How to Use Google Trends for Finding Low Competition Keywords

Want to rank higher without battling high-competition keywords? You can locate trending search terms with less SEO competition by following this advice on using Google Trends to find low competition keywords. Learn step-by-step tactics to boost your blog traffic and stay ahead in content planning using Google’s free tool.

Introduction

Want more traffic without fighting the SEO giants? The secret might be simpler than you think—Google Trends.

Whether you’re a new blogger or a seasoned marketer, understanding how to use Google Trends for finding low competition keywords can give you a real edge.

Think of it like a compass for content—it shows you where interest is growing, where it’s dying, and where your next SEO opportunity lies.

What is Google Trends?

Overview of the Tool

Google offers a free tool called Google Trends that displays the frequency with which a specific keyword is typed into Google’s search engine over time.

It doesn’t show exact search volume—but it gives you search interest on a scale of 0–100.

Real-Time vs Historical Data

Want to know what’s trending now? Use the real-time filter.
Looking for consistent performers over the last 5 years? Use historical trends to spot evergreen content ideas.

Why Use Google Trends for SEO?

Understand Keyword Popularity Over Time
Unlike regular keyword tools, Google Trends shows you how interest in a keyword changes.
This helps avoid keywords that were hot a year ago but are dying today.

Spot Emerging Trends Early
Jump on a new keyword before your competitors even notice. Trends helps you be first to market.

Align Content with Current Interests
Why write about outdated topics when you can ride the wave of what’s hot right now?

How Google Trends Measures Search Interest

Interpreting the Interest Scale (0–100)
100 = peak popularity. 50 = half that. 0 = not enough data.
Use this to compare terms or watch how one keyword rises over time.

Geographic Interest
You can filter results by country, state, or even city—perfect for local SEO campaigns.

Time-Based Comparisons
Choose:

Past 7 days
Past 30 days
Past 12 months
Last 5 years

Each view gives a different insight.

Step-by-Step: Using Google Trends to Find Low Competition Keywords

1. Start with a Broad Topic
Let’s say your niche is “gardening.” Type it in and hit search.

2. Narrow Down Using Related Queries
Scroll to the related queries section. Look for rising or breakout terms.

3. Compare Multiple Search Terms
Use the comparison tool to see which variation has a steadier or growing interest.
Example: “indoor gardening” vs. “balcony gardening.”

4. Look for Rising Keywords
These are the keywords gaining momentum fast—often low competition because others haven’t caught on yet.

Use Filters to Find the Right Opportunities

Location Filter
Target terms popular in your local region.

Time Range
Want to find evergreen topics? Use the last 5 years view. Want trending terms? Use past 7 days.

Categories and Search Types
Refine by category like:

Health
Finance
Beauty

And search type like:

Web Search
YouTube Search
News Search

Combine Google Trends with Keyword Tools

Google Keyword Planner
Once you find a trending keyword, check its volume and competition in Keyword Planner.

Ubersuggest / SEMrush
Use these tools to confirm keyword difficulty, CPC, and ranking potential.

Match Trends with Data
Just because a keyword is trending doesn’t mean it’s valuable. Cross-check everything.

Target Seasonal Keywords

Identify Trends by Month or Season
Example: “Halloween makeup” spikes every October.

Plan Content Ahead of Demand
Write and publish before the spike hits. Google takes time to rank your page.

Find Local Search Trends

Regional Keyword Insights
If you’re a local business, use Google Trends to tailor your keywords by state or city.
Example: “snow removal services” may trend earlier in Minnesota than in Georgia.

Optimize for Local SEO
Use regional phrases in titles, meta, and headings.

Discover Niche and Long-Tail Keywords

How Trends Reveals Hidden Gems
“Breakout” terms are often long-tail and low competition.

Use Question-Based Queries
Example: “how to grow aloe vera in pots” is a trending long-tail question with low competition.

Spot and Avoid Declining Topics

Warning Signs of Keyword Drop-Off
If a term shows a steady decline—skip it.

Keep Content Fresh and Updated
Update or remove pages that target declining terms.

Create Content Based on Rising Trends

Leverage “Breakout” Keywords
These terms are exploding in popularity—get in early!

Be First to Publish
Publishing early helps you rank first and gain authority.

Google Trends for YouTube and E-Commerce SEO

Video Content Planning
Check YouTube trends to align your content calendar.
Example: “back to school supplies haul” in August.

Product Keywords for Sales Seasons
“Best laptops for students” will trend during back-to-school shopping. Prepare product pages early.

Also Read
The SEO Value of Regular Keyword Gap Analysis

Tips for Interpreting Google Trends Accurately

Don’t Confuse Interest with Volume
100 doesn’t mean 100K searches—it means peak relative interest.

Watch for Short-Lived Spikes
Some trends die fast—don’t base your whole strategy on one viral keyword.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Search Intent
Trends shows you popularity, not purpose. Always consider the why behind the search.

Choosing Keywords Without Checking Difficulty
Trending doesn’t mean easy. Verify with other tools.

Conclusion

Google Trends is more than just a trend checker—it’s a keyword strategy tool in disguise. It helps you find fresh, low competition keywords, spot rising opportunities, and stay ahead of your competitors. Whether you’re targeting a niche blog or building e-commerce content, Google Trends should be your new SEO sidekick.