Today we rank the zodiac signs from least to most common using US Government birth data from 1994 to 2014. In this time period, there were 86 million people born. Trends suggest that over these years, some zodiac signs are much more common than others.
From the emotional Cancer to the adventurous Sagittarius, each of the twelve zodiac signs has its own unique traits. While some signs are rare and harder to find, others are pretty common. So you might have many friends with the same sign.
The most common zodiac signs all fall within three consecutive zodiac seasons. Furthermore, the most common sign is 16% more popular than the rarest.
It’s important to recognize that we are all special and unique regardless of our astrological signs. Thus, take a minute to reflect on the qualities that make you one-of-a-kind!
So, without further ado, let’s rank the zodiac signs from least to most common.
Least to most common zodiac sign
12. Capricorn: 7.50%
With 7.5% of the US population born between December 22 and January 19, Capricorn is the least common zodiac sign. With five out of six least popular days to give birth falling under the Capricorn sun sign, it is evident that those born beneath this zodiac are rare. Of all the days, Christmas Day (25 Dec) sees the fewest number of babies born. After Christmas Day, there is a 19% increase in birth rates to the second least common day to be born, New Year’s Day. Christmas Eve follows closely behind New Year’s Day as the third least common day to be born. The main explanation for this is that doctors rarely schedule cesareans during weekends or holidays.
Capricorns have had to share their birthday month with Jesus Christ or celebrate it in January which is likely not something they look forward to. So let’s make them feel special and give them a chance to feel appreciated by acknowledging they are the rarest zodiac sign. One of the main explanations for Capricorn being so uncommon is that its season lasts only 29 days, making it the shortest zodiac period. In contrast to this, other star signs span 30 or more days.
11. Aries: 8.02%
Aries is the second least common zodiac sign, representing 8.02% of births in the US. Aries is the first astrological sign of the zodiac. It is a mystery as to why Aries ranks so low on the list. Nevertheless, one likely explanation may be that they are born during the time of summer when many people are outside enjoying the sunshine and participating in other recreational activities.
People born under the Aries zodiac sign are bold, energetic, and ambitious. They are known for their confidence and outgoing personalities. Aries tend to be fearless, which can make them appear overly aggressive or impulsive at times. But their courage often leads to success as they are not afraid to take risks.
10. Aquarius: 8.05%
Closely following the second least common sign is Aquarius, the third least common zodiac sign, with 8.05% of births in the US. Aquarius is often seen as a rare zodiac sign due to it being the shortest astrological month, in addition to having February being the shortest month of them all. However, there are 31 days in the Aquarius season compared to 29 in the Capricorn season. Plus, Aquarius dates are January 20 to February 18, so the fact that February is a shorter month is irrelevant.
Aquarians are definitely an uncommon breed. Their eccentric personalities stand out. They are often considered trendsetters in their own right. An Aquarian’s distinct personality keeps them unceasingly ahead of the times. They tend to have a natural ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems. They are also independent and progressive, always looking for ways to improve upon existing ideas. These traits make them rare and special.
9. Sagittarius: 8.06%
Sagittarius is the fourth least common zodiac sign. Representing 8.06% of births in the US, Sagittarians are born between November 22 and December 21.
Sagittarians are known for their optimistic and adventurous outlook on life. They tend to be independent, philosophical, and proactive. Sagittarians have a unique ability to look at the big picture without getting bogged down in details. They are also open-minded, which allows them to explore new possibilities and take risks that most other zodiac signs would not consider. Sagittarians are certainly unique and special.
8. Pisces: 8.13%
With 8.13% of the US population born between February 19 and March 20, Pisces is the eighth most common zodiac sign. As one of the rarer zodiac signs, Pisces is unique in that every four years, there is an extra day added to the astrological calendar with the leap year. Thus creating an extra Pisces season day.
Pisces are known for their sensitive and imaginative nature. They are deeply intuitive, often seeing things that others may miss. This can make them appear mysterious or introverted at times, but they are ultimately very kind-hearted individuals who care deeply for their loved ones and strive to help those in need. Pisces is a rare and special zodiac sign, representing the mysterious depths of the sea.
7. Scorpio: 8.19%
Scorpio is the seventh most common zodiac sign, representing 8.19% of the population born between 1994 and 2014. Those born between October 23rd and November 21st belong to the Scorpio sign.
Scorpios have a mysterious, intense, and passionate way about them. They thrive on challenging themselves with exciting tasks that push their boundaries. Scorpios tend to be independent thinkers who are determined and resilient in the face of adversity. They also have a great deal of emotional depth, allowing them to pick up on subtle signals from those around them. This makes them both remarkable and captivating since few individuals are able to see beyond the surface.
6. Taurus: 8.33%
Taurus is the sixth most common zodiac sign, making up 8.33% of births in the US between 1994 and 2014. Individuals born during the period of April 20th to May 20th are all proudly identified as Taureans.
