Does Structured Data Help Your Website Rank Higher? Google Says No
In the ever-changing world of SEO, myths and misconceptions spread quickly. One of the biggest misunderstandings is that structured data (like Schema markup) helps websites rank higher in Google Search.
Recently, Google’s John Mueller settled this debate once and for all. In a discussion on Bluesky, he made it clear:
“Structured data won’t make your site rank better.”
This statement has major implications for SEO professionals, marketers, and website owners who invest time and resources into structured data, hoping for a ranking boost.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down:
- What structured data really does
- Why it doesn’t affect rankings
- How to use it correctly for maximum SEO benefits
- Common myths debunked
What Is Structured Data? (And Why People Get Confused)
Definition of Structured Data
Structured data is a standardized format (using Schema.org vocabulary) that helps search engines like Google understand the content on your website.
It uses special HTML tags to label different types of information, such as:
- Product details (price, reviews, availability)
- Events (date, location, ticket info)
- Recipes (cooking time, ingredients, ratings)
- Articles (author, publish date, headline)
Why Do People Think It Helps with Rankings?
Many SEOs believe that because structured data improves how content appears in search results (through rich snippets), it must also help rankings.
However, Google has repeatedly confirmed that structured data is only for enhanced display features, not ranking algorithms.
Also Read: YouTube Reveals Expert Tips for Creating Engaging Shorts
Google’s Official Stance Structured Data Is Not a Ranking Factor
John Mueller’s Exact Words
In a Bluesky thread, Mueller stated:
“Structured data won’t make your site rank better. It’s used for displaying the search features listed in developers.google.com/search/docs. Use it if your pages map to & are appropriate for any of those features.”
This means:
Helps with rich results (like FAQs, reviews, events)
Does not influence rankings directly
Google’s Documentation Supports This
Google’s Search Essentials (formerly Webmaster Guidelines) clearly state that structured data is for:
- Rich snippets
- Knowledge panels
- Other enhanced search features
But nowhere does Google say it affects rankings.
How Structured Data Actually Works in Search
What Structured Data Can Do
- Enables Rich Results
- Star ratings
- FAQ snippets
- Recipe cards
- Event listings
- Improves Click-Through Rates (CTR)
- More eye-catching search listings = more clicks
- Helps Google Understand Your Content Better
- Clearer context for AI and algorithms
What Structured Data Cannot Do
- Boost rankings (Google ranks based on relevance, authority, and user experience)
- Replace good SEO practices (quality content, backlinks, site speed)
- Work if Google doesn’t support it (out of 800+ Schema types, Google only uses ~30)
Why Do SEOs Still Believe Structured Data Helps Rankings?
Myth #1 – “Rich Results Must Mean Higher Rankings”
Some assume that because rich snippets get more clicks, Google must rank them higher.
Reality:
- CTR can indirectly help rankings (if users engage more)
- But structured data itself is not a ranking signal
Myth #2 – “More Markup = Better SEO”
Adding every possible Schema type won’t help if Google ignores it.
Reality:
Only use supported structured data (check Google’s Rich Results Guide).
Myth #3 – “Structured Data Is a Quick SEO Fix”
Some think slapping on Schema markup will magically improve rankings.
Reality:
SEO requires high-quality content, backlinks, and technical optimization structured data is just one small piece.
How to Use Google Structured Data Correctly for SEO
Step 1 – Check Which Types Google Supports
Google only uses ~30 Schema types for rich results. Examples:
- Article
- Breadcrumb
- Product
- Review
- FAQ
Don’t waste time on unsupported types.
Step 2 – Implement Only What’s Relevant
- If you sell products → Product markup
- If you publish news → Article markup
- If you host events → Event markup
Step 3 – Validate Your Markup
Use Google’s Rich Results Test Tool to check for errors:
🔗 https://search.google.com/test/rich-results
Step 4 – Monitor Performance in Search Console
Check Search Appearance > Enhancements to see if Google uses your structured data.
What Actually Helps Your Site Rank Higher?
Since structured data doesn’t boost rankings, focus on proven ranking factors:
1. High-Quality Content
- Original, useful, well-researched content ranks best.
- Follow EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
2. Strong Backlink Profile
- Authoritative sites linking to you = ranking boost.
3. Technical SEO
- Fast loading speed
- Mobile-friendly design
- Secure (HTTPS) site
4. User Experience (UX)
- Low bounce rate
- Easy navigation
- Engaging content
Common Questions About Structured Data & SEO
Q1. Does structured data help at all?
Yes, but only for rich results not rankings.
Q2. Should I still use Schema markup?
Yes, if you want rich snippets (which can improve CTR).
Q3. Can bad structured data hurt my site?
Only if it’s spammy or incorrect (Google may ignore it).
Q4. What’s the best way to add structured data?
- JSON-LD (recommended by Google)
- Plugins like Rank Math, Yoast, or Schema Pro
Final Verdict Should You Use Structured Data?
DO use structured data if:
- You want rich snippets (FAQs, reviews, events)
- Your content matches Google’s supported types
DON’T use Google Structured Data if:
- You think it’ll magically boost rankings
- You’re adding irrelevant markup
Key Takeaway
Google Structured Data is a helpful SEO tool, but not a ranking factor. Focus on great content + technical SEO first, then use Schema markup for extra visibility.
Need Help with SEO? Focus on What Really Matters
Instead of obsessing over structured data, invest time in:
✔ High-quality content
✔ Authoritative backlinks
✔ Fast, user-friendly website
By following Google’s guidelines, you’ll see real ranking improvements without relying on myths.
