Is SEO Good? A Real Talk from Reddit and Beyond

Trying to figure out if SEO is still a smart move for your business or career? The short answer from many online conversations, especially on platforms like Reddit, is yes, absolutely, but with some big caveats. SEO isn’t just “good”. it’s a constantly , often essential part of online success, but it’s not a magic bullet. Think of it less like a quick fix and more like a long-term investment. While some folks on Reddit might share stories of frustration or quick gains, the reality is that Search Engine Optimization continues to be a powerful channel for boosting online visibility, driving organic traffic, and reaching potential customers who are actively looking for what you offer. In fact, 91% of digital marketers reported that SEO had a positive impact on their website performance and marketing goals in 2024, highlighting its ongoing effectiveness. The global SEO market itself was valued at a whopping $82.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $143.9 billion by 2030, showing that the industry is still expanding significantly.

It’s all about getting your content and your website seen by the right people when they use search engines like Google. With most searchers — over 99% — never clicking past the first page of results, getting your site to rank highly is incredibly important. This content will break down what the online community, especially on Reddit, thinks about SEO, its worth for businesses and careers, and whether popular tools like Yoast and Surfer SEO live up to the hype. We’ll also cover if learning SEO is worth your time and look at some common platforms, like Wix, to see how they stack up for SEO.

Why People on Reddit Keep Asking: “Is SEO Worth It?”

You’ll often spot threads on Reddit with titles like “Is SEO worth it reddit” or “Is SEO still worth it reddit.” Why the constant questioning? Well, SEO can feel a bit like a moving target. Google changes its algorithms all the time, sometimes with big core updates that can shake things up. For instance, Google launched four core updates in 2024 alone, which means what worked yesterday might not work as well tomorrow.

There’s also a perception that SEO is super complicated or takes forever to show results. And honestly, sometimes it does. It’s not always an instant gratification game like paid ads can be. The online chatter reflects this mix of hope and skepticism. Many folks are looking for a definitive “yes” or “no” because they’ve either been burned by bad SEO advice or are just overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information out there.

Plus, with the rise of AI tools, many wonder if traditional SEO is becoming obsolete. But here’s the thing: while AI is definitely changing how we approach SEO — for example, interest in “ChatGPT” on Google peaked in June 2024, and AI Overviews now appear in 7.6% of Google searches — it’s not killing SEO. Instead, it’s making it evolve. SEO professionals are using AI platforms to improve their strategies, with 65% reporting better SEO results using AI tools. So, when you see those Reddit questions, it’s usually people trying to cut through the noise and figure out if putting in the effort is genuinely going to pay off for them.

SEO for Your Business: Does It Really Pay Off?

Let’s be real, for any business, the big question is always about the return on investment ROI. Does putting time and resources into SEO actually bring in more customers and money? Based on what marketers are saying, the answer is a resounding yes. A significant 91% of marketers confirmed that SEO positively impacted their website goals and performance in 2024. That’s huge! Is SEO Good for Freelancing? Absolutely, if you’re looking to build a flexible, in-demand, and financially rewarding career, diving into the world of freelance SEO is a fantastic path to consider. I remember when I first started exploring freelancing, the idea of being my own boss and setting my own hours felt like a dream, and SEO genuinely makes that dream a reality for so many. This field isn’t just “good” for freelancing; it’s a bustling hub of opportunity, constantly evolving, and always hungry for skilled professionals. You’re looking at a career that offers incredible autonomy, the chance to work with diverse clients, and a significant earning potential, whether you’re aiming for a full-time business or a lucrative side hustle.

One of the most compelling aspects of SEO is that it’s often more cost-effective in the long run than other marketing channels. While you might pay a big chunk upfront for an agency or in-house expertise, once you start ranking, that organic traffic keeps coming in without a per-click cost. SEO can generate 1,000% more organic traffic than social media, and unlike paid ads, it doesn’t require constant spending to maintain visibility.

