How to Find Long Tail Keywords with Low Competition (2025 Guide)
If you’re new to SEO, you’ve probably heard about the power of long-tail keywords. But the big question is: How to find long tail keywords with low competition? These niche phrases may not get as many searches as broad keywords like “SEO” or “marketing,” but they often bring in more qualified traffic and are easier to rank for.
Think of it this way: targeting broad keywords is like fishing in the ocean; you’re competing with massive ships and professional fleets. Targeting long-tail keywords is like fishing in a quiet lake; you may not catch hundreds of fish at once, but the chances of catching exactly what you want are much higher.
In today’s crowded digital world, long-tail keyword research is one of the most effective ways to get discovered by the right audience. Instead of fighting for visibility on ultra-competitive keywords dominated by large brands, you can carve out a space where your content ranks faster and reaches people who are already closer to taking action.
What Are Long Tail Keywords?
Long-tail keywords are search phrases that are more specific and usually longer than broad, high-volume terms.
For example:
- Short-tail keyword: “SEO tools”
- Long-tail keyword: “best SEO tools for small businesses in Kelowna”
Notice the difference? The short-tail term is vague. The long-tail term not only specifies the audience (small businesses) but also includes a local angle (Kelowna). That makes it far more likely to attract a person ready to buy, not just browse.
Long-tail keywords make up the majority of searches online. In fact, most users don’t type one- or two-word searches anymore; they type natural-sounding questions and detailed phrases.
Why Target Low-Competition Keywords?
So why spend your time hunting down low-competition long-tail keywords? Here are the main reasons:
- Easier to Rank For
Search engines look at many factors before deciding who ranks first. Large corporations dominate broad terms like “SEO” or “insurance.” With long-tail keywords, you don’t need a giant budget or decades of authority; you just need targeted content. - Faster Visibility
Instead of waiting months or years to rank for broad keywords, low-competition long-tail phrases can get you on page one faster. This is especially useful for newer websites trying to build momentum. - Higher Conversion Rates
Someone searching “cheap SEO” may just be browsing. But someone searching “affordable SEO services for dentists in Kelowna” likely has a specific need and is closer to making a purchase. - Supports SEO Growth
Every long-tail keyword you rank for adds to your domain’s authority. Over time, that authority helps you move up the ladder for tougher keywords too.
How to Find Long Tail Keywords with Low Competition
1. Use Google’s Autocomplete and Related Searches
Start with the simplest tool you already use daily: Google. As you type a word, the search engine fills in suggestions based on real queries from users.
For example, type “SEO Kelowna” and you might see:
- “SEO Kelowna small business”
- “affordable SEO services Kelowna”
- “Kelowna SEO expert reviews”
At the bottom of the page, “related searches” gives even more options. These are direct windows into what your target audience is typing every day.
2. Explore Keyword Research Tools
Tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, SEOScout, and Google Keyword Planner allow you to filter by search volume and difficulty.
When using these tools, look for:
- Low keyword difficulty (KD) – usually under 30 for newer sites.
- Steady search volume – even 50–200 monthly searches can be powerful if the intent is right.
- Clear intent – commercial, informational, or transactional.
Example: Instead of targeting “SEO services” (high KD, high volume), target “affordable SEO services for e-commerce stores” (lower KD, specific audience).
3. Check Forums, Communities, and Social Media
Real conversations often uncover hidden keyword gems. Platforms like Reddit, Quora, and niche Facebook groups are goldmines.
Example: A Reddit user might ask, “What’s the best way for a local restaurant in Kelowna to rank on Google?” That question translates into a keyword like “local SEO strategy for restaurants in Kelowna.”
These keywords often have little to no competition because they’re so specific.
4. Analyze Competitors’ Content
Look at who’s already ranking on page one for your niche. If small blogs or low-authority sites are ranking, that’s a sign of low competition.
With Ahrefs’ Content Gap feature, you can see which keywords competitors rank for that you don’t. This lets you uncover “low-hanging fruit” keywords to target in your own content.
5. Focus on Long-Tail Modifiers
Modifiers are words you add to a base keyword to make it more specific. These include:
- Best (best SEO agency in Kelowna)
- Cheap/affordable (affordable SEO for startups)
- For [audience] (SEO for dentists)
- Near me (SEO companies near me)
- Reviews (SEO agency reviews in Kelowna)
Each modifier narrows the search intent and reduces competition while increasing relevance.
6. Look at “People Also Ask” Boxes
The People Also Ask (PAA) box on Google shows real questions related to your query. Each question is essentially a long-tail keyword.
For example, searching “local SEO Kelowna” may bring up:
- “How do I find the best SEO agency near me?”
- “Is SEO worth it for small businesses?”
By answering these questions in your content, you target multiple long-tail queries in one go.
7. Track Trends with Google Trends
Google Trends helps you spot new search patterns. For example, if you notice a spike in searches for “AI SEO tools in Canada”, you can create content targeting that term before it gets too competitive.
This proactive approach can help you “own” a keyword early.
Keyword Competition vs. Search Volume Balance
It’s important to balance competition and volume. Chasing only low-competition keywords won’t help if no one is searching for them. On the other hand, chasing only high-volume terms will leave you stuck behind big brands.
Here’s a simple way to balance:
- Low competition + decent volume (50–500 searches/month) → Best short-term wins.
- High competition + high volume → Long-term goals.
- Low competition + low volume → Good for niche authority-building.
Common Mistakes in Long Tail Keyword Research
- Focusing only on traffic – Traffic means little without conversions.
- Ignoring search intent – A keyword must match why the person is searching.
- Keyword stuffing – Overloading a page with a keyword hurts rankings.
- Not updating research – SEO trends shift. Refresh your keyword lists every 3–6 months.
Example: Local SEO and Long-Tail Keywords in Kelowna
Imagine you run a digital marketing agency in Kelowna. Competing for “SEO services” is nearly impossible against global agencies.
But targeting long-tail keywords like:
- “affordable SEO services in Kelowna for small businesses”
- “Kelowna SEO agency specializing in real estate websites”
- “best SEO consultant in Kelowna for startups”
lets you connect directly with people who are ready to hire. Instead of chasing broad traffic, you attract clients who already want your exact service.
Sample Comparison Table: Long Tail vs Short Tail
| Keyword Type | Example | Search Volume | Competition | Conversion Potential |
| Short-tail | SEO services | 50,000+ | Very High | Low |
| Long-tail | affordable SEO services in Kelowna | 150 | Low | High |
| Long-tail | Best SEO tools for bloggers in Canada | 200 | Medium | High |
This table shows why long-tail keywords often deliver a better ROI.
Final Thoughts
So, how to find long tail keywords with low competition? The secret lies in understanding your audience’s intent and using a mix of tools, observations, and smart strategy. By leveraging Google’s suggestions, PAA boxes, forums, competitor analysis, and dedicated keyword research platforms, you can uncover search terms that are both achievable and valuable.
When done consistently, long-tail keyword research can transform your SEO strategy. It helps you rank faster, attract the right people, and build a foundation for long-term success.
Looking to unlock the full potential of long-tail keyword research? Click Typhoon’s Kelowna SEO services specializes in identifying low-competition, high-converting keywords that put your business ahead of the competition. Contact us today for a customized SEO strategy that drives results and helps your business grow.
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