Keyword difficulty
Keyword difficulty (KD) is a 0–100 score estimating how hard it is for a new page to rank on Google's first page for a search term.
KD is computed by tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush and Moz based on the backlink profiles of the top 10 rankers. Each uses its own formula: SEMrush counts referring domains + traffic; Ahrefs focuses on DR and unique linking domains in the top 10. Always read KD alongside a SERP analysis — raw KD can mislead in brand-dominated SERPs.
Example
'SEO agency breda' has KD 18 but only local competitors with DA 25 appear on top in SEMrush. A new site with DA 30 and solid on-page SEO can rank within 3 months.
Frequently asked questions
Which KD is achievable?
Rule of thumb: target KD below your Domain Rating. New site (DR 0–10): KD <10. Growing (DR 30): KD <30. Authority (DR 60+): everything open.
Do KD scores vary across tools?
Considerably. Ahrefs KD 40 can be SEMrush 28. Use one tool consistently for prioritisation. SERP analysis matters more than any score.
Related terms
Further reading
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