How does page load speed influence SEO?

Fast loading pages enhance user experience, which is a critical factor for SEO. When websites load quickly, visitors are more likely to stay on the site, engage with the content, and complete desired actions such as making a purchase or filling out a form. A positive user experience correlates with lower bounce rates and higher engagement metrics, which can ultimately signal to search engines that the site is valuable and relevant.

Search engines, particularly Google, consider page load speed a ranking factor. This means that sites that provide a quicker, smoother experience are more likely to rank higher in search results. Additionally, with the growing trend of mobile browsing, fast loading speeds become even more essential, as mobile users often expect swift access to information. Thus, prioritizing page load speed is crucial for maintaining both user satisfaction and strong SEO performance.