Here are some key reasons why businesses find SEO pays off:

• Consistent, High-Quality Traffic: When someone searches for something, they usually have an intent behind that search. If your website shows up for relevant keywords, you’re getting visitors who are actively looking for your products, services, or information. This means higher conversion potential. Studies show 70% of searchers have informational intent, while 22% have commercial intent.
• Increased Brand Visibility and Credibility: Ranking high on Google isn’t just about traffic. it’s about trust. People tend to trust websites that appear at the top of search results. In fact, 75% of users never navigate past the first page of Google, and the top result captures 27.6% of all clicks. Being visible in organic search results helps build your brand’s authority and recognition. Increasing brand awareness through SEO was a top priority for all role levels in 2024.
• Long-Term Results: Unlike paid campaigns that stop driving traffic the moment you stop paying, good SEO work can continue to bring in traffic for months, even years. It’s an asset that compounds over time.
• Competitive Edge: If your competitors are doing SEO, you probably should be too. If they’re not, it’s a massive opportunity for you to get ahead.

For small businesses, you might wonder, “is seo worth it for small business reddit?” The answer is often an even bigger yes. Small local businesses especially benefit because a significant portion of Google searches — almost half — are for local products or services. Optimizing for local SEO can put your business directly in front of people in your area who are ready to buy.

SEO as a Career: What Reddit Thinks About Job Prospects

If you’re asking “is seo good career reddit” or “is learning seo worth it reddit,” you’ll find a mixed bag of opinions, but the overall sentiment leans positive for those willing to adapt. The SEO industry is definitely growing. globally, the number of “SEO jobs” searches rose by 311% between January 2016 and January 2023. How to Optimize SEO for YouTube: Your Ultimate Guide to More Views & Subscribers

However, the job market is also . While content marketing remains important, there’s a growing demand for technical SEO and data analytics skills. In Q4 2024, 75% of job listings required technical SEO skills, a jump from 71% the previous quarter. This means just being able to write keywords isn’t enough. you need to understand how websites work under the hood, how data is analyzed, and how to use tools effectively.

Here’s a snapshot of the SEO career :

• In-Demand Skills: Technical SEO, data analytics, and user experience UX are becoming increasingly critical. AI is also a rapidly growing skill, especially for higher-paying positions.
• Salary Trends: Median SEO salaries did see a dip in 2024, falling from $90,000 in Q1 to $75,000 in Q4, which signals more pressure on mid-level roles. However, senior-level salaries are growing, with positions like VP of SEO earning an average of $191,850. In-house SEO jobs tend to offer higher salaries than agency roles, with 40% of in-house positions exceeding $100,000 annually.
• Job Openings and Environment: The total number of SEO job openings decreased in Q4 2024, particularly for content-related roles. Also, remote work opportunities are shrinking, with only 34% of roles being fully remote in 2024, compared to 45% on-site.
• Career Growth: There’s a clear path for growth, with titles like SEO strategist, technical SEO specialist, and director of SEO being highly in-demand. New roles related to AI-driven SEO strategists are also emerging.

So, while the industry is dynamic, it’s not going anywhere. If you’re considering an SEO career, focusing on technical skills, data, and adapting to AI advancements will make you much more valuable.

Breaking Down SEO Tools: Yoast, Surfer SEO, and More

When you jump into SEO, you quickly realize you need some help, especially with the sheer volume of information. That’s where SEO tools come in. On Reddit, you’ll find tons of discussions like “is yoast seo good reddit” or “is surfer seo good reddit.” Let’s look at what these tools offer. How to Optimize Video SEO: Your Guide to Getting Seen

Yoast SEO: Is It Really That Good?

Yoast SEO is probably one of the most famous WordPress plugins out there. If you’ve ever had a WordPress site, you’ve likely come across it. People ask “is yoast seo worth it reddit” because they want to know if it lives up to its widespread use.

What it’s good for:

• Foundational SEO: Yoast is fantastic for handling the basics. It helps you with things like meta titles, meta descriptions, creating XML sitemaps, and managing canonical URLs. Many users, even on Reddit, appreciate it for these core functions, often noting they use the free version for these essentials.
• Readability Analysis: It offers a readability checker that helps you make your content easier for people to read, which is indirectly good for SEO.
• User-Friendly: It’s generally easy to use, even if you’re new to SEO, with clear guidance.

