John Mueller Discusses Top CMS Options for SEO Success

28/10/2025

When it comes to choosing a content management system (CMS) for your website, many factors come into play, particularly if you're aiming for optimal search engine optimization (SEO). With so many options available today, it can be overwhelming to determine what truly matters for enhancing your site's visibility on search engines like Google. Let's dive into the insights provided by John Mueller of Google, who sheds light on the relationship between CMS and SEO.

Content Index

Are modern CMS platforms effective for SEO?
Understanding SEO best practices
John Mueller's insights on CMS usage statistics
Why choose a specific CMS?
Is Google SEO still worth it?

Are modern CMS platforms effective for SEO?

According to John Mueller, a prominent figure at Google, modern CMS platforms are generally effective for SEO. He emphasizes that there are no significant differences between leading CMS options in terms of their capacity to rank well on Google Search. This perspective is crucial for website owners who may be torn between various CMS choices.

Mueller pointed out that the evolution of CMS platforms has brought them to a stage where they all produce crawlable HTML, which is essential for search engine indexing. This means that whether you choose WordPress, Wix, or another platform, the fundamental capabilities concerning SEO are largely the same.

He stated:

"What part of SEO would be different from any of these CMSs vs WP? They make HTML, it's crawlable."

This assertion highlights that the core functionality of generating search-friendly HTML has been standardized across most mainstream CMSs, making it easier for users to focus on content quality rather than the technical aspects of the platform.

Understanding SEO best practices

When considering SEO, it's essential to adhere to Google’s best practices. Some of these best practices include:

Quality Content: Ensure that your content is original, informative, and addresses the needs of your audience.
Mobile Optimization: Make sure your site is mobile-friendly, as a significant portion of web traffic comes from mobile devices.
Page Load Speed: Fast-loading pages enhance user experience and are favored by search engines.
Descriptive Titles and Meta Descriptions: Use relevant keywords in your titles and meta descriptions to improve click-through rates.
Secure your site: Implement HTTPS to secure user data and gain trust from both users and search engines.

These practices remain critical for any website, regardless of the CMS you choose. They help in creating a strong foundation for search engine visibility.

John Mueller's insights on CMS usage statistics

In his discussions, Mueller provided valuable statistical insights regarding CMS usage. He referenced data from the web almanac, noting that:

51% of all websites utilize a CMS.
Only 8% of the top 1,000 websites use a CMS.
WordPress holds a market share of over 35%, while platforms like Wix account for just 2.8%.

This information indicates that while a large number of websites run on CMS platforms, the most successful sites often opt for custom solutions or static sites. However, Mueller reassured users that high rankings are achievable without being among the top 1,000 websites.

Why choose a specific CMS?

While many CMS platforms might perform similarly in terms of SEO, there are specific reasons why one might choose a particular system over another:

Ease of Use: Some CMSs offer user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible for non-technical users.
Plugins and Extensions: The availability of plugins can enhance functionality without requiring custom coding.
Community Support: Popular CMSs often have large communities that provide support and resources.
Customization Options: Depending on your needs, certain CMSs may offer better customization capabilities.

Ultimately, the CMS you choose should align with your specific business needs, technical skills, and the kind of content you intend to produce.

Is Google SEO still worth it?

Many wonder whether investing time and resources into SEO is still worthwhile in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Mueller's insights suggest that the answer is a resounding yes. SEO continues to be a crucial aspect of online visibility and traffic generation.

Despite the challenges posed by algorithm updates and changing user behaviors, effective SEO strategies can lead to significant benefits:

Increased Organic Traffic: A well-optimized site attracts more visitors through search engines.
Cost-Effective Marketing: SEO can provide a higher return on investment compared to paid advertising.
Brand Credibility: High rankings on Google can enhance your brand's credibility in your niche.
Long-Term Results: While it may take time to see results, effective SEO can yield long-lasting benefits.

In conclusion, SEO remains a vital strategy for businesses looking to thrive online, and choosing the right CMS can support these efforts effectively.

If you want to explore more stories like John Mueller Discusses Top CMS Options for SEO Success, you can browse the SEO section.

James Wirral

I am James Wirral, an SEO and SEM specialist for all major search engines, and my story began not in an office but behind the counter of my family's small bookshop. Watching local customers discover the titles they needed made me realise how powerful the right words and the right place could be. I taught myself the mechanics of search — from technical audits and schema to user intent and paid media — often late into the night, turning curiosity into craft. Over the years I have guided independent businesses and growing brands to consistent, measurable success, delivering double-digit organic growth and improving return on ad spend through honest, data-driven strategies. My work is grounded in evidence: careful testing, transparent reporting and a focus on long-term value rather than short-term tricks.What drives me is people. I remember a bakery owner who regained her customer base after a local search optimisation we carried out together, and a charity that reached donors they never knew existed thanks to a refocused content strategy. Those outcomes taught me that technical skills matter, but empathy and integrity make the difference. I publish practical guides, speak at industry events and mentor junior marketers so knowledge spreads beyond one campaign. Above all, I treat SEO and SEM as a promise to users and clients alike: to respect privacy, to prioritise relevance, and to build sustainable visibility that helps real people find what they need.