Taureans are known for their practical and grounded approach to life. They tend to be logical and analytical in their thinking, allowing them to come up with creative solutions to everyday problems. Taureans are also famously stubborn but determined. This can sometimes get them in trouble, as they are less likely than other zodiac signs to back down from a challenge or take the easy way out. Nonetheless, their determination and originality make them special and unique individuals who know how to get things done.
5. Libra: 8.41%
Libra is the fifth most common zodiac sign, representing 8.41% of births in America between 1994 and 2014. If you find yourself born from September 23 to October 22, then congratulations – you are a Libra.
Libras are sociable, charming, and diplomatic. They are known for their ability to listen to both sides of an argument and come up with a fair solution. Libras also tend to have a unique appreciation for beauty, balance, and harmony that is rarely seen in other zodiac signs. This makes Libras truly special and unique individuals with a distinct outlook on life. They can also be indecisive, hence their symbol of the scales.
4. Gemini: 8.48%
Geminis are the fourth most common zodiac sign, comprising 8.48% of babies who were born in America between 1994 and 2014. The contrast in rarity between Gemini and Leo is 5%, the most considerable disparity amongst any two consecutive rankings.
Geminis are known for their intelligence, curiosity, and communication skills. They are natural problem-solvers who enjoy exploring different perspectives on any given topic. Geminis also tend to be playful and witty with the people around them. Their unique personalities make them a delight to be around, often inspiring others with their enthusiasm and zest for life. However, they can be a bit flaky at times, so it is best to give them a gentle reminder if you need something from them.
3. Leo: 8.88%
Representing 8.88% of births in the US between 1994 and 2014, Leo is the third most common zodiac sign. The three most common zodiac signs all fall within three consecutive zodiac seasons.
Leos are known for their fiery and passionate personalities. They love to be the center of attention, often taking leadership roles in groups or making a scene with their loud laughter or even louder fashion choices. Leos are also fiercely loyal to their friends and family, always looking out for those they care about. This makes them remarkable people who can make an impact in any room they walk into. Despite their powerful personalities, Leos can also be incredibly empathetic and generous when needed. Ultimately, they are unafraid to pursue their passions and live life to the fullest. So it’s great that there are so many of them!
2. Virgo: 8.95%
Of all zodiac signs, Virgo is the second most common zodiac sign, claiming a birth rate of 8.95%. Nine out of the top 10 most common birth dates fall within the Virgo season. The birth of Virgo babies comes during the end-of-year holiday season when people are snuggling up with their partners and making the most of the cuffing season. That’s why it’s no surprise that Virgos have become so common
Another theory is that many parents aim for their children to be born in September so they can have the upper hand when it comes time for them to start school. This would make them the eldest of their peers. I know this feeling all too well; as a Virgo, I was my parents’ attempt to be one of the oldest in my school year. Alas, fate countered their plans. Instead, I made an early exit two weeks before my due date. This made me by far the youngest in my entire year group. If it weren’t for the additional day in Cancer’s astrological season, Virgo would reign as the most prominent sign of the zodiac.
1. Cancer: 9.01%
At the top of our list comes Cancers, who are the most common zodiac sign. 9.01% of all births in the US from 1994 to 2014 were Cancers. Cancer is the longest astrological season, with its date range stretching from June 21 through July 22 – a full day longer than any other sign. Despite the fact that the fourth least popular birth date falls within the Cancer season, the consistently high birth rate of the other days more than makes up for it.
According to research, the summer months bring about more births than any other season – which could explain why many people are born with the Cancer zodiac sign. Cancer is renowned for its loving and compassionate nature, which makes it distinctive. Characterized by introspection and exceptional emotional intelligence, Cancers are devoted and loyal friends who will go above and beyond for those they love. Although Cancers can be moody sometimes, their sensitivity makes them endearing. A Cancer’s ability to empathize with any individual or situation makes them a valuable ally and confidant – qualities that have proven invaluable in most circles.
So which zodiac signs are the most common? Based on US Government data on births from 1994 to 2014, we found Cancer, Virgo, and Leo are the three most popular signs. More babies are born in the summer months than in any other season, which explains why these prime summer zodiac signs are so common.
Despite being common, each of these astrological signs is known for its unique traits that make their owners special. From the fiery Leo to the compassionate Cancer, these three signs represent the diverse range of personalities that come with being human. So if you’re one of these three zodiac signs, don’t worry – you’re still unique. After all, there are 7 billion other people worldwide, and no two of us are the same!
Overall, while the commonness of each zodiac sign may differ based on birth statistics, all twelve signs have something unique about them. So embrace your zodiac sign no matter how rare it is – it’s what makes you you.
Now you know the most common sign, check out the best trait of each zodiac sign.
If you’re interested in personality types, you can also check out the most common personality types ranked. If you don’t know your personality type, you can take our free 5-minute personality test.