Where it falls short or what users say:

• Green Light Obsession: One common criticism you’ll see on Reddit is that people get too hung up on getting all the “green lights” in Yoast’s scoring system. As one Redditor pointed out, a green light in Yoast doesn’t automatically mean “good SEO,” and a perfect score in some tools doesn’t guarantee top rankings. It’s a checklist, not a guarantee.
• Limited Advanced Features: While the premium version offers more, the free version provides basic keyword suggestions but lacks the in-depth keyword research and competitor analysis that more specialized tools offer.
• Content Changes: Some users find its suggestions for content optimization can be restrictive or lead to awkward phrasing if followed too rigidly.

Overall, Yoast is excellent for establishing a solid SEO foundation on WordPress, especially for beginners or those who need help with technical elements and on-page optimization.

Surfer SEO: Is the Hype Real, and Is It Worth It?

Surfer SEO is a different kind of beast. It’s all about content optimization, often with a data-driven approach. Questions like “is surfer seo worth it reddit” often pop up from people looking to seriously level up their content. How to Do YouTube Video SEO: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Found

• Data-Driven Content Optimization: Surfer SEO analyzes top-ranking pages for your target keywords and gives you recommendations based on that real-time data. It tells you what keywords to use, how often, and even suggests optimal content length. This is great for creating content that aligns with what Google already favors.

• Competitor Analysis: It provides robust competitor analysis, allowing you to benchmark your content against what’s already performing well.

• Keyword Research & Clustering: Surfer SEO offers powerful keyword research capabilities, including keyword clustering and detailed search volume data, which Yoast doesn’t match.

• AI Text Generation: Users report Surfer’s AI text generation features are more advanced than some competitors, which can be useful for content creation.

• Steeper Learning Curve: While not requiring advanced coding, using Surfer SEO effectively does require some basic to intermediate understanding of SEO concepts like keyword density and SERP analysis. The Tragic End of an Underdog: Unpacking Jang Han-seo’s Death in Vincenzo

• Content Focus vs. Technical: It focuses almost entirely on content optimization. While it shows competitor technical metrics, it doesn’t directly manage your website’s technical SEO infrastructure like Yoast does.

• Cost: Surfer SEO is generally a more premium tool, and its pricing might be a barrier for some small businesses or individuals compared to Yoast’s free version.

Many professionals combine both tools, using Yoast for the technical WordPress foundation and Surfer for in-depth content optimization.

Learning SEO: Is It Worth Your Time and Effort?

If you’re asking “is learning seo worth it reddit” or “is learning seo hard reddit,” you’re tapping into a common concern. Learning SEO definitely takes time and effort, but the consensus is overwhelmingly that it is worth it. The demand for “SEO courses” increased by 654% between January 2016 and January 2023, showing a huge interest in learning these skills. How to Use SEO for YouTube: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Seen

Why it’s worth it:

• Empowerment for Your Business: If you run a business, understanding SEO means you’re not entirely dependent on agencies. You can make informed decisions, or even handle a lot of the basics yourself, saving money and gaining control.
• Valuable Career Skill: As discussed earlier, SEO is a thriving career path with a continuous need for skilled professionals. If you’re looking to boost your career or switch fields, learning SEO is a smart move.
• Adaptability: The principles of how search engines work often remain consistent even as algorithms change. Learning the fundamentals gives you a solid base to adapt to new trends.
• Cost Savings: For personal projects or small businesses, doing your own SEO can save you a lot of money that you’d otherwise pay to an agency.

Is it hard?

Reddit discussions on “is learning seo hard reddit” suggest it’s not inherently “hard” in the sense of complex coding, but it does require:

• Patience: SEO results don’t happen overnight. You need to be patient and persistent.
• Analytical Thinking: You’ll be dealing with data, analyzing trends, and figuring out what’s working and what’s not.
• Continuous Learning: The SEO world changes fast. You need to be willing to keep learning and stay updated with new algorithm shifts and AI advancements.
• Creativity: Especially in content creation and link building, a creative approach helps a lot.

So, while it’s a commitment, the benefits of learning SEO, both for personal projects and professional growth, far outweigh the challenges.

