The surname is German but is also well-established in Scandinavia, the Netherlands, eastern Europe, and elsewhere as well as in all German-speaking countries, and among Ashkenazi Jews.

The Wagner surname was first found in Saxony, where the family became a prominent contributor to the development of the area from ancient times.

[3] The alternatively spelled surname Wegner has its origin in Silesia.

This common occupational surname was often given to one who transported produce or other goods via high-sided wagons or carts.

[4] In Czech, the feminine form of the surname is Wagnerová.