does the surname Kelley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kelley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Kelly
Surname Kelley Origin: What does the last name Kelley mean?
The surname Kelley is a variant of the Irish surname Kelly, originating from Ireland. The name is believed to have first appeared in records in the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 12th century. Over the centuries, the Kelley surname has become more prevalent in the United States, indicating a shift in the main geographical area of the Kelley family.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Kelley surname, with a significant expansion in the United States during the 16th century. Today, the Kelley surname is predominantly found in the United States, but it also has a presence in various countries worldwide, reflecting its widespread distribution and diverse heritage.
Kelley Last Name History: Where did the last name Kelley come from?
Origin of Kelley Surname: Where does the last name Kelley originate from?
YourRoots data indicates that the surname Kelley first made its appearance in records originating from the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 12th century. Please note that this information pertains solely to YourRoots data for the exact “Kelley” spelling and does not account for other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kelley: What does the Kelley surname history look like in the early days?
The “Kelley” surname was closely linked with the United Kingdom, particularly England, from the 12th through the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. However, the surname began to significantly increase in volume in the United States from the 16th century onwards, indicating a shift in the main geographical area of the Kelley family.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kelley surname today?
The volume of records bearing the Kelley surname saw a significant expansion in the United States during the 16th century, surpassing the United Kingdom by the early 17th century. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the “Kelley” surname is predominantly found in the United States, but its presence is also noted in a variety of other countries worldwide, reflecting its global spread.
Explore Kelley last name heritage and Kelley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kelley Surame?
Malcolm David Kelley
Malcolm David Kelley (May 12, 1992) is an American actor and singer best known for his role as Walt Lloyd on the hit ABC series Lost. He is also one half of the pop duo MKTO, known for their hit single "Classic".
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