How do i check my seo score on google

SEO Platforms: What About Wix for SEO?

When it comes to choosing a platform for your website, the question “is wix good for seo reddit” pops up quite a bit. Historically, Wix has sometimes gotten a bad rap for SEO compared to platforms like WordPress. However, Wix has made significant improvements over the years.

The Reddit/General Sentiment:

• Past Concerns: Older discussions might highlight issues like less control over technical elements, slower site speeds, or clunky URL structures. These were valid concerns in the past.
• Current Reality: Wix has invested heavily in its SEO capabilities. You can now customize meta tags, create 301 redirects, generate XML sitemaps, and integrate with Google Analytics and Search Console. They’ve also worked on improving site speed and mobile responsiveness. As of March 2025, 63.31% of all web traffic comes from mobile devices, so mobile optimization is definitely key.

Pros for Wix SEO:

• Ease of Use: For beginners or small businesses that need a website up quickly without much technical hassle, Wix is incredibly user-friendly. Its drag-and-drop interface simplifies website creation.
• Built-in Tools: Wix provides its own SEO Wizard and basic tools to guide you through optimization steps.

Cons for Wix SEO compared to more robust platforms:

• Limited Customization: While improved, Wix still offers less deep-level customization compared to open-source platforms like WordPress especially with highly specialized plugins. If you need very advanced technical SEO tweaks or intricate data connections, you might hit some limitations.
• Scalability for Complex SEO: For very large websites with complex architectures or intense, highly competitive SEO needs, WordPress often offers more flexibility and power through its vast ecosystem of plugins and developer control.

For many small to medium-sized businesses, Wix can be perfectly adequate for SEO, especially if ease of use and quick setup are priorities. If you’re running a massive e-commerce store or a highly complex content platform, other options might offer more granular control. How to Optimize YouTube Videos for SEO: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Seen

The Ever-Evolving Nature of SEO: Is It Still Relevant?

With all the changes, from Google’s algorithm updates to the rise of AI, it’s natural to wonder, “is seo still worth it reddit” or “is seo worth it anymore.” The simple answer is that SEO is not only still relevant but arguably more crucial than ever.

• Organic Search Dominates Traffic: Over 53% of all website traffic comes from organic search, making it the top driver of web traffic. This alone tells you how vital SEO remains.
• AI Integration, Not Replacement: While AI is changing search e.g., AI Overviews appearing in searches, it’s not replacing the need for good SEO. Instead, SEO professionals are adapting by optimizing for new search behaviors, generating better content with AI tools, and focusing on unique value that stands out. The industry is even seeing new roles like AI-Driven SEO Strategists.
• User Intent is Key: Search engines are getting smarter at understanding what users really mean when they type a query. SEO now involves a deeper understanding of user intent and providing comprehensive, valuable answers, not just keyword stuffing.
• Technical Foundations Remain: Core aspects like site speed, mobile-friendliness, and a strong backlink profile continue to be fundamental ranking factors. Approximately 41% of SEOs believe content marketing is the most effective method for achieving long-term, passive link-building results.

So, SEO isn’t going anywhere. It’s just . Those who stay on top of the trends, continue to learn, and adapt their strategies will keep seeing great results.

Common SEO Misconceptions and What Reddit Gets Right/Wrong

Reddit threads are fantastic for raw, unfiltered opinions, but they can also be hotbeds for misconceptions. Unlocking Your Website’s Potential: A Guide to Using Semrush On-Page SEO Checker

Common Misconceptions often debunked on Reddit, or by knowledgeable users:

• “SEO is a one-time thing”: Some believe you do SEO once, and you’re done. The reality is it’s an ongoing process. You need to continuously monitor, adapt, and update your strategies.
• “Keyword stuffing works”: Trying to cram as many keywords as possible into your content is an old, harmful tactic. Modern SEO is about natural language and providing value.
• “Any link is a good link”: Not true. Low-quality or spammy backlinks can hurt your rankings. Quality over quantity is key when it comes to link building. Around 95% of all pages have zero backlinks, highlighting the challenge and value of good link building.
• “Green lights in Yoast mean perfect SEO”: As discussed, Yoast’s lights are indicators, not a guarantee of top rankings.
• “SEO is dead because of AI/ChatGPT”: This is a persistent myth. AI is a tool, and search engines are , but the core need for discoverability and quality content remains.

