Search engine optimization (SEO) scores are metrics that analyze how optimized a web page is to rank highly in search engines. Scores typically range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better optimization. But is a score of 50 good enough to rank on the first page of Google? Let’s take a detailed look.
How SEO Scores Are Calculated
SEO scoring tools analyze on-page and off-page factors to generate an overall optimization score. Some of the key elements considered include:
On-page factors:
- Keyword usage and density
- Page speed
- Mobile friendliness
- Headings usage
- Image optimization
- Internal linking
- Meta tags
Off-page factors:
- Backlinks from authority websites
- Social media shares
- Domain authority
- Referring domains
Based on how well a page optimizes these factors, it receives an SEO score between 0 and 100.
Now the question is - how high should your score be to rank on page 1 of Google?
Is a 50 SEO Score Enough for Page 1 Rankings?
The short answer is - typically no. While the exact number can vary based on competition and search volume, in most cases you will need an SEO score of at least 80-90 to have a good chance of hitting the coveted first page.
Here is a comparison of rankings based on SEO scores:
| SEO Score | Expected Google Ranking |
|---|---|
| 90-100 | Page 1, Rankings 1-3 |
| 80-90 | Page 1, Rankings 3-5 |
| 70-80 | Page 1 or 2, Rankings 5-7 |
| 60-70 | Page 2 or 3 |
| 50-60 | Page 3 or lower |
As you can see, a score of 50 would likely lead to a ranking on page 3 or lower for most competitive keywords. It means there are still critical improvements needed with on and off-page optimization factors.
Why You Should Aim Higher Than 50
Simply said, an SEO score of 50 suggests that only 50% of best practices are implemented on that page. The other 50% - things like backlinks, site speed, engagement etc - still need significant work.
In 2023, with Google algoritms getting smarter by the day, settling for average quality will not cut it anymore. You need to go above and beyond to stand out - building high authority backlinks, creating stellar content, and providing real value to users.
Consider that top ranking pages likely have SEO scores in the 80s and 90s. So aiming for 50 essentially means you are satisfied with mediocrity rather than striving for excellence.
Key Areas to Improve to Go from 50 to 80+
Here are some critical focus areas to improve an SEO score from 50 to 80+:
Backlinks: Build quality backlinks from authority websites related to your niche. Guest posting and content syndication work well. Here is a great backlinking guide from Ahrefs with actionable tips.
Page speed: Site speed dramatically impacts rankings. Improve page loads by optimizing images, minimizing HTTP requests, using a fast web host, and enabling browser caching. Google recommends keeping page loads under 2 seconds. These tips help speed up WordPress sites.
Content length: On average, pages that rank #1 in Google have over 2,000 words per article. Add more helpful, engaging information rather than short generic content. Here’s a useful template for creating high ranking long form content.
Social promotion: Increase social engagement which serves as social validation signals for Google. Promote new content proactively on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Learn tips in this updated social media marketing guide for 2023.
By focusing efforts on these high impact areas, you can improve your SEO score into the 80+ range over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I have a 50 SEO score now, how long will it take me to reach 80+?
A: With consistent effort, focus, and execution, you can likely improve from 50 to 80+ within 6-12 months. Build high quality links slowly, create stellar long form content, and actively promote it on social. The work will compound over time.
Q: What is the #1 most important thing to focus on with an SEO score of 50?
A: In most cases, the lack of backlinks from authority sites within your niche is hurting your score the most at 50. Make acquiring backlinks your #1 priority. Guest post on industry authority sites, syndicate content, and build relationships with influencers to earn backlinks.
Q: Is an SEO score of 100 actually attainable?
A: Technically yes, but it is extremely rare. A handful of pages on massive authority sites and organizations may reach 100. But for most sites, once you hit 85+ you have achieved excellent SEO from an rankings perspective. With 100 being perfection, 85-95 is usually the realistic ceiling for commercial sites in competitive niches.
Q: If my page has a high SEO score, does that guarantee a #1 ranking in Google?
A: Unfortunately not - Google’s organic algorithm considers dozens of signals so SEO score is only one factor. You may create the perfect page yet still be outranked by an authority site with more trust and links. But in the same niche, higher SEO score will give you a significant advantage all else being equal.
Conclusion
To summarize, an SEO score of 50 is average at best and needs substantial work to reach page 1 Google rankings. By building quality backlinks, improving page speed, creating long form content, and leveraging social promotion - you can boost your score into the 80+ range required for top rankings within 6-12 months.
Rather than being complacent with mediocrity, keep striving for excellence by implementing SEO best practices across technical and content factors. The effort is well worth winning those coveted first page rankings in competitive search queries!
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