How Many H1 Tags Per Page for SEO?

TL;DR: Use one clear H1 that states the page’s main topic; Google can handle multiple H1s, but a single, focused H1 with well-structured H2/H3s is best for clarity and accessibility
(Google’s guidance).

• Map your H1 to the primary intent/keyword.
• Use H2/H3 to organise subtopics logically.
• Write headings for humans; keep them descriptive.

When you’re optimising pages for organic search, it’s easy to get lost in “200 ranking factors.” The smart move is to focus on the few that move the needle. Your H1 tag—the main on-page heading—sets reader expectations and helps search engines understand the topic quickly.

What is an H1 tag and why does it matter?

An H1 is the primary heading of a page. It anchors your content’s topic and improves scannability for readers and assistive technologies. A good H1 sets context; clear subheadings (H2–H3) then break the topic into digestible sections.

So… how many H1 tags should a page have?

Best practice: one H1 per page. Google’s John Mueller has said that multiple H1s won’t hurt rankings, but headings are primarily for structure and accessibility—not for “extra ranking power.” If one main idea drives the page, use one H1 and reserve H2/H3 for supporting sections.
See Ask Google Webmasters and the
SEO Starter Guide recommendations on clear headings.

Do H1 tags still help SEO in 2025?

Yes—used correctly. Google can understand page topics without an H1, but a strong, descriptive H1 improves clarity for users and can help search engines interpret the page structure and intent more reliably
(Google Search Central).

Is it ever OK to use multiple H1s?

Technically fine in HTML5 and not a ranking penalty, but usually unnecessary. Multiple H1s can create ambiguity for screen reader users and dilute hierarchy. Default to one H1 unless you have a strong, accessibility-led reason. As Google notes, headings help users and engines understand sections—use them for structure rather than “signals.”
Source.

Practical checklist for H1s & headings

• Match the H1 to the search intent and primary keyword naturally.
• Keep H1 concise (typically 40–70 characters) and unique per page.
• Use question-style H2s that mirror what users ask.
• Ensure a logical outline: H1 → H2 → H3; don’t skip levels for styling.
• Use CSS for size/weight; don’t misuse H1 for visual effect.

FAQs

Can sidebars or modals have H1s?

Prefer H2–H3 in secondary areas. Keep the document’s main H1 unique to the page’s primary topic.

Does the H1 need the exact keyword?

No. Make it descriptive and aligned with intent; exact-match is optional.

What if the CMS outputs two H1s by default?

Change the theme/template so only the main title is H1; demote the other to H2.

Key takeaways

• One page, one H1—clear, descriptive, intent-matched.
• Structure content with H2/H3; avoid using headings just for styling.
• Support claims with primary sources from Google when in doubt.

Conclusion

The H1 isn’t “magic”—it’s a clarity tool. Keep one focused H1 and a logical heading hierarchy so users (and search engines) grasp your page instantly. If you’d like an expert review of your on-page structure,
send us a quick inquiry and we’ll recommend practical fixes.