What Reddit often gets right:

• The importance of real value: Many Redditors emphasize that genuinely helpful, well-written content is paramount. Tools can help, but they can’t make bad content good.
• Community learning: Reddit is a great place to ask specific questions, get diverse opinions, and learn from others’ experiences, both good and bad.
• Critiques of tools: Users often give honest, critical feedback on SEO tools, helping others make informed decisions.
• The long game: Many seasoned SEOs on Reddit will stress that SEO is a marathon, not a sprint.

Ultimately, while Reddit can offer great insights and real-world experiences, always cross-reference information with reputable SEO resources and official guidelines from search engines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SEO still relevant with the rise of AI in search?

Yes, absolutely! SEO is more relevant than ever, but it’s . While AI Overviews and other AI-powered search features are changing how users interact with search results, the fundamental need for websites to be discoverable and provide valuable content remains. SEO professionals are now adapting by using AI tools to improve their strategies, focusing on user intent, and creating high-quality, comprehensive content that stands out in an AI-influenced search environment. Unlock TikTok’s Potential: Your Ultimate Guide to TikTok SEO

How long does it typically take to see results from SEO efforts?

Seeing significant results from SEO can take time, usually several months. While some minor improvements might be visible within weeks, major changes in rankings and organic traffic often require 6 to 12 months, sometimes longer for highly competitive niches. It’s a long-term investment that compounds over time, not a quick fix. Consistent effort in content creation, technical optimization, and link building is key to sustained success.

Is SEO a good career choice in 2025?

Yes, SEO remains a good career choice, but the is changing. There’s a strong demand for professionals with skills in technical SEO, data analytics, and user experience, and those who can leverage AI tools are particularly sought after. While some mid-level salaries saw adjustments in 2024, senior roles continue to offer high earning potential. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are crucial for career growth in this dynamic field.

What are the main differences between Yoast SEO and Surfer SEO?

Yoast SEO is primarily a WordPress plugin that excels at foundational and technical on-page SEO, helping with meta tags, sitemaps, and readability analysis. It’s user-friendly and great for establishing basic SEO best practices. Surfer SEO, on the other hand, is a data-driven content optimization tool that analyzes top-ranking content for specific keywords and provides recommendations for content length, keyword usage, and structure. It’s more advanced for content creation and competitor analysis. Many professionals use both tools together, with Yoast handling technical SEO and Surfer optimizing content.

Can a website built on Wix perform well with SEO?

Yes, a website built on Wix can perform well with SEO. While Wix historically faced some criticism regarding SEO capabilities, the platform has made significant improvements, offering features for customizing meta tags, creating redirects, generating sitemaps, and integrating with Google Analytics. For many small to medium-sized businesses, Wix provides sufficient SEO tools and ease of use. However, for highly complex or very large websites requiring deep technical customization, other platforms like WordPress might offer more granular control and flexibility.

Do I need to pay for premium SEO tools to get good results?

No, you don’t always need to pay for premium SEO tools to get good results, especially when you’re starting out. Many free tools, like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and the free version of Yoast SEO, provide essential functionalities for basic optimization. You can achieve significant improvements through high-quality content, good site structure, and thoughtful keyword research without a hefty investment. However, premium tools like Surfer SEO or SEMrush can offer more in-depth data, advanced analysis, and efficiency for more competitive niches or larger-scale operations, potentially accelerating your results.

SEO Digital Marketing Definition: Your Essential Guide to Online Visibility

How important is mobile optimization for SEO in 2025?

Mobile optimization is incredibly important for SEO in 2025. With over 63% of all web traffic coming from mobile devices as of March 2025, ensuring your website is mobile-friendly is no longer optional. it’s a necessity. Google heavily favors mobile-responsive sites, and mobile-first indexing means the mobile version of your site is what Google primarily uses for ranking. Poor mobile experience can lead to higher bounce rates and negatively impact your search rankings.