How to Find Low-Competition Keywords

Finding low-competition keywords is essential for ranking higher in search results, especially if you have a new website or are competing against well-established brands. Low-competition keywords have less competition, making it easier to rank and attract organic traffic. This guide will show you step-by-step strategies to find and target low-competition keywords for SEO success.

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What Are Low-Competition Keywords?

Low-competition keywords are search terms with relatively few websites competing for top rankings. These keywords are typically:

• Long-tail keywords (4+ words, specific search intent).

• Less popular but highly targeted for a niche audience.

• Easier to rank for, even for newer or smaller websites.

Benefits of Targeting Low-Competition Keywords

Higher Ranking Potential – Less competition means easier rankings.

More Targeted Traffic – Visitors are looking for specific information, making them more likely to convert.

Faster SEO Results – You can see results quicker than targeting high-competition keywords.

Great for New Websites – If you have a low domain authority, ranking for competitive keywords is difficult, but low-competition ones give you a chance to rank.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Low-Competition Keywords

1. Use Google Autocomplete & Related Searches

Google’s search bar suggests low-competition long-tail keywords based on real user queries.

How to Use It:

1. Type a broad keyword into Google (e.g., "best running shoes for").

2. Note the autocomplete suggestions (e.g., "best running shoes for flat feet").

3. Scroll down to “Related Searches” at the bottom of the search results page.

4. Look for long-tail variations that are less competitive.

2. Use Google’s “People Also Ask” Feature

• Google’s "People Also Ask" (PAA) box provides question-based keywords with low competition.

• Click on a question to reveal more related queries.

Example: Searching for "SEO tips" might reveal "How can I improve my SEO ranking?" – a great long-tail keyword to target.

3. Use Free Keyword Research Tools

Several free tools can help you find low-competition keywords:

• Google Keyword Planner – Find low-competition keywords under "Competition" (Low/Medium/High).

• Ubersuggest – Check SEO difficulty scores; aim for scores under 30.

• AnswerThePublic – Find common question-based search terms.

• Keyword Sheeter – Generates thousands of keyword ideas.

4. Analyze Competitor Keywords with SEO Tools

Find low-competition opportunities by researching your competitors.

Best Tools for Competitor Research:

• Ahrefs – Use "Keyword Explorer" to find keywords with a Keyword Difficulty (KD) below 30.

• SEMrush – Find keywords that competitors rank for but have low difficulty scores.

• Moz Keyword Explorer – Shows the "Priority Score," which factors in competition and search volume.

Tip: Look for competitor keywords ranking on page 2 or 3 of Google—these are easier to outrank!

5. Find Question-Based Keywords

Question-based keywords often have low competition because fewer websites target them directly.

Best Resources for Finding Questions:

• Quora – Look for common user questions in your industry.

• Reddit – Search subreddit discussions for niche topics.

• AnswerThePublic – Generates hundreds of real-world user questions.

6. Check Keyword Difficulty & Search Volume

To find the best low-competition keywords, balance search volume and keyword difficulty.

What to Look For:

• Keyword Difficulty (KD) under 30 → Easier to rank.

• Search Volume between 100-5,000 per month → Enough traffic potential.

• Long-Tail Keywords (4+ words) → Lower competition.

Example:

• "Best hiking boots" (KD: 75, Search Volume: 50K) Too Competitive

• "Best waterproof hiking boots under $100" (KD: 25, Search Volume: 1.5K) Low Competition & Targeted

7. Use Local & Niche Keywords

If you run a local business or serve a niche audience, geo-targeted or specific industry keywords often have less competition.

Examples:

• "Best coffee shop in Seattle"

• "Affordable wedding photographer in Miami"

• "Beginner yoga classes in NYC"

Tip: Use Google My Business keywords if targeting local SEO.

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How to Use Low-Competition Keywords for SEO Success

Once you find low-competition keywords, optimize your content strategically.

1. Use Keywords in Strategic Locations

Title Tag & Meta Description – Include the keyword naturally. URL Structure – Example: yourwebsite.com/best-budget-laptops-2024

Headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) – Use keywords in headings and subheadings.

Content Body – Use keywords naturally without stuffing.

Alt Text for Images – Helps with SEO and accessibility.

2. Create High-Quality Content Around the Keyword

• Write in-depth articles (1,500+ words) targeting low-competition keywords.

• Answer common questions users search for.

• Use lists, tables, and bullet points for better readability.

3. Build Internal & External Links

• Link to related blog posts within your website.

• Earn backlinks from high-authority sites by creating valuable content.

4. Optimize for Featured Snippets & Voice Search

• Use question-based keywords to rank in Google’s "People Also Ask" box.

• Format content in Q&A or list format for better visibility.

5. Monitor Performance & Adjust

• Track keyword rankings with Google Search Console.

• Update content regularly to maintain rankings.

• Add new related keywords based on